AI boom exposes critical need for skilled tech professionals

Australia's artificial intelligence boom isn't making tech skills redundant - it is reinforcing how essential they have become. An RMIT expert explains the risk of people using AI without understanding the systems beneath it.

Dr Nick Patterson, Director of Future Technologies:

"Many AI models can now generate programming code and do a significant amount of the heavy lifting, but preventing 'AI slop' relies on an understanding of the software, systems, data and architecture.

"A growing number of quickly built apps are going live with basic mistakes that compromise security.

"Without understanding the technology and risks, people managing and generating content via AI models become exposed to hackers and other cybersecurity threats.

"Someone must catch those weaknesses before attackers do, and that still requires skilled professionals.

"AI is moving fast - and the future belongs to those who understand the technology well enough to lead it."

Nick Patterson is the Director of Future Technologies in RMIT's College of Vocational Education, where he leads major initiatives across AI, cybersecurity, Industry 4.0, engineering and digital skills.

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