Artificial Intelligence and Humans as Partners of Work – can it be Done?

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As Jamaica’s markets advance their digital transformation, many worry that workers will be forced to compete with intelligent technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI). Yet Sheldon Powe argues that people and AI can thrive together in the workplace.

What AI Really Means

At its core, AI involves the development of smart systems that can perform tasks traditionally associated with human intelligence—reasoning, understanding, learning and perception. Rather than replacing employees outright, these tools often augment human capabilities.

AI as a Workplace Partner, Not a Replacement

Sheldon Powe, Chief Executive Officer of Innovate 10X, immediate past president of the Jamaica Computer Society and former Chief Information Officer at Jamaica Money Market Brokers, shared his perspective with the Jamaica Observer. He emphasised that in most practical applications, AI is designed to work alongside people rather than eliminate them.

“Take the security sector, for example. Drones now allow a single firm to serve far more clients than before. Instead of placing guards in every location—some of which may be difficult to monitor effectively—technology extends human reach,” Powe explained.

“A team of five security professionals can now oversee a much larger area than was previously possible. Technology and human expertise operate in tandem,” he added.

Realistic Timelines for AI Adoption

Responding to Technology Minister Fayval Williams, who cited research projecting that 30 percent of everyday businesses would integrate AI into their digital strategies by 2026, Powe noted that while this timeline may be ambitious, meaningful adoption could occur within the next couple of years.

“It will take time. Many sectors in Jamaica remain largely paper-based. When people are earning an income, they are often reluctant to change what already works,” he observed.

Learning from Global Leaders

Powe suggested that Jamaica could draw valuable lessons from digitally advanced nations such as Estonia. By studying its policies and frameworks, the Jamaican government could craft guidelines tailored to local needs.

To strengthen Jamaica’s global competitiveness, he called for a government-led AI awareness initiative. Such a programme would educate citizens about the benefits of AI, highlight new opportunities for growth and innovation, and present a balanced, positive narrative.

“It’s about showing people how AI can make their jobs more engaging while automating the repetitive tasks they prefer to avoid,” Powe said, referencing the potential of machine learning to handle routine work.

Preparing the Next Generation

He also recommended updating university curricula to ensure students graduate with the skills and confidence needed to work effectively with emerging technologies.

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In 2026 the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report highlighted that Jamaica’s economic progress continues to be constrained by limited adoption of information and communication technologies and low productivity capacity.

Powe recently participated as a panellist in the “Scaling with AI” fireside chat, hosted by the Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship Caribbean in partnership with the US Embassy.

“Roles that are being partially displaced are being replaced by more interesting opportunities. This is the future of work in Jamaica—these are the areas where new prospects will emerge. We need to encourage people to position themselves for these exciting developments,” he concluded.

The Branson Centre and the US Embassy have signed a memorandum of understanding to co-host three fireside discussions aimed at bringing together industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and experts to address key issues affecting regional entrepreneurship.

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