The inaugural Empowering Women in IT Conference highlights a new alliance between Mexico and India to boost female representation in technology. Meanwhile, Mexican businesses remain cautious about generative AI despite its potential benefits, as revealed by the latest Digital Maturity Report. On the international front, Latin America and the Caribbean grapple with a severe shortage of cybersecurity professionals, adding to security risks and costs. Furthermore, a revived lawsuit against Meta Platforms over alleged discrimination against US workers could influence tech hiring practices. Additionally, the growing preference for Master’s degrees in AI reflects the field’s increasing complexity, while challenges around talent hoarding and mental health in HR underscore pressing issues in workforce management.
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Mexico
The inaugural Empowering Women in IT Conference, hosted by the India-Mexico Business Chamber (IMBC) and Instituto Superior Universitario UNIVERSAE, highlighted Mexico’s focus on gender inclusivity in technology. The conference led to a partnership between the two countries to enhance female representation in tech through knowledge exchange. Despite 55% of Mexican university graduates being women, only 13.5% enter STEM fields.
Mexican companies are cautious about adopting generative AI despite recognizing its benefits, according to Needed Education’s 2024 Digital Maturity Report. Although 87% of executives see the need for an AI strategy and over 80% expect positive impacts on employee experience, most are not planning to invest in generative AI soon. Applications are limited to specific functions like meeting transcriptions and text generation, with minimal cross-functional integration. CEOs lead non-generative AI initiatives, and only 5% are adopting generative AI due to ethical and complexity concerns. Challenges include legal requirements and talent shortages, with key skills being digital mindset and data-driven decision-making.
International
Latin America and the Caribbean face a cybersecurity skills shortfall of 1.3 million professionals, increasing risks and costing companies over US$1 million per breach, according to Fortinet’s 2024 report. The shortage heightens security risks, with 70% of companies citing it as an added risk. Corporate leaders face severe consequences, including fines and job loss, for breaches. Fortinet emphasizes training, certification, and workforce diversification to address the gap.
A US appeals court has revived a lawsuit against Meta Platforms, alleging discrimination against US citizens in favor of cheaper foreign workers. The 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that a Civil War-era law prohibiting discrimination based on "alienage" applies to US citizens, overturning a previous dismissal. The lawsuit, filed by naturalized US citizen Purushothaman Rajaram, claims Meta prioritizes visa holders over American workers. The decision, which contrasts with a 1986 5th Circuit ruling, may prompt further legal action and impact tech companies' hiring practices. Meta denies wrongdoing, and the case may reach the US Supreme Court if appealed.
Industry Developments
Employers are increasingly favoring candidates with Master’s degrees in AI due to the field's complexity, according to a National University report. While Bachelor's degrees are still accepted, 75% of employers prefer advanced degrees for specialized AI roles. Advanced degrees are valued for their problem-solving skills and expertise. However, CompTIA notes that many AI jobs focus on applying existing technologies rather than creating new ones, and only about half of employers require advanced degrees. The trend reflects the need for upskilling in AI and related fields, with education and certification programs striving to keep pace with rapid technological advancements.
Retaining talent is challenging, especially as younger employees seek growth. Talent hoarding by managers restricts movement and increases turnover.. Nearly half of Gen Z and Millennials leave jobs within a year if career aspirations are ignored. Companies supporting internal mobility retain twice as much talent. In Mexico, 97% of employees stay longer at companies prioritizing mobility. Managers should view employees as adaptable individuals, not static assets. Talent marketplaces allow employees to explore new roles, benefiting both employees and managers, suggests Deloitte.
HR professionals are hesitant to use mental health benefits despite high awareness, highlighting a gap between corporate support and HR's personal experiences. At SHRM's annual conference, it was reported that 89% know about these benefits, but 26% feel uncomfortable using them. SHRM emphasizes the need for better cultural alignment and transparent communication to support mental health. Practical steps include adopting healthier habits and fostering genuine interactions. Addressing these issues can create healthier work environments and improve organizational effectiveness.
Leadership anxiety can negatively impact team performance and morale through emotional contagion, particularly in hybrid work settings. Research shows that anxious online behavior from leaders can elevate team stress, affecting job satisfaction and productivity. A study analyzed leaders' social media posts and found that their anxiety significantly increased their followers' stress levels for up to two days. Leaders need to manage their digital presence and communication style carefully to prevent spreading anxiety. Effective stress management and mindful communication are crucial for maintaining a positive work environment and fostering team resilience, says Harvard Business Review.