Be sure to check out our Competent Muleriders blog post to see an introduction to the career competencies, while keeping an eye out for the other seven career competency blog posts as well.

Since the day we were born, technology has surrounded us in some form. While you might immediately think of the smartphone in your hand or the computer on your desk, technology is so much more than that. It’s any tool that enhances efficiency, helps us complete tasks, and achieves our goals.

As technology advances rapidly, staying up to date in the workforce requires constantly learning how to use these new tools effectively. Whether you’re in education, engineering, theater, business, or any other industry, technology plays a vital role in how work is done.

How does technology relate to industries?

Every industry relies on technology to evolve and remain efficient. As our understanding of the world around us grows, so does the ability to harness technology to use information in different ways.

For example:

• Education uses enhanced curriculums that incorporate tools that make learning efficient for both teachers and students.
• Engineering professionals use software like CAD to create detailed designs to help solve complex problems.
• Theater uses technology to transform a role, from lighting to sound and even projecting immersive stage environments.
• Businesses use tools such as SAP to streamline operations to help coordinate between supply chains, marketing, and financial departments.

Even in everyday work, foundational tools like spreadsheets, emails, and collaboration tools such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams have become essential for communication and productivity. Artificial Intelligence has been integrated into many of these tools, enabling features like predictive text, real-time translation, and grammar assistance, further enhancing efficiency. Artificial Intelligence is used in every industry.

Why stay up to date?

The world is moving fast, and technology is leading the way. You have probably heard the saying, “If you are late, you are left behind,” and there’s no better example than Blockbuster. Once a giant in the entertainment industry, Blockbuster declined the chance to acquire Netflix rights because it failed to see the value of evolving technology. As a result, Netflix thrived, and Blockbuster became a case study in missed opportunities. As powerful as technology is, it can create challenges if not used correctly. For instance, a lack of knowledge can expose both individuals and companies to cyberattacks. These attacks not only compromise data – they disrupt workflows, cause delays, and reduce overall efficiency. On the flip side, staying informed and improving your tech skills allows you to:

• Work smarter and more efficiently
• Solve problems faster
• Stand out as a valuable contributor in your field

AI is changing the way businesses do business. By mastering AI tools, you can use insights from vast data, create solutions to problems, and automate tasks. AI is endless as far as technology is concerned and will soon be the future of medicine, education, and anything in between. Embracing AI will help us stay competitive and adaptable in our everyday advancing world.

Technology is not slowing down anytime soon. By staying updated with advancements and building your skills, you will not only stay with the change but will set yourself apart from the crowd. So, take the leap. Try out the new software. Watch the YouTube tutorial. Who knows? The next skill you learn might be the one that takes your career to the next level.