AI Training for IT Leaders

Alright, buckle up, buttercups! Kara Stock Skipper here, ready to navigate the digital seas with you! Today, we’re charting a course for the Philippines, where the waves of AI are crashing in, and our main vessel, PLDT, and its trusty sidekick, Smart Communications, are leading the charge. We’re diving deep into how they’re not just riding the AI wave, but building the surfboard for the entire nation. We’re talking about the Manila Times article that highlighted PLDT and Smart’s launch of AI training for IT leaders – a signal that these companies aren’t just playing the game; they’re changing the rules. So, let’s get this voyage underway!

PLDT, Smart launch AI training for IT leaders – The Manila Times

The winds of change are blowing strong, and PLDT (Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company) and Smart Communications are catching the gale. This isn’t just about fancy tech; it’s a complete strategic overhaul, transforming PLDT and Smart into the digital powerhouses the Philippines needs. This transformation has many facets, focusing on internal development, partnerships, and community support.

First mate, let’s talk about the crew. PLDT knows that a ship is only as good as its sailors. So, they’re putting their money where their mouth is and investing heavily in their workforce. This isn’t just a few online courses; we’re talking about a full-blown “AI & Innovation Skilling Program,” designed to equip everyone from the captain to the deckhands with practical AI skills. This proactive move goes beyond simply telling employees *about* AI; it empowers them to *lead* with it, recognizing that mastering these new technologies is critical for future success. They aren’t just teaching, they’re training leaders. The “Technical Leadership Program” and “Digital Master Program” are like advanced maritime academies, designed to accelerate their talent’s digital intelligence. This internal focus is the backbone of PLDT’s strategy, ensuring a steady stream of skilled professionals ready to tackle the ever-evolving digital landscape. They are not just building a company; they’re building a culture of innovation.

But the journey doesn’t end there. PLDT isn’t keeping its AI secrets to itself. They’re spreading the wealth of knowledge, offering it to MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) and freelancers through programs like “AI-in-a-Box”. This hands-on training is like giving the little guys a ship of their own, allowing them to navigate the digital world and compete with the big boys. By training MSMEs and freelancers, PLDT is boosting the economy and ensuring that the entire nation benefits from AI’s advancements. Furthermore, their outreach to communities, like their work with Meranaw cooperatives, proves that they’re not just about profits; they’re about creating a future where everyone can sail. They’re not just building a business; they’re building a society. They are democratizing access to AI to help every Filipino entrepreneur and worker thrive in the digital era.

Now, you can’t have a successful voyage without a solid hull. PLDT and Smart are building the foundation of digital infrastructure, including data centers through Vitro Inc., and building Vitro Academy to develop future leaders. They are also committed to ethical and responsible AI practices, ensuring that their journey is not only successful but also sustainable. PLDT and Smart are also focused on data security, including their e-waste program to show that they care about the sustainability of their business. All these initiatives demonstrate their commitment to responsible innovation.

This commitment is not just about internal changes. It’s part of a larger, national strategy to transform the Philippines into a digital powerhouse. PLDT sees AI as a key driver for automation, productivity, and better governance. This vision is supported by substantial investments in infrastructure and a clear commitment to responsible growth. Their participation in industry events and their recognition by LinkedIn as an AI Pioneer further solidify their position. They’re not just reacting to change; they’re actively shaping the future.

So, what’s the takeaway? PLDT and Smart are not just dipping their toes into the AI waters; they’re diving in headfirst, and they’re taking everyone with them. From workforce development to community outreach, ethical governance to cutting-edge infrastructure, they’re building a digital ecosystem that will benefit all Filipinos. It’s an integrated approach. It’s a commitment to innovation. It’s a mission to empower everyone.

Land ho! We’ve arrived at our destination. PLDT and Smart are more than just telecommunications companies; they are navigators of the digital age. They’re showing the world that the future is not just about technology, it’s about people. Their commitment to upskilling, empowering MSMEs, supporting communities, and ensuring responsible governance is a beacon of hope for the Philippines. They’re not just sailing; they’re charting a course for a brighter, more inclusive future, and you and I, my friends, get to watch it all unfold. That’s the kind of voyage I can get behind! Y’all ready for another adventure? Let’s roll!