#Japan #AI Training #Minato-ku #Senior Engineers #Legacy Force

The Learning Gap in AI Training for Senior Engineers in Japan

In a recent survey conducted by Morro Co., a specialized freelance job platform for senior engineers, it has been revealed that a significant percentage of senior engineers in Japan face barriers when it comes to AI training and learning opportunities. The survey targeted 600 IT engineers aged between 40 and 60 to assess the current state of AI education in relation to their careers.

Survey Findings Overview

• - Lack of AI Training: Over half, 56%, of respondents reported that their companies do not provide any AI training programs. In cases where such programs do exist, 8% reported being satisfied with the quality, while 14.3% expressed dissatisfaction with the content, and 12.3% are not utilizing the programs available. Furthermore, a concerning number of responses indicated that these programs were primarily focused on younger employees, leaving senior engineers overlooked.
• - Desire to Learn: Approximately 90% of the engineers expressed a strong desire to learn about AI. However, about one in four indicated they tended to procrastinate on pursuing this knowledge.
• - Learning Barriers: Key obstacles identified include insufficient time (31%), economic constraints (21.8%), lack of practical application opportunities (20.5%), and rapid changes in technology (20%).
• - Investment in Learning: Only 30% of participants reported attending AI training sessions, with 24.7% taking part in free internal programs, and just 9% enrolling in paid external courses. Around 22% of engineers also mentioned they have personally invested in their AI education.

Lack of AI Infrastructure

The overwhelming evidence shows a lack of infrastructure for AI training within companies, which is particularly concerning given Japan's slow pace in AI adoption. It appears that while senior engineers are eager to learn, many organizations still skew training toward younger employees, thereby missing out on the valuable experience these seasoned professionals possess.

Learning Intentions and Challenges

When asked if they want to learn AI skills, a combined 88.6% of respondents stated they either want to learn actively, or plan to do so when needed in their jobs. However, 11.3% did not feel the need to pursue learning in this area, highlighting that while there is intent, the motivation to act can be influenced by external factors and personal circumstances.

The High Cost of Learning

The financial commitment to learning resembles a tipping point where 22% of seniors have invested in AI education themselves, showing a clear divide between those who have funded their studies versus those who have not. Investment details revealed that 32% of those in their 40s have made financial commitments, compared to only 16% in their 60s.

Bridging the Gap

Yohei Maeda, CEO of Morro Co., emphasizes the disparity revealed through this study. He notes that while senior engineers exhibit high motivation to learn AI skills, the lack of adequate training environments provided by companies fails to meet their needs. This gap calls for companies to revamp their training programs to include older generations, harnessing their extensive experience and knowledge for greater organizational success.

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• - Conclusion:

The information gathered underscores the necessity for Japanese companies to create inclusive training systems that cater to all ages, particularly focusing on senior engineers who are often overlooked. In order to combat the prevailing talent shortage in the IT sector, uniting the aspirations of senior professionals with the strategic frameworks of companies will be crucial moving forward.
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