Philly-area job listings requiring AI skills exceeded 10,000 last year.

In a recent analysis by Brookings Institution, a prominent research organization based in Washington, D.C., the Philadelphia metropolitan area has been recognized as one of the most prepared regions for artificial intelligence (AI) integration in the United States. This report, which examined the AI landscape across various metropolitan regions, places Philadelphia 14th out of 195 cities assessed for AI readiness and workforce competence.

Brookings’ research highlights Philadelphia’s robust pool of talent, particularly noting the high concentration of Ph.D. graduates in fields such as computer science, engineering, and mathematics. Additionally, local companies have started adopting cloud-based technologies at an impressive rate. The report’s findings indicate that Philadelphia is part of a broader group of 28 metropolitan areas that collectively represent a “second echelon” of strong AI ecosystems alongside cities like New York, Chicago, Boston, and Los Angeles. San Jose and San Francisco lead as the top two cities for AI adoption.

This designation as an emerging center of AI innovation is an encouraging development for the region, according to Mark Muro, a senior fellow at Brookings Metro. Muro noted the importance of fostering entrepreneurial activity around AI, asserting that further progress requires enhancing support for startups and business initiatives in the field.

Despite its strengths, the report also points out certain weaknesses within the Philadelphia region’s AI landscape. Areas where Philadelphia lags include commercial patenting, securing federal contracts focused on AI, and attracting venture capital for AI startups. Addressing these gaps will be crucial for the city to maximize its potential as an AI hub.

Furthermore, the report discusses the implications of AI technology on the workforce. While AI presents exciting opportunities for productivity gains and economic transformation, the authors emphasize the necessity of devising strategies that support workers during this transition. They advocate for inclusive policies that secure job stability, as the adoption of AI could lead to gains for many while adversely affecting others.

In 2022, 5,166 workers in the Philadelphia area with AI skills transitioned to new positions, with job postings demanding such skills reaching 10,815. This is reflective of a national shift, where job listings requiring AI capabilities surged from 3,780 in 2010 to an anticipated 82,980 by 2025.

As the job market evolves with increasing reliance on AI, new graduates may find themselves facing heightened competition as companies leverage technology for tasks traditionally assigned to entry-level positions. In this context, preparedness for AI impacts is paramount, according to Muro, who reinforces the need for regions to adopt supportive measures that will facilitate a smooth transition into the future workforce.

The findings from this report come at a critical time when the labor landscape is shifting, and they indicate that while Philadelphia is poised for advancement in AI, strategic planning and worker protections will be essential components of sustainable growth.

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