As parents, it's essential that we help our teenagers understand and prepare for this AI-driven future. Encourage them to stay informed about the latest developments in AI and to consider how it might impact their areas of interest. Foster a mindset of curiosity and adaptability, emphasizing that continuous learning will be key to thriving in a rapidly changing world.

Developing AI-Compatible Skills

While AI will automate many tasks, it will also amplify the importance of uniquely human skills. Critical thinking, creative problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and the ability to work effectively with AI systems will be highly valued in the workforce of 2034.

Encourage your teen to cultivate these skills through their academic pursuits, extracurricular activities, and personal projects. They might explore courses in ethics, philosophy, or psychology to deepen their understanding of human cognition and behavior. They could pursue projects that involve collaborating with AI tools, such as using machine learning to analyze data or natural language processing to develop a chatbot.

Aligning Education with an AI-Driven World 

When it comes to college planning, it's crucial to consider how different fields of study will be impacted by AI. A forward-thinking, "fit to major" approach should take into account not just a student's interests and abilities, but also how their chosen field is likely to evolve in an AI-driven world.

This may involve pursuing cutting-edge disciplines like data science, robotics, or human-computer interaction. It could also mean combining traditional fields in innovative ways, such as applying AI to healthcare, education, or environmental science. Encourage your teen to think creatively about how they can leverage AI to solve problems and create value in their areas of interest.

Embracing AI as a Tool and Partner

Rather than seeing AI as a threat, encourage your teen to view it as a powerful tool and potential partner. Learning to work effectively with AI systems - to understand their strengths and limitations, to interpret their outputs, and to use them to augment human capabilities - will be a key skill in the workforce of 2034.

However, a recent Deloitte survey reveals that only about half of Gen Zs (51%) and millennials (45%) say their employer is sufficiently training them on the capabilities, benefits, and value of GenAI. This might involve learning to code and understanding the basics of how AI algorithms work. It could also mean developing expertise in a specific application of AI, such as using it to analyze financial data, to personalize educational experiences, or to create interactive art installations. The more comfortable and adept your teen becomes in working with AI, the better positioned they'll be to thrive in an AI-driven world.

Preparing for Ethical and Societal Implications

As AI becomes more integrated into the workforce, it will raise complex ethical and societal questions. Issues of bias, privacy, accountability, and the distribution of benefits and risks will all come to the fore. The workers of 2034 will need to be equipped to navigate these challenges thoughtfully and responsibly. 

The Deloitte survey found that uncertainty is the top emotion Gen Zs and millennials report feeling when they think about GenAI—this is particularly true for women. Women also report feeling less comfortable working with GenAI than men are—54% of Gen Z women and 52% of millennial women say they are comfortable with it compared to 63% of Gen Z men and 62% of millennial men.

Encourage your teen to engage with these issues proactively. They might explore courses in ethics, policy, or social justice to develop their critical thinking around the societal implications of technology. They could pursue projects or internships that grapple with the responsible development and deployment of AI. By cultivating a strong ethical compass and a commitment to using AI for good, they'll be well-prepared to lead in an AI-driven world.

Supporting Your Teen's AI-Enabled Journey 

As a parent, you play a crucial role in helping your teen navigate the path towards the AI-driven workforce of 2034. Stay informed about the latest developments and applications of AI. Provide resources and experiences that help your teen explore their interests in the context of an AI-enabled world. Encourage the development of both technical and interpersonal skills, with a focus on those that will be most compatible with AI.

Most importantly, foster a mindset of curiosity, creativity, and resilience. The world of 2034 will undoubtedly bring both tremendous opportunities and complex challenges. By approaching this future with an open mind, a commitment to continuous learning, and a determination to use technology for good, your teen will be well-equipped not just to adapt to change, but to drive it in positive directions. With your support and encouragement, they'll be ready to thrive in the exciting, AI-driven world that awaits.