New AI training programmes to address New Zealand's skills gap

The Institute of Data is launching new Data Science and AI training programmes in response to New Zealand's growing need for AI expertise. The new courses will commence on 8 April 2025.

Peter Harpur, CEO of the Institute of Data, emphasised that the rise of AI is reshaping job markets, requiring professionals with technical expertise to keep pace with evolving demands.

"The rise of AI is rapidly changing the skills employers are looking for. Through our Data Science and AI courses, the Institute of Data is developing a new cohort of tech talent to meet the ever-growing industry demand. Our graduates are empowered with AI skills to maximise their potential and enhance workplace productivity," Harpur said.

He warned that New Zealand risks lagging behind globally without immediate investment in AI education.

"New Zealand is already falling behind in the global race for AI talent, and the gap is only widening."

"The demand for AI professionals is skyrocketing with the advent of ChatGPT and other Large Language Models (LLMs) entering industry, yet our workforce lacks the necessary technical skills to keep up. We are acting now to equip our professionals with industry-ready AI expertise to meet industry demand," Harpur added.

The new training programmes are designed to ensure graduates are job-ready, with a focus on practical experience in machine learning and AI implementation. Participants will receive personalised career coaching and gain insights from industry experts.

The Institute of Data's curriculum is regularly updated by tech industry professionals worldwide, already incorporating content on generative AI tools and LLMs.

Graeme Muller, CEO of NZ Tech, stressed the importance of these programmes for New Zealand's workforce.

"AI is rapidly transforming industries across New Zealand, creating both opportunities and challenges for businesses. To stay competitive, organisations must ensure their workforce is equipped with the right skills to harness AI's potential. These new training programmes provide professionals with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to navigate and lead in an AI-driven world," Muller said.

Harpur believes that the Institute of Data's AI training programmes can help a variety of New Zealanders, including mid-career professionals, career changers, and aspiring young people looking to enter the tech sector.

"Our programmes are designed to help mid-career professionals, career changers, and aspiring young people to rapidly enter the high-demand technology industry. We provide practical industry skills training and job placement support," Harpur explained.

He added that established businesses are also enrolling their employees to upskill staff and enhance their organisation's AI capabilities.

"We are also seeing a surge of established businesses signing up their employees. It's an excellent way for employers to upskill staff and strategically position their organisations to fully leverage the benefits of AI," Harpur said.

A review released in September 2024 highlighted that 89% of graduates from the Institute of Data's job outcomes programme found employment within six months of completing their three-month full-time or six-month part-time courses in AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering.

"With AI adoption accelerating at a remarkable rate, businesses are needing skilled professionals who can harness its potential. Our new training programmes provide a timely solution, empowering individuals to future-proof their careers in just three to six months."

"We see this as a significant part of the solution towards upskilling New Zealanders with sought after tech skills and enabling our country to maintain its competitive edge in the global economy," Harpur concluded.