AI Skills Top Priority In Israel’s High-Tech Sector Amid Conflict ‌

An understanding of artificial intelligence is now the most sought-after attribute in Israel’s high-tech workspace. COURTESY

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An understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) is now the most sought-after attribute in Israel’s high-tech workspace.

That’s according to a Skills Index Survey of 150 managers, commissioned by Afeka Academic College of Engineering in Tel Aviv, and Hebrew-language business newspaper TheMarker.

The managers were asked to score a range of the most desirable skills for themselves and their employees – and the ability to work with AI programs came out on top.

The same survey carried out last year ranked creative thinking in the number one position, ahead of previous experience or a relevant academic degree.

More than half (55%) the high-tech managers questioned this year said familiarizing themselves with AI was their top priority, compared with 35% last year.

Critical thinking and the ability to solve complex problems — both qualities associated with the use of AI — came in second and third place, respectively.

The increasing emphasis on AI comes as the war in Gaza drags on and many workers are away from the office serving in the IDF reserves.

Mental resilience also appears high on the list of managers’ priorities. Last year it wasn’t even mentioned.

Here’s the full list of 13 qualities managers were asked to rank: Mental fortitude; experience working with AI programs; leadership; emotional intelligence; critical thinking; written and verbal communication skills; proactivity motivation; creative thinking; ability to work in a multidisciplinary environment; ability to work independently; learning independently; and problem-solving.