Garrett: AI skills key to Oklahoma’s future workforce

Remember the android named Data from Star Trek: The Next Generation?

On the Enterprise, Data helped the crew resolve weekly challenges with alien species using a combination of incredible strength, quick thinking and encyclopedic knowledge (all while learning what it means to be human).

For me, the thought of harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) conjures images of robots like Data a walking, talking machine with limitless capability and a knack for mimicking human expression.

While alien encounters in a faraway galaxy and a hyper-intelligent android delivering clever one-liners are straight out of Hollywood, the reality is this: AI is continually advancing machine learning technology and seamlessly integrating into our everyday lives, streamlining and improving the way we live and work.

AI’s importance to the future of work is clear. That is the driving force behind the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education’s recent approval of the first undergraduate AI degree programs in the state. The University of Oklahoma and Southwestern Oklahoma State University will offer the Bachelor of Science in artificial intelligence and Rose State College will offer an Associate in Science in artificial intelligence and machine learning. All three degrees will be available to learners via both traditional instruction and online delivery.

Oklahoma’s was the first higher education system in the nation to establish a statewide committee focused on AI impacts in higher education. Launched in early 2023, our committee is comprised of more than 40 members from public and private campuses across the state, including academic professionals, educational administrators and AI industry practitioners.

These advancements align with Governor Stitt's recent Task Force on Emerging Technologies, which recommended integrating AI education across all levels, from K-12 to higher education, and launching workforce retraining programs to prepare current and future generations for the evolving AI-centric job market.

The influence of AI technologies shows no signs of slowing. Across employment sectors - including health care, finance, manufacturing and aerospace - more than 19,000 Oklahoma jobs currently require AI skills. Those positions have median annual earnings of nearly $106,000. The number of AI-related positions in our state is expected to increase 21% over the next decade.

For students and workers of all ages, access to AI resources, degree programs, and upskilling or reskilling opportunities can increase their marketability for job opportunities and help them stand out from the crowd. A recent Oxford Economic Papers report showed that job candidates who noted AI studies in their resume or cover letter were more likely to be selected for an interview and more likely to be offered higher wages.

The rapid and extensive adoption of machine learning technology by employers of all sizes across a wide spectrum of industries spurs demand for AI education, operational experience, and technical expertise. The State Regents and our public institutions will continue our work to remain on the leading edge of the AI field and produce the skilled graduates required to meet Oklahoma’s workforce needs today, tomorrow and in the future. We know Data would approve.

Allison D. Garrettis chancellor of the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education.

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