The telecom industry is undergoing a significant transformation, with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) technologies. Recent reports indicate that the AI/ML workforce in telecom service providers has surged to 20%, marking a substantial increase from just 7% in the July-September 2022 period.
Key Highlights:
- AI/ML workforce in telecom rises to 20% from 7% within a year.
- 5G rollout cited as a primary driver for this growth.
- By the end of fiscal 2024, AI/ML jobs are expected to constitute 23% of the telecom workforce.
- Major telecom firms, including Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, are intensifying their focus on AI/ML.
- The demand for AI/ML professionals extends beyond telecom to IT, manufacturing, and fintech sectors.
The rapid adoption of AI and ML technologies is attributed to the ongoing 5G rollout, which has opened up new avenues for innovation and customer-centric solutions in the telecom sector. Experts predict that if this trend continues, by the end of fiscal 2024, nearly one in four professionals in the telecom sector will be engaged in AI/ML-related roles.
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The roles associated with AI/ML in the telecom sector are diverse. They range from enterprise business-related positions to those that focus on cutting-edge technologies and emerging trends. A significant portion of these roles is dedicated to enhancing the customer experience, a testament to the industry’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
However, this rapid growth also presents challenges. The competition for AI/ML talent is heating up, indicating a potential talent gap in the near future. This demand is not limited to the telecom industry. Sectors like IT, manufacturing, and fintech are also vying for skilled AI/ML professionals for various functions, including fraud detection, risk evaluation, and customer service.
With the introduction of 5G services, telecom giants like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel have shifted their focus towards AI/ML. This shift is evident in their hiring patterns, with Jio emphasizing roles in data engineering and machine learning, while Airtel sees a growth trajectory in roles associated with Java and cloud technologies.
