Local technology company, Datacom, today announced the launch of a new “AI in the workplace” virtual work experience simulation designed to build confidence in critical tech skills.
Hosted on Forage, the new simulation is one of six free, open-access courses or job simulations, all of which have been designed to spark interest in technology careers and provide some practical upskilling in critical areas and to date have reached over 42,000 enrolments since its launch in 2023.
Datacom initially developed job simulations for five in-demand pathways – cloud, automation, cybersecurity, software development and service desk – and has now expanded its offering with the launch of a new AI job simulation “Partnering with AI in the workplace”, designed to help learners build foundational skills in one of the fastest-growing areas of tech.
“We created these courses to inspire people to explore a career in technology by giving them a chance to try it out and build confidence in their skills,” says Datacom New Zealand Managing Director, Peter Nelson.
“Given the rapid adoption of AI we’re seeing, we believe it is hugely important that people have the knowledge they need to embrace AI and use it to their advantage. Getting started early is hugely beneficial to those entering the workplace, where demand for AI skills is growing, but internal training initiatives aren’t necessarily keeping pace.
“Datacom’s AI research showed that 87% of New Zealand organisations are using AI in their operations, but that AI training is lagging. Just 48% of organisations had offered AI skills training within the last six months and a further 28% said they were ‘planning to’. That level of skills training is well below where it needs to be.”
Originally developed for high school students, the enrolments to date show the online courses appeal to a wide audience – from university learners to career changers.
The new “Partnering with AI in the workplace” job simulation introduces learners to the practical skill of prompt engineering – the ability to guide AI tools effectively to solve problems, communicate clearly and work smarter.
Learners also explore de-bugging techniques, helping them understand how to troubleshoot and refine AI outputs.
“AI is a tool that is being embraced across virtually every industry, so equipping people with the knowledge and skills they need to use AI effectively in their role is important,” says Lou Compagnone, Director of AI at Datacom.
“We designed this simulation to help people understand how to collaborate with AI, not just use it. It’s about learning how to ask the right questions, think critically and apply judgement – skills that employers are actively looking for.”
Datacom’s virtual work experience platform is part of a broader commitment to developing local tech talent across New Zealand. The programme is delivered via Forage, a global virtual experience platform that has hosted more than 10 million student engagements.
Among those learners who have completed Datacom’s job simulations, the average rating for these short online courses is 4.5 out of 5. Participants who excel in the simulations may be invited to apply for Datacom’s early careers opportunities, creating a clear pathway from learning to employment, with 49 simulation users being hired into the business since 2023.
“Equipping young people with the skills of the future is at the heart of this platform and we look forward to adding more simulations to line-up,” says Nelson.
