Adaptability: The Job Security of Tomorrow, According to EY's Innovation Lead

Joe Depa, the global chief innovation officer at EY, is forecasting that flexibility and the ability to adapt will emerge as essential traits for job security by 2026. As artificial intelligence reshapes many career fields, moving in harmony with technological advancements becomes crucial.

Embrace Continuous Learning

To navigate the fast-paced change, Depa emphasizes the importance of perpetual education. Whether through structured academia or self-directed exploration, staying informed is vital. He initiated a return to academia to acquire a Master's in Analytics from Georgia Tech, aiming to broaden his comprehension of software and data science to effectively lead his teams. Despite completing his degree recently, he notes the ever-evolving landscape of software development.

Depa urges a commitment to daily learning. Engaging with podcasts and staying updated via articles helps him keep abreast of the latest trends in AI. Following his example, Visa's Oliver Jenkyn dedicates four hours weekly to explore subjects like stablecoin technology and the history of semiconductors.

The Value of Mentorship

In addition to personal study, Depa stresses the significance of mentorship. Having advisors and mentors is crucial for gaining varied insights. EY's AI advisory council serves as a platform for Depa and others at the company to discuss upcoming developments with leading AI experts. This group provides feedback that helps shape strategies and tests new ideas.

Developing relationships where one can solicit advice informally is becoming increasingly important in the fast-changing professional landscape, according to Depa. Diverse opinions challenge conventional thinking and foster growth.

Deploying Acquired Knowledge

Learning is only fruitful when applied practically. Depa asserts the necessity of putting educational theories and mentor advice into practice, whether through coding or creating applications. Practical application hones mental skills and prepares individuals for future challenges.

Failures, as Depa acknowledges, are integral to experimenting with new tools and implementing innovative ideas. Embracing such risks cultivates a mindset geared towards continuous learning and intellectual development.

John Stecher, Blackstone's CTO, supports hands-on engagement with technology. He dedicates time each weekend to experimenting with tools like Claude for coding automation or developing document processing applications. Such practices make technological knowledge tangible and experiential.