Equipping Students with Lifelong Skills in the Age of COVID-19

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries worldwide, and the trades are no exception. Rather than replacing skilled tradespeople, AI is emerging as a powerful tool to enhance their work. From streamlining complex tasks to offering innovative solutions, AI enables tradespeople to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently—saving time and money while improving safety and quality. So often, people think of AI as a tool only for the tech world, but it has applications far beyond coding and software development. Whether you are in a trade, a small business owner, or a tech professional, AI has something to offer everyone—if you know how to use it. By learning how to integrate AI into daily workflows, individuals across all industries can unlock new efficiencies and possibilities. We could apply this approach to every trade career, but we already do this comprehensively with our PromptScout app in our brand-new AI for the Workplace course . In this article we will highlight several career pathways including welding, construction, electrical work, plumbing, dental hygiene, and cosmetology to demonstrate how trade professionals are finding practical ways to incorporate AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, CoPilot, etc. into their daily routines. AI in Welding Applications and Benefits AI in welding is primarily used for quality assurance, process optimization, and safety monitoring. Welding involves precision, and even minor errors can lead to structural weaknesses. AI can analyze welding patterns, detect inconsistencies, and provide real-time feedback to improve quality. For example, AI-powered welding robots equipped with sensors can monitor heat levels, adjust welding speed, and ensure consistent weld seams. These robots don’t replace welders but assist them in achieving precise results, reducing the need for rework and material waste. Example: Using ChatGPT in Welding A welder could use ChatGPT to quickly look up troubleshooting steps for common welding defects like porosity or cracking. For instance, a welder encountering uneven weld beads might ask, “What are some reasons my weld beads are uneven, and how can I fix them?” ChatGPT could provide detailed guidance, helping the welder resolve the issue on the spot. AI in Construction Applications and Benefits Construction projects are complex, requiring meticulous planning and coordination. AI excels in managing logistics, analyzing structural designs, and predicting potential issues before they arise. AI-powered software can create detailed project schedules, optimize material usage, and forecast potential delays due to weather or supply chain disruptions. Drones equipped with AI can survey construction sites, providing accurate measurements and identifying safety hazards. Example: Using ChatGPT in Construction A construction manager might use ChatGPT to draft safety guidelines for a specific task or generate a materials list based on project specifications. For example, “What are the safety precautions for operating a crane near power lines?” ChatGPT can offer a concise checklist, ensuring compliance and worker safety. AI in Electrical Work Applications and Benefits Electricians benefit from AI tools that diagnose electrical issues, design circuits, and predict system failures. Smart home systems integrated with AI allow electricians to set up automated energy-saving configurations for clients, enhancing functionality and efficiency. AI-powered diagnostic tools can analyze electrical panels and pinpoint issues such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. These tools save time by eliminating guesswork, allowing electricians to focus on repairs. Example: Using ChatGPT in Electrical Work An electrician could use ChatGPT to find wiring diagrams or confirm code compliance for a specific installation. For instance, they might ask, “Help me diagnose a large voltage drop on an outside circuit.” ChatGPT’s response can serve as a quick reference, ensuring the job is done correctly. Additionally, an electrician could use AI tools to create a brochure or blog post to promote their qualifications, highlighting certifications, services offered, and customer testimonials to attract more clients. AI in Plumbing Applications and Benefits AI in plumbing aids in detecting leaks, mapping pipe systems, and preventing water waste. Smart sensors combined with AI can monitor water flow and alert plumbers to potential issues before they escalate. AI-enabled cameras can inspect pipes for blockages or corrosion, providing plumbers with real-time visuals and analytics. These tools improve accuracy and reduce the time needed to diagnose problems. Example: Using ChatGPT in Plumbing A plumber might use ChatGPT to draft an estimate or explain a repair process to a customer. For example, “How should I explain the steps for replacing a water heater to a homeowner?” ChatGPT can generate a clear explanation, helping the plumber communicate effectively and build trust with the client. Additionally, a plumber could use AI tools to create a spreadsheet showing the return on investment (ROI) for installing low-flow toilets and shower heads, illustrating potential water savings and long-term cost benefits for clients. AI in Dental Hygiene Applications and Benefits Dental hygienists can leverage AI for patient diagnostics, treatment planning, and education. AI-powered imaging tools analyze X-rays and dental scans to detect cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues more accurately and quickly than traditional methods. AI can also streamline administrative tasks like appointment scheduling, allowing dental hygienists to focus more on patient care. Example: Using ChatGPT in Dental Hygiene A dental hygienist might use ChatGPT to draft a patient-friendly explanation of a complex treatment plan. For instance, they could ask, “How can I explain the process of scaling and root planing to a nervous patient?” ChatGPT could generate a calming and clear explanation, making patients feel more at ease. AI in Cosmetology Applications and Benefits Cosmetologists can use AI to enhance customer consultations, create personalized beauty regimens, and manage salon operations. AI-driven apps analyze skin and hair conditions, recommending tailored treatments or products for clients. Additionally, AI can assist in designing hairstyles or makeup looks, using virtual try-on technology to help clients visualize results before committing to a service. Example: Using ChatGPT in Cosmetology A cosmetologist might use ChatGPT to write a social media post promoting a new service or product. For example, “Can you help me create a post about the benefits of keratin treatments?” ChatGPT could draft an engaging post, helping attract new clients and build their business. Additionally, a cosmetologist could use ChatGPT to create an outline and script for giving a workshop for seniors on best practices to maintain healthy hair. For instance, they might ask, “Help me draft a detailed outline and talking points for a workshop on senior hair care best practices.” ChatGPT can generate a professional and engaging plan to ensure the workshop is both informative and enjoyable. Additional Benefits of AI for Tradespeople Time-Saving: AI automates repetitive tasks like documentation, inventory management, and scheduling, allowing tradespeople to focus on hands-on work. Cost Efficiency: AI reduces waste and optimizes resource use, saving money on materials and energy. Safety: AI-powered sensors and monitoring tools enhance workplace safety by identifying hazards and ensuring compliance with regulations. Skill Enhancement: By providing instant access to information and best practices, AI empowers tradespeople to continuously improve their skills. Conclusion AI is a game-changer for the trades, offering tools and insights that help professionals work more efficiently, reduce costs, and improve outcomes. Whether it’s ensuring the precision of a weld, optimizing a construction schedule, diagnosing electrical issues, detecting plumbing leaks, enhancing dental hygiene, or improving cosmetology services, AI enhances the capabilities of skilled tradespeople without replacing their expertise. By integrating AI tools like ChatGPT into their daily workflows, tradespeople can solve problems faster, communicate more effectively, and deliver higher-quality results. As AI continues to evolve, its potential to support and empower the trades will only grow, making it an indispensable partner for professionals in the field. CTeLearning's AI for the Workplace curriculum with an industry-based microcredential enables CTE teachers to give their students a career-boosting industry credential in just five hours of class time. This curriculum empowers learners with skills to use AI as a tool, positioning them as the most hireable employees in their fields. Interested in learning more? Click here or call us at 913-764-4272 to schedule a free 20-minute demo of any of our courses and certifications. Citations American Welding Society. (2023). “AI in Welding: Enhancing Precision and Quality.” Retrieved from https://www.aws.org National Association of Home Builders. (2023). “AI Tools in Construction Management.” Retrieved from https://www.nahb.org International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. (2023). “How AI is Supporting Electricians.” Retrieved from https://www.ibew.org Plumbing Manufacturers International. (2023). “AI Applications in Modern Plumbing.” Retrieved from https://www.safeplumbing.org WebProfessionalsGlobal.org “Congratulating the First Students to Earn the New Certified AI for the Workplace Credential” Retrieved from https://webprofessionalsglobal.org/congratulating-the-first-students-to-earn-the-new-certified-ai-for-the-workplace-credential/ WebProfessionalsGlobal.org “Introducing the AI for the Workplace Certificate “ https://webprofessionalsglobal.org/introducing-the-ai-for-the-workplace-certificate/

Artificial intelligence is shaping the future of work. From healthcare to engineering, AI tools are transforming industries. Our recently released AI for the Workplace course prepares students for the world of AI, no matter where their future educational and professional paths will take them. But AI isn’t perfect. When things go wrong, the lessons can be just as valuable as the successes. Our course shows how while AI is an incredibly powerful tool, it cannot just be trusted blindly without verification. Here, we explore some high-profile AI failures and how they can guide educators in preparing learners for an AI-driven workplace. Misleading Outputs The Failure: In one instance, a generative AI system created false news headlines. These included fabricated stories about public figures, leading to confusion and reputational damage. For example, AI erroneously reported that a CEO had committed suicide, causing panic before the truth was clarified. Similarly, Google’s AI suggested bizarre solutions to common questions, such as adding glue to pizza sauce or eating rocks daily. These errors highlighted how AI can misinterpret data or provide nonsensical advice when not carefully monitored. Takeaway for Educators: Teach students to verify AI outputs. Emphasize the importance of critical thinking when using AI tools. Encourage learners to question results and double-check facts. Thought for Students: Always be the human in the loop. AI is powerful, but your judgment is irreplaceable. Bias in AI: Who’s Left Out? The Failure: Recruitment tools trained on biased data favored men over women or excluded older candidates. In healthcare, algorithms gave lower-risk scores to Black patients compared to white patients with similar needs. These issues arose from biased training data that reflected existing inequalities, reinforcing discrimination instead of eliminating it. For example, an AI system penalized resumes containing words like “women’s” or identifying all-women colleges, systematically disadvantaging female applicants. Takeaway for Educators: Highlight the importance of ethical AI use. Show students how biases in data can lead to unfair outcomes. Discuss how diversity in datasets can improve AI systems. Thought for Students: Question the fairness of AI. Ask who’s included, who’s excluded, and why. Legal Trouble: AI and Fabricated Information The Failure: Lawyers have used AI to cite nonexistent legal cases. One instance led to fines and professional embarrassment after a court discovered fabricated precedents. In one case, an attorney submitted a brief with six false citations provided by AI, complete with fake quotes and docket numbers. These errors arose because the lawyer relied entirely on AI without verifying the accuracy of its outputs. Takeaway for Educators: Stress the importance of validating AI-generated information. Create assignments where students cross-reference AI outputs with credible sources. Thought for Students: AI can assist, but it can also mislead. Your diligence makes all the difference. Automation Gone Awry: The Tesla Incidents The Failure: Tesla’s Full Self-Driving AI faced scrutiny after numerous crashes. Investigations revealed safety concerns tied to AI decision-making in critical moments. In some cases, the system misjudged obstacles, leading to collisions, while in others, it failed to recognize road hazards altogether. These incidents raised questions about the readiness of autonomous systems for widespread adoption and the ethical responsibility of companies deploying such technology. Takeaway for Educators: Use real-world examples to discuss AI’s limitations. Encourage students to think about the ethical implications of autonomous systems. Thought for Students: Ask yourself, “How can we make AI safer and more reliable?” Your innovations could save lives. Missteps in Customer Service The Failure: A chatbot advised a business owner to violate legal regulations. In another case, a virtual assistant provided inaccurate airline policy information, leading to financial disputes. For example, a passenger was misled into buying an expensive ticket under false promises of a refund, resulting in a legal battle. These failures underscore the risks of poorly designed AI systems in customer-facing roles. Takeaway for Educators: Teach students the value of user education. Highlight the risks of relying solely on AI for critical decisions. Thought for Students: An AI answer isn’t the final word. Learn to spot errors and seek clarification when needed. AI and False Promises The Failure: A company used AI-generated content in marketing, leading to celebrity likenesses being used without consent. For instance, Tom Hanks’ image was digitally recreated to promote a product he never endorsed. Similarly, AI-created promotional materials for events failed to deliver on their promises, leaving customers disappointed and businesses facing backlash. Takeaway for Educators: Discuss intellectual property and ethical marketing practices. Teach students how to use AI responsibly in creative projects. Thought for Students: AI can enhance creativity, but integrity matters. Make sure your work respects others’ rights. Drive-Thru Chaos: When AI Fumbles The Failure: An AI system implemented in McDonald’s drive-thrus led to widespread frustration. Customers reported repeated errors in orders, including accidental bulk purchases of items. One incident involved an AI misinterpreting a customer’s order and adding 260 chicken nuggets. These mistakes became viral moments on social media, damaging the brand’s reputation. Takeaway for Educators: Use this as a case study in user experience design. Teach students how to anticipate user needs and design for reliability. Thought for Students: Technology should make life easier, not harder. Think about how your designs impact real people. Ethical Red Flags in AI Training The Failure: Microsoft’s chatbot became offensive after being exposed to toxic online interactions. This highlighted the risks of using unfiltered data to train AI models. Within hours, the chatbot began spewing racist and offensive language, forcing Microsoft to shut it down. The failure demonstrated the importance of curating training data and monitoring AI behavior. Takeaway for Educators: Teach data ethics and the importance of curation in AI training. Discuss the consequences of neglecting proper oversight. Thought for Students: The quality of an AI system depends on its training data. Be mindful of what you feed your algorithms. Final Thoughts AI has the power to revolutionize the workplace, but only if used wisely. These failures serve as reminders that humans must guide AI development. For educators, these stories are opportunities to prepare students for thoughtful, ethical, and informed AI use. Remember: Mistakes aren’t the end—they’re a chance to learn. Equip your students to face AI challenges head-on and contribute to a better, smarter future. Our new course, AI for the Workplace , helps educators and learners navigate this evolving landscape. This program provides an industry-recognized certificate and equips students with practical skills to harness AI as a versatile tool across various career paths, trades, and technologies. The course bridges the gap between understanding AI concepts and applying them effectively in real-world scenarios. Want to learn more? Click here or call us at 913-764-4272 to schedule a free 20-minute demo of any of our courses and certifications.