Canada is falling behind in the race for AI jobs, despite their popularity

Postings with AI requirements are growing 3.5 times faster than all other jobs, according to a global study from PwC. The study examined over 500 million job ads from 15 countries and found that jobs requiring AI skills are on the rise, with a 25% salary premium in some markets.

The report also highlighted that jobs requiring AI specialist skills, such as machine learning, have grown sevenfold since 2012. Sectors where AI could be readily used are seeing 4.8 times the growth in labor productivity, which could benefit nations experiencing labor shortages and low productivity growth.

Carol Stubbings, global markets and tax and legal services leader with PwC U.K., emphasized the importance of building new skills and investing in AI strategies and people to ensure development in the AI age.

However, a report from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab found that Canadian businesses have been slow to adopt generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) into their operations, missing out on productivity improvements. The report suggests that Gen AI could boost Canada’s productivity by up to six percent, but only 14% of Canadian businesses are currently using it.

The report also highlighted the need for businesses to innovate and embrace Gen AI to stay competitive on a global scale. Government support in helping workers and ensuring risk-based regulations are in place can aid in the adoption of AI technologies.