Afternoon Panel Debate: Will AI replace skills, or help you build them?
05 March 2026 | 12:30pm - 3:30pm (GMT)
Edinburgh
Overview
This panel brings together industry leaders to discuss how AI is reshaping Scotland’s skills landscape and what this means for your workforce. Panellists will tackle the myth that AI replaces junior roles, instead exploring how work is evolving, where human skills remain essential, and how organisations can build a resilient, future-ready talent pipeline.
If you’re unsure whether apprenticeships are relevant for your existing workforce, this discussion will challenge assumptions and share what’s working in practice. A key focus of the discussion will be the role of apprenticeships and structured, funded training in that pipeline - not only as a route for new entrants, but as a powerful way to upskill, engage and retain existing employees. Through real employer insight and learner experience, the panel will explore how organisations are using apprenticeships to adapt roles, close skills gaps and develop talent from within in an AI-enabled workplace.
The session will highlight the opportunities AI presents, the risks of inaction, and the shared responsibility between employers, providers and policymakers to support the development of Scotland’s tech and data skills at every career stage. The event concludes with QA’s Scottish Apprentice of the Year Award, sponsored by Microsoft, celebrating apprentices who are making a real impact in their organisations.
If you would like to register your interest to attend, please fill out the form below and we will be in touch.
Why attend?
- Hear from industry experts on how AI is changing skills needs across Scotland
- Understand where human capability remains vital and how early-career talent can thrive
- Gain clarity on the risks of inaction and the opportunities AI presents for employers
- Contribute to a constructive discussion with peers and ask questions directly to the panel
- Celebrate Scotland’s emerging talent with QA’s Scottish Apprentice of the Year Award, sponsored by Microsoft