This week, we welcomed Rob Bassett Cross, the founder and CEO of the artificial intelligence software provider Adarga, to speak to us about the topic of AI: A Challenge or the Future?

At supper, Rob chatted to us about how he managed to get into the field of technology despite having attained a Law degree and having served in the military. He highlighted how AI models, such as ChatGPT and Dall-E, have been around for decades but have only just started to be discussed and used in mainstream media, and how our political systems have fallen behind in comparison to the rapid advancement of technology.

Rob also spoke about how we, as A Level students, can use AI models like ChatGPT to our advantage by using its responses as a foundation and not a definitive answer; however, he warned us to be careful of the responses AI models can give, as different AI models will have been developed for different purposes.

Rob reassured us that not having a degree in Computer Science or STEM subjects would likely not hinder our chances of being hired in an IT firm, as long as we showed we had the necessary skill set.

In his talk, Rob posed the question: Will AI be able to take over our jobs soon? In response, Rob stated that no, AI will not take over our jobs, but people who have a greater knowledge of AI and its uses, will be at an advantage and will be attractive to employ.

Overall, this lecture gave us a fascinating insight into the world of artificial intelligence and the fast progression of this technology, whilst also giving us insight into what sort of skills would be useful when entering the world of work.

Belle, UVI