In a bid to bolster Australia's AI capabilities, Silicon Valley's 'Section School' has partnered with BSI Digital Learning to establish an AI Academy down under. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for AI skills among businesses across various sectors.

The newly launched BSI Digital AI Academy will offer a range of courses, prominently featuring the AI Crash Course, alongside other specialized upskilling programs led by AI experts from tech giants like Google, Meta, Apple, and Amazon. 

These courses are designed to cater to busy professionals with flexible, virtual delivery options that include both live sessions and on-demand learning.

Simon Dewar, Group CEO of BSI Learning and digital learning technologist, highlighted the academy's approach, emphasizing practical, blended, and digital learning methodologies tailored for professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of AI technology. 

"Unlike traditional academic routes, Section School's focus on practical applications ensures that professionals can access learning tools in real-time or asynchronously," Dewar affirmed.

The launch comes at a pivotal moment as global investment in AI is projected to surpass $500 billion annually by 2025, according to a recent McKinsey report. This surge underscores the urgency for businesses to equip themselves with AI competencies to stay competitive in an increasingly digital landscape. 

"AI experimentation and pilot projects are underway across sectors as companies seek to harness AI's potential," noted Dewar.

Industry veterans like Tony Surtees drew parallels between the current AI revolution and the advent of personal computing in previous decades. "Just as mastering Microsoft Office was crucial in the past, proficiency in AI is becoming indispensable today," Surtees remarked, emphasizing the transformative impact of AI literacy on professional success.

Damian Kassabgi echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of continuous reskilling in response to technological advancements. "AI demands a proactive approach to training and upskilling, akin to previous waves of technological change," Kassabgi affirmed, highlighting the ongoing need for workforce readiness amidst evolving job landscapes.

Greg Shove, a prominent voice in the AI sector, cautioned against complacency, noting that while AI itself won't replace jobs, adeptness in its application could distinguish between career advancement and stagnation. "Those proficient in AI usage will have a competitive edge in the job market," Shove advised, underscoring the strategic advantage of AI proficiency in the workforce.

For aspiring AI practitioners and seasoned professionals alike, the BSI Digital AI Academy promises a gateway to cutting-edge AI insights, training, and support tools necessary to cultivate specialized skills and expertise. 

"Our academy aims to democratize access to AI knowledge and empower professionals with the capabilities to excel in AI-driven roles," Dewar concluded, reflecting on the academy's role in fostering AI literacy and preparing Australia's workforce for the future of technology.