Key Points:
- Hitachi is developing a generative AI system to capture and retain the unique expertise of retiring workers.
- The AI aims to help new employees learn from the intuitive experience gained by veterans in complex work environments.
- Hitachi’s AI system will use machine learning to simulate various scenarios, aiding in training and problem-solving.
Capturing Veteran Expertise Through AI
Hitachi is exploring the use of custom generative AI to preserve the knowledge and experience of its retiring workers. This initiative aims to capture the intuitive understanding that employees develop over years of working in complex environments like power stations and manufacturing facilities.
Training AI on Intuitive Worker Experience
The company is particularly interested in the nuanced, often hard-to-document aspects of worker experience, such as recognizing subtle changes in equipment or environmental conditions that could indicate potential issues. Hitachi’s AI system is designed to train on these insights, enabling it to assist in training new employees and troubleshooting.
Simulating Real-World Scenarios for Training
The AI system will be able to simulate various environments, such as control rooms or switching stations, and introduce malfunctions for trainees to address. This approach allows new workers to learn from past experiences and failures, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Text-Based AI for On-the-Job Assistance
In addition to the simulation-based training, Hitachi is also developing a text-based AI, similar to ChatGPT, to assist workers in real-time. This AI would provide a database of experiences from past employees, helping current workers address issues as they arise.
Addressing the Challenges of Generative AI
While generative AI offers promising solutions for knowledge transfer and training, it also faces challenges, such as the potential for “hallucinations” or generating inaccurate information. Ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the AI’s responses, especially in critical environments like power plants, is crucial for its successful implementation.
Food for Thought:
- How can generative AI effectively capture and transfer the intuitive knowledge of experienced workers to new employees?
- What are the potential benefits and challenges of using AI for training and problem-solving in complex work environments?
- How might Hitachi’s approach to AI-driven knowledge retention transform workforce training and development in other industries?
Let us know what you think in the comments below!
Author and Source: Article by Ryan Whitwam for ExtremeTech.
Disclaimer: Summary written by ChatGPT.