The Impact of Evolving Technology on the DSM Workforce

During the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Future Ready DSM podcast, guests share insights about the employment landscape for people entering the workforce, as well as those looking to advance or change their career paths with The Partnership’s Senior Vice President of Talent Development Dr. Marvin DeJear. 

Podcast guest Beth Nigut serves as executive vice president and chief people officer for EMC Insurance Companies where she supports the corporate strategy, data analytics, human resources, innovation and marketing and communications teams. In her role, the goal is to create a synergy between internal and external stakeholders. Nigut is also chair of The Partnership’s 2021 talent development committee where she supports the organization’s vision and commitment to a robust and inclusive community.

The Impact of Tech at EMC

Nigut said that EMC is currently in the midst of a digital transformation, updating legacy systems to cloud-based platforms, training employees to adapt in both the short- and long-term. As the company migrates from the legacy platform, the workforce must leverage knowledge transfer to elevate, or upscale, and prepare for a constantly changing future.

Types of AI Changes

When it comes to artificial intelligence, or AI, Nigut touched on the fact that AI does not replace the human element. AI should complement and augment what EMC does, creating efficiencies in processes and making a more effective business. The human element becomes even more critical with data-informed decision-making, leading to critical conversations that include empathy and judgement, which are human skills that won’t be replaced.

Skills + Competencies for EMC Employees

According to Nigut, human skillsets are vitally important. The following are a few of the skills that will be needed in the future workforce:

·      Growth Mindset

·      Curiosity

·      Critical Thinking Skills

·      Strategic Mindset

·      Empathy

Nigut and DeJear also discussed existing plans for developing current employees, including tuition reimbursement, as well as the importance of focusing on diversity and inclusion. 

Listen to the entire podcast above.

The Future Ready DSM podcast brings Greater Des Moines (DSM) employment leaders and experts in to discuss the latest trends in talent attraction and retention in the region. Hosted by Greater Des Moines Partnership Senior Vice President of Talent Development Dr. Marvin DeJear.