Our CTO Andres Kütt joined a thoughtful discussion at the Kultuurikatel courtyard tower, where members of the ITL (Estonian Association of Information Technology and Telecommunications) ICT Cluster gathered to explore future skills and learning models in the age of AI.
Together with Jaak Vilo (University of Tartu), Oleg Shvaikovsky (AI Council at the Ministry of Education and Research), and Tanel Tammet (TalTech – Tallinn University of Technology), Andres shared insights on how AI is already reshaping both education and the workplace. The session was moderated by Agu Leinfeld (Value.Space), with additional input from Urve Mets (Kutsekoda).
One key takeaway: The last major shift designed entirely by humans is happening right now, and we’re likely underestimating the long-term effects of AI. It’s not a question of human vs. machine, but whether humans know how to use the machine.
As traditional career models evolve, so must our ways of learning and teaching. The challenge isn’t just to teach facts but to empower people to ask the right questions and to find smarter ways of doing things.
The conversation also raised a tough question: What happens when AI agents become more cost-effective than junior developers?
This isn’t just a tech question, it’s a leadership challenge. The focus must shift from replacement to augmentation: How do we harness AI to amplify human potential, accelerate learning, and create space for people to grow into senior roles that machines can’t fill?
And yet, what are the skills that will remain essential – perhaps even grow in importance – as the world changes?
Creativity, empathy, co-creation, genuine curiosity, and the ability to bridge theory and practice. These are not just “soft skills”, they’re the foundation for navigating complexity, working with intelligent systems, and building something truly new.