Mind the Skills Gap: Communication

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Communication Skills Gap: LSE emphasizes developing communication skills, crucial for career success. Employers report that graduates lack essential communication abilities. Faculty and alumni suggest practice through societies, mock interviews, and board-style presentations. Workshops and networking events are offered to enhance interpersonal skills. Communication is framed as a “muscle,” needing constant enhancement for effective workplace engagement.

https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/management/2026/01/27/mind-the-skills-gap-communication/

Louisiana Partners With Persona AI For Humanoid Robotics Pilot

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Louisiana has partnered with Persona AI to pilot humanoid robotics in heavy industry, specifically at SSE Steel’s fabrication facility. The initiative aims to gather data for humanoid systems working alongside skilled tradespeople, enhancing operational efficiency and safety. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to modernize the state’s industrial capabilities through innovative technologies, ultimately creating high-skill jobs and improving competitiveness in key sectors.

https://businessfacilities.com/louisiana-partners-with-persona-ai-for-humanoid-robotics-pilot/

Hyundai Motor Workers Should Upskill to Coexist With Robots: ILO Director

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ILO director advises Hyundai workers to upskill for coexistence with robots; union’s anti-robot stance deemed unrealistic. Emphasizes skilled workers needed to maintain robots despite fears of job loss. Calls for creating sustainable job cycles while supporting youth entrepreneurship.

https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/amp/business/companies/20260127/hyundai-motor-workers-should-adapt-to-coexist-with-robots-ilo-director

Early U.S. Evidence Of AI Impacts On Jobs In The College Educated Workforce

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FII Institute’s annual Global Survey captures insights from 50,000 citizens across 24 countries to identify emerging priorities for global leaders. A new report by Prof. Jeffrey Sachs examines generative AI’s impact on entry-level jobs for college-educated workers, revealing wage stagnation and economic anxiety as AI automates tasks.

https://fii-institute.org/publication/early-u-s-evidence-of-ai-impacts-on-jobs-in-the-college-educated-workforce

76% of Americans Plan on Learning New AI Skills in 2026, Workera Report Finds

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A Workera report reveals that 76% of Americans plan to learn new AI skills in 2026, with 40% aiming to apply them in their current roles and 36% seeking new opportunities. The report, based on a survey of 1,000 white-collar workers, also highlights that 53% of respondents are looking for new roles, with 39% expecting AI to impact their employment status. Additionally, the report emphasizes the importance of skills data over resumes in talent decisions.

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/76-of-americans-plan-on-learning-new-ai-skills-in-2026-workera-report-finds-302666555.html

What Is a Humanoid Robot? Definition, Capabilities, and Industrial Reality

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Humanoid robots mimic human structure and capabilities to work in human-designed environments. As labor shortages rise, manufacturers see them as a new automation solution. Key humanoid features include human-like form, high degrees of freedom for movement, and advanced AI for autonomy. Their role in industrial automation differs from traditional robots, focusing on unstructured settings. Current challenges include production costs and safety, emphasizing the need for practical applications and clear ROI in manufacturing. Future success depends on identifying specific tasks where humanoids excel, moving beyond mere demonstrations to validation of value.

https://www.automate.org/news/humanoid-robots-definition-capabilities-and-industrial-reality

Who Uses AI in Europe

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EU invests in AI adoption, but usage remains uneven. 64% of Europeans see AI literacy as crucial by 2030. AI use has increased 12.3% since 2021, with 32.7% of Europeans using AI tools. Adoption varies by country, with generative AI in education low at 9.8%. Denmark leads in AI business adoption (42.03%), while Hungary lags behind (1.31%). The EU should focus on sector-specific AI deployment and measurable KPIs for effective support.

https://eutechloop.com/who-uses-ai-in-europe-and-where-its-still-taboo/

Hyundai Labor Union Warns Humanoids Could Trigger Major Job Losses

Hyundai’s labor union opposes deploying humanoid robots in factories without a formal agreement to ensure job security. The plan follows Hyundai’s intention to introduce Atlas robots and expand production capabilities by 2028, raising concerns about potential job losses and profit motives behind automation. The union demands management agreement before any robot deployment, emphasizing the threat of an “employment shock.”

https://interestingengineering.com/ai-robotics/hyundai-humanoids-not-allowed-without-agreement

Frequent Use of AI in the Workplace Continued to Rise in Q4

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AI workplace use rose gradually in Q4 2025; daily use increased from 10% to 12%, with 26% using it frequently. Total users remained flat, with 49% never using AI. Adoption varies by industry and role; highest in tech and finance, lowest in retail and manufacturing. Leaders use AI more than others (69% vs. 40%). AI growth concentrated in remote-capable roles. Overall, leaders reported higher AI use than other employees, necessitating clear applications for effective integration.

https://www.gallup.com/workplace/701195/frequent-workplace-continued-rise.aspx

The Real Economics of AI and Jobs

AI is transforming the job market, altering skill needs and wages globally. While predictions about its impact vary, the World Economic Forum anticipates job creation will surpass losses in the near term. The integration of AI may proceed rapidly, potentially displacing many workers but also creating new job opportunities. Success will depend on understanding technology, policy, and education, emphasizing lifelong learning and adaptation. Demographics and geoeconomic shifts will also play significant roles in shaping future labor markets. Policymakers must consider these factors to create effective talent strategies for diverse economies.

https://time.com/7357476/economics-of-ai-and-jobs/

‘Jobs, Jobs, Jobs’ the AI Mantra in Davos as Fears Take Back Seat

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Davos 2026 saw business leaders optimistic about AI creating new jobs despite fears of job losses and industry disruptions. Executives highlighted AI’s potential to improve productivity and efficiency, with some expressing concern that it might be used to justify layoffs. While tech giants viewed AI as a means for job growth in sectors like energy and infrastructure, union leaders warned of its threat to workers. Bill Gates emphasized the need for society to adapt to AI’s impact, suggesting solutions like taxing AI activities to assist displaced workers.

https://www.reuters.com/business/davos/jobs-jobs-jobs-ai-mantra-fears-take-back-seat-davos-2026-01-23/

1 in 5 Workers See No AI Impact on Their Jobs

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1 in 5 workers see no AI effect on jobs, despite rapid AI integration in hiring. 47% fear AI benefits companies more. Job postings requiring AI skills rose by 1,587%. 65% feel the need to upskill; 52% seek ways to enhance skills. Traditional career paths are viewed as outdated; only 41% want them. 40% work second jobs due to costs, with work-life balance prioritized over pay. Trust in leadership decreased from 77% to 72%, notably among Gen Z. Manager-employee relationships improved, while soft skills are learned from older workers and tech skills from younger ones.

https://www.staffingindustry.com/news/global-daily-news/1-in-5-workers-see-no-ai-impact-on-their-jobs

AI Literacy Training: From Best Practice to Legal Requirement Under the New EU AI Act

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EU AI Act mandates AI literacy training, evolving from best practice to legal obligation. Effective Feb 2026, compliance is essential for all organizations deploying AI affecting people in the EU. Training must cover AI fundamentals, legal requirements, and practical applications while addressing ethics. Ongoing, structured education is crucial for maintaining compliance and adapting to evolving regulations globally.

https://blog.knowbe4.com/ai-literacy-training-from-best-practice-to-legal-requirement-under-the-new-eu-ai-act

Invest in the Workforce for the AI Age: a Blueprint for Scale, Skills and Responsible Growth

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Investing in workforce skills is crucial in the AI era for maximizing value creation. Successful transformation requires alignment of workforce, operating models, and governance to drive business outcomes. A new social contract for learning is essential, where organizations offer clear skills pathways and support continuous learning. Roles must evolve, emphasizing human judgment over repetitive tasks. Companies should adopt disciplined AI missions, focus on collaborative ecosystems, and ensure responsible AI deployment to foster trust and inclusivity. Leaders must integrate strategy with skills development to achieve sustainable growth and productivity.

https://www.weforum.org/stories/2026/01/ai-roadmap-transforming/

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