As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the workplace, one Dallas nonprofit is helping families develop skills they can use to stay competitive in a changing job market.
Kimberly Williams, CEO of Interfaith Family Services, said the organization works with families who are struggling with or at risk of homelessness because of job loss, rising rent, or unexpected expenses.
“We provide housing, help, and hope for families that are facing homelessness,” Williams said. The organization offers financial and career coaching, childcare, after-school and summer programs, and other services from its East Dallas campus.
As AI becomes more common in jobs involving administrative support, customer service, scheduling, research, and communication, Williams said workers need to understand how to use the technology effectively while also recognizing what they bring to the workplace that AI cannot.
“That means that AI literacy is becoming a very important workplace skill,” she said.
The non profit has created a Future Ready Workforce AI Boot Camp to teach participants practical ways to incorporate AI into their everyday work.
Williams said the program also emphasizes the importance of human judgment and experience.
“AI may be able to provide data and information, but we always tell our participants that you provide the real person knowledge, the client understanding, and those extra elements that make customer service especially effective.”
For job seekers, Williams recommends demonstrating AI skills while also highlighting their personal experience and ability to connect with customers.
“It really takes a strong knowledge of self compared with the efficiency and the effectiveness of AI that really makes you a strong candidate,” she said.
Williams also encouraged workers who are worried about AI replacing their jobs not to avoid the technology.
“Don’t run away from AI, get to learn about it,” she said, pointing to free online certification programs and encouraging workers to develop a five-year career plan.
She said workers should also consider pursuing certifications in fields that require hands-on or people-centered skills.
“Don’t let it sneak up on you, try to get ahead, try to be proactive and create a five-year plan,” Williams said.
