AI could put people off tech jobs and hurt the economy, warns Raspberry Pi boss
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AI could put people off tech jobs and hurt the economy, warns Raspberry Pi boss
"“distort people's choices in ways that make that skill shortage worse and not better”. Some people are “very inclined to overestimate what these [AI] tools can do,” he said, and warned against claims that it would destroy vast numbers of computing roles over the coming years."
"“undo a lot of the good work that's been done, not just by Raspberry Pi, but by a lot of other organisations” in encouraging people into tech careers, Upton said. He added: “It's possible to get caught up in this. This is the risk of damage right in this moment of incredible enthusiasm for what are genuinely incredible tools.”"
"“You read in the paper: 'What guidance should you give your child about what GCSEs to choose in the context of an AI future?' We have no data to inform a rational decision on that. “The answer is: wait five years, wait 10 years, and then maybe we might know something.”"
"Asked if the phenomenon could damage economic growth, he added: “Absolutely. We need a supply of engineers.” Raspberry Pi's devices are the most widely sold computers by a UK firm and are popular with people who do programming as a hobby."
Overestimating what AI tools can do may distort people’s choices and worsen skill shortages. Claims that AI will destroy large numbers of computing roles can reduce interest in tech careers, undoing efforts to encourage people into programming and engineering. Predictions of major job losses have followed the rise of tools such as ChatGPT and Claude, and some companies have cited AI-related layoffs. Other experts argue AI can be used as a scapegoat for headcount reductions. Eben Upton warns that enthusiasm for powerful tools creates a risk of damage, including premature guidance about education choices. He recommends waiting for better evidence and emphasizes the need for a supply of engineers.
Read at www.bbc.com
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