Datacom launches AI virtual work experience module

Datacom has launched a new virtual work experience module focused on "AI in the workplace", adding an artificial intelligence course to its set of online job simulations hosted on Forage.

The new simulation, titled "Partnering with AI in the workplace", is the sixth open-access course in Datacom's Forage line-up. Its simulations have recorded more than 42,000 enrolments since the first modules launched in 2023.

Datacom designed the simulations as short, online learning experiences that mirror tasks in entry-level technology roles. The modules are free and were originally developed for high school students, but the audience now ranges from university learners to people considering career changes.

AI skills gap

The launch comes amid wider debate in New Zealand about how quickly organisations are adopting AI tools and whether staff skills are keeping pace. Datacom cited its research showing 87% of New Zealand organisations use AI in their operations. It also found that 48% had offered AI skills training in the past six months, while a further 28% said they were planning to offer training.

Peter Nelson, Datacom's New Zealand managing director, said the new module responds to the gap between AI use and training.

"We created these courses to inspire people to explore a career in technology by giving them a chance to try it out and build confidence in their skills," Nelson said.

He linked the AI module to changes in the entry-level labour market, where students and early-career candidates face rising expectations around familiarity with AI tools.

"Given the rapid adoption of AI we're seeing, we believe it is hugely important that people have the knowledge they need to embrace AI and use it to their advantage. Getting started early is hugely beneficial to those entering the workplace, where demand for AI skills is growing but internal training initiatives aren't necessarily keeping pace. Datacom's AI research showed that 87% of New Zealand organisations are using AI in their operations, but that AI training is lagging. Just 48% of organisations had offered AI skills training within the last six months and a further 28% said they were 'planning to'. That level of skills training is well below where it needs to be," Nelson said.

Course content

The new AI simulation introduces prompt engineering, described as the ability to guide AI tools effectively. It also covers debugging techniques focused on troubleshooting and refining AI-generated outputs.

Lou Compagnone, Datacom's director of AI, said the learning design focuses on how people work alongside AI tools in everyday settings.

"AI is a tool that is being embraced across virtually every industry, so equipping people with the knowledge and skills they need to use AI effectively in their role is important," Compagnone said.

The module is designed around a workplace context, placing learners in a cross-functional team scenario. Activities include AI-assisted research and communicating insights.

Compagnone said the course emphasises judgement and critical thinking as well as tool use.

"We designed this simulation to help people understand how to collaborate with AI, not just use it. It's about learning how to ask the right questions, think critically and apply judgement - skills that employers are actively looking for," he said.

Broader programme

Forage also hosts Datacom's other simulations across cloud, automation, cybersecurity, software development and service desk work. Datacom initially developed modules for five pathways and has now added the AI simulation.

Its automation module is titled "Automation AI Accelerator: From Co-pilot to Autonomous Agent". It presents tasks aligned with automation developer work, including problem solving, AI automation and client management. Other modules include "Introduction to Cloud", "Software Development", "Cybersecurity", and "Service Desk".

Datacom said the simulations reflect its wider focus on developing local technology talent in New Zealand. Forage, which hosts the modules, is a global virtual experience platform and has recorded more than 10 million student engagements.

Datacom also shared performance indicators for the programme, including an average learner rating of 4.5 out of 5 for its simulations. It said 49 simulation users have been hired into Datacom since 2023, and high-performing participants may be invited to apply for early careers opportunities.

"Equipping young people with the skills of the future is at the heart of this platform, and we look forward to adding more simulations to the line-up," Nelson said.