Why Upskilling with AI is Essential as the Education System Fails to Keep Up

Introduction

The traditional education system is no longer fit for purpose. It was designed for an era that no longer exists—one where a degree guaranteed a stable job and a lifelong career. But the world has changed, and AI is transforming industries at an unprecedented pace. If you don’t adapt, you risk being left behind.

I saw this coming when I was in school (I'm 50 to give you some perspective!). As someone who is neurodivergent, the schooling system never worked for me. I struggled with its rigid, one-size-fits-all structure, and I thrived when I left university to learn in real-world environments. I watched friends graduate with degrees and mountains of debt, only to find they weren’t equipped for the job market. They had learnt theory, not practical skills.

That’s why I teach the way I do—through hands-on, step-by-step training tailored to individuals and businesses. You learn skills that are directly applicable, and by the time you finish, you’re confident and ready to implement what you’ve learnt immediately.

The Education System is Failing to Prepare Us for the Future

Daniel Priestley, in The Diary of a CEO podcast with Steven Bartlett, highlighted this exact problem: “The education system is designed to produce employees for an industrial world that no longer exists.”

The reality is that universities focus too much on theory and outdated curricula. Graduates leave with debt but lack job-ready skills. Many of them either struggle to get a job in their chosen field or end up working in unrelated roles. Employers today don’t just want degrees; they want practical experience, adaptability, and AI proficiency.

Why AI Upskilling is Essential Right Now

AI is not just a trend—it’s a complete shift in how businesses operate. Daniel Priestley explains it perfectly: “The next decade will create more millionaires than any other period in history because of AI, but only for those who know how to use it.”

Companies are already prioritising AI literacy, and those who don’t learn it will be left behind.

Some key reasons to upskill with AI right now include:

• Automation is replacing traditional jobs. AI is streamlining industries, from finance to marketing to customer service.

• AI enhances productivity and decision-making. Learning AI tools can make you invaluable to businesses.

• Entrepreneurs can scale faster with AI. Whether automating workflows, personalising customer experiences, or optimising marketing, AI gives you an edge.

My Approach: Learning That Works for You and Your Business

Unlike traditional education, my training method focuses on:

• Step-by-step, real-world application. You learn AI skills specifically related to your business and industry.

• Practical learning over theory. What you learn today, you can implement tomorrow.

• Building confidence. You leave feeling prepared, not overwhelmed.

As Daniel Priestley puts it: “Skills aren’t just learned in a classroom—they’re built through action and experience.” 

That’s exactly how I approach AI training. I teach and then let you go away and play around with what you have learned before coming back together a week later to continue the journey.

The Hard Truth: AI is Coming Whether You’re Ready or Not

Priestley makes it clear: “You can either leverage AI or be replaced by it.” AI is not a future possibility—it’s happening now.

Companies are already replacing roles with AI-driven efficiencies. If you don’t adapt, you risk becoming obsolete. (The efficiencies gained through those capabilities decreased the need for many screeners and other junior-level recruiter roles. Bloomberg reported that HR or recruiting roles have accounted for 28% of all layoffs in the technology sector.16 Jun 2024.

Salesforce have laid off 1000 staff last week alone https://www.newsweek.com/salesforce-layoffs-artificial-intelligence-ai-restructuring-2026642).

But the good news? Those who embrace AI early will have a competitive advantage. AI isn’t here to take your job—it’s here to make you more efficient, more effective, and more valuable.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Future

The traditional education system won’t save you. It’s not built for the AI revolution. If you want to stay ahead, you need to take control of your learning and develop AI skills that will future-proof your career and business.

As Daniel Priestley says: “This is the biggest shift of our time. You can either ride the wave or be crushed by it.”

The choice is yours—adapt or be left behind.

Watch the Full Episode

For more insights from Daniel Priestley, check out his episode on The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett: Watch Here.