Mathematics: the basic building block of a good career

A new era of mathematics has grown alongside the emergence of new digital tools, especially with the growth of AI and machine learning. This new era of mathematics influences the new digital tools that are created. In turn, the new digital tools are driving mathematics forward and creating foundations for emerging professions.

The world of work has undergone a series of changes over the years. Within a single generation, we have observed the evolution from the industrial landscape to the information economy in the 1990s and early 2000s. Then there was the transition to the second era of the internet, dominated by social media platforms, which came to be called Web 2.0. This transition paved the way for the monumental surge of tech start-ups over the last two decades.

But today, the transformation of work is even more dramatic than in the recent past. Just in the last several months, a fresh chapter of change has been written in the story of work, with an unprecedented paradigm shift taking centre stage: the ascent of artificial intelligence (AI). Here’s all you need to know from Ian VanderBurgh, Director, Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing, University of Waterloo.

AI is grounded in mathematics

Organisations of all kinds are rapidly integrating AI into their operations, a move signalling their belief that AI is essential to the future viability of their businesses. And they are correct.

AI has become the catalyst for reshaping the operational landscapes of every organisation, from redefining consumer interactions to revolutionising commercial paradigms. The domain of AI extends beyond the corporate sphere, exerting its influence on public sector institutions spanning education, government, and other civic services.

To put the impact of AI into context, recent research by the World Economic Forum shows that waves of AI advancements are set to create 97 million new jobs by 2025.

This new world of work demands a specific set of skills to harness the potential of AI, one that both complements and transcends the traditional roles of doctors, lawyers, and engineers. The torchbearers of this new era are mathematicians and computer scientists.

With their deep knowledge of algorithms, mathematicians play a pivotal role in tailoring AI and machine learning tools, crafting bespoke programmes that underpin diverse functions. From fine-tuned inventory management to conversational chatbots, seamless shipping logistics, and intricate budgeting and payroll systems – mathematicians stand at the vanguard of this transformation.

Mathematicians from outside computer science developing AI

In recent years, AI expertise has extended beyond computer science and is now an integral part of diverse research areas in pure math, applied math, statistics, combinatorics and optimisation.

Even though they are outside conventional definitions of computer science, these disciplines resonate with AI’s rhythms. Combinatorics and optimisation, for example, delve into streamlining processes in various domains of business and industry. Students in this field are equipped with the expertise to create and deploy AI, catalysing radical optimisations within organisational frameworks.

Unsurprisingly, industry titans recognize the extraordinary potential of these skills, often swiftly recruiting our graduates fresh from their immersive work placements.

Where once Web 2.0 was the dominant force in innovation, the new AI-driven era is coming to the front. For many of us, the unknowns associated with these new and powerful tools are, frankly, scary. As we have seen recently from Geoffrey Hinton, the AI pioneer who is often known as the “Godfather of AI,” we need to exercise lots of caution.

Mathematics helps solve big problems

One big question is whether AI will replace human work in every domain of society. I believe the answer to be no. Everywhere we look around us, we see problems: the climate emergency, pandemics, drought, and lack of housing. Our world needs problem solvers, who don’t just follow a method that they’ve been taught, but who can think logically, critically, and creatively. And maths comes to the rescue.

It is this ancient discipline that teaches us how to solve problems in ways that no other discipline does. In other words, mathematics is not just for mathematicians – it is a pinnacle of our abilities as humans and one that can and will help all of us in the decades to come.

For mathematics educators like me, the implication is clear. It is a clarion call to reach out to students, teachers, and parents to spread the word. Mathematics is the way of the future – and not just textbook knowledge, but the thinking that we can do after we have these foundational skills. Prioritizing mathematics education is of fundamental importance to achieve success in the 21st century and beyond.