In this CIO Edge interview, Sandy Aitken, Technology Transformation Director at Cleanaway Waste Management, highlights the growing gap in foundational knowledge across technology disciplines, particularly in data and AI.

Many professionals excel in customer-facing applications but lack an understanding of the backend data structures that power AI-driven solutions.

ADAPT’s research reinforces this challenge, emphasising that true AI value is unlocked when businesses invest in strong data management and governance.

Without a solid technical foundation, AI adoption risks being superficial rather than transformative.

Sandy stresses the importance of flexible career development and practical learning experiences to build a resilient workforce.

He encourages employees to explore different technology domains, even outside their immediate job roles, to foster engagement and broaden their expertise.

This approach aligns with leading companies that invest in continuous learning, certifications, and cross-platform training, ultimately strengthening their multi-cloud capabilities.

ADAPT’s survey findings suggest that organisations with a strategic AI roadmap, supported by skilled professionals, are better positioned to drive efficiency, innovation, and long-term business success.

Beyond formal education, Sandy advocates for unconventional talent pipelines, such as recruiting from gaming communities or leveraging real-world problem-solving experiences.

By aligning individual passions with career development, businesses can attract and retain emerging talent in AI, cyber security, and cloud computing.

There is a need for greater industry collaboration to nurture homegrown skills, reduce reliance on imported talent, and ensure Australia remains competitive in the AI-driven economy.

 

Key takeaways:

  • Bridging the AI skills gap requires strong foundations: Many professionals excel in front-end AI applications but lack the necessary understanding of backend data structures. Without a solid technical foundation in data management and governance, AI adoption risks being ineffective.
  • Encouraging continuous learning and career flexibility: Organisations should promote cross-domain learning, upskilling, and multi-platform training to retain talent and strengthen AI capabilities. Providing employees with opportunities to explore different technologies fosters engagement and long-term business success.
  • Unconventional talent pipelines can strengthen the workforce: Businesses should look beyond traditional education models, recruiting talent from gaming communities and real-world problem solvers. Aligning individual passions with AI and tech careers can help close the skills gap and build a competitive, homegrown workforce.
Contributors
Sandy Aitken Technology Transformation Director at Cleanaway Waste Management
Sandy serves as Cleanaway Waste Management’s Technology Transformation Director. Previously, he played a pivotal role in leading Tabcorp’s technology transformation. Over two... More

Sandy serves as Cleanaway Waste Management’s Technology Transformation Director.

Previously, he played a pivotal role in leading Tabcorp’s technology transformation. Over two years, his strategic leadership was instrumental in executing complex network transformations and strategic outsourcing. Navigating through demergers and sales, his team modernized operations and maintained resilience during unprecedented challenges.

At IT Business Advisory, he applied over 30 years of IT strategy and consulting experience to clients’ unique needs, specializing in cloud strategy and digital transformation across all major cloud vendors.

His tenure included partnerships with pioneering companies like Anzend and Eclipz, introducing next-gen security and hybrid working solutions. With expertise in technology-enabled business transformation and enterprise IT strategy, he guided organizations through the evolving digital landscape. Together with his team, he enhanced service offerings in areas such as ERP cloud consulting, Big Data AI ML advisory, and applied automation, ensuring cutting-edge solutions for clients.

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Gabby Fredkin Head of Analytics & Insights at ADAPT
As the Head of Analytics and Insights at ADAPT, Gabby Fredkin’s primary role is managing analysis to produce ADAPT’s actionable insights to... More

As the Head of Analytics and Insights at ADAPT, Gabby Fredkin’s primary role is managing analysis to produce ADAPT’s actionable insights to identify trends supporting organisations in Australia.

With a passion for creating stories with data, Gabby is consistently rated as one of the top speakers at ADAPT’s events. In roundtable discussions, he specialises in using statistics to initiate thought-provoking discussions, enabling ADAPT’s customers to become more data-driven.​

Using modern data science techniques, he provides ADAPT and its customers with confidence in the accuracy and validity of the information used for ADAPT’s research, advisory and events.

Working across artificial intelligence, machine learning, AI ethics, DevSecOps, end-user behaviour, and human-centred design, Gabby’s vast experience continues to grow, supported in part by a Master of Business Analytics from Deakin University.

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skills leadership modernisation