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Rubén Andrés
WriterWriter at Xataka. I've been working remotely for more than a decade and I'm a strong advocate of technology as a way to improve our lives. Full-time addict of black, sugar-free coffee.
Karen Alfaro
WriterCommunications professional with a decade of experience as a copywriter, proofreader, and editor. As a travel and science journalist, I've collaborated with several print and digital outlets around the world. I'm passionate about culture, music, food, history, and innovative technologies.
AI developments are no longer the stuff of science fiction. As workplaces rapidly integrate this technology, Generation Z must adapt. Billionaire investor Mark Cuban urges young professionals to recognize that mastering AI isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Cuban’s advice. Cuban, co-founder of video portal Broadcast.com and former owner of the Dallas Mavericks, said at the SXSW conference that he’s tried his luck in all kinds of businesses throughout his life.
However, he admitted that if he were young with a whole career ahead of him, he would devote all his time to one thing: “If I was 16, 18, 20, 21 starting today, I would spend every waking minute learning about AI. Even if I am sleeping, I am listening to podcasts talking about AI.”
AI is the future, and you have to prepare for it. In his speech, Cuban emphasized that AI systems won’t only automate tasks but also create new job opportunities and transform industries. Young professionals entering the workforce will have to work with AI-based tools—or better yet, create them.
According to Cuban, the key isn’t to fear AI developments but to embrace them and learn how to use them. This includes acquiring skills in machine learning, data analytics and algorithm development. “Those people who put in the time are going to crush it,” the entrepreneur and investor, whose fortune Forbes estimates at $5.7 billion, said.
Skills beyond AI systems. The billionaire stressed that mastering AI systems isn’t limited to computer engineers or data scientists. He believes those who can combine AI skills with expertise in fields such as marketing, finance and design will be in high demand. He sees Gen Z’s primary task as integrating AI development into business processes.
The entrepreneur stressed that future jobs will demand AI-related skills. Investing time and effort in learning AI systems is, therefore, an investment in long-term career success. “I don’t care how big you are or how small you are, you have to learn about AI,” Cuban stated.
A foundation to build on. Cuban is one of the stars of the ABC show Shark Tank, where entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to investors. That’s why he not only encourages young people to learn everything they can about AI development to secure good jobs but also sees it as a path to entrepreneurship.
The billionaire says understanding AI systems can open new opportunities for startups, just as today’s tech giants did a decade ago. “AI is never the answer. AI is a tool,” Cuban said during his speech at the entrepreneurship conference.
Image | Gage Skidmore
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