Edward Rothberg, CEO and Co-Founder of Gurobi Optimization, is working towards closing the skills gap in mathematical optimization and decision intelligence. Building an optimization model requires a specialized set of skills, including understanding complex business problems, identifying improvement opportunities, building models, and refining them based on results. Educational resources like webinars, case studies, and training events can help bridge this gap for new learners, but advanced topics remain a challenge.
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is a new technology that has the potential to address this skills gap. Tools like ChatGPT can answer technical questions, help build applications, or even build applications themselves. Gurobi has explored the application of GenAI in their field and found promising results. ChatGPT 3.5 initially provided underwhelming answers, but ChatGPT 4 produced accurate responses to user questions, showing potential as a valuable resource for optimization learners.
As GenAI technology advances, the question arises whether learning optimization will become obsolete. While tools like GitHub Copilot can assist with coding tasks, more complex optimization tasks still require human thinking and expertise. GenAI may enhance optimization skills by translating complex problems into models, allowing human experts to focus on refining their skills. AI systems can complement human expertise, making optimization tools more effective by improving model quality.
Despite the potential of GenAI, it is unlikely to fully replace optimization skills, especially in areas that require understanding real-world business processes and communication. Optimization modeling involves not only creating models but also ensuring they address business needs over time. Human experience and communication skills are vital in this aspect, which AI systems may struggle to replicate. However, as AI systems improve, they can play a significant role in translating problem descriptions into optimization models, complementing human expertise and productivity.
Forbes Technology Council is an exclusive community for top technology executives, including CIOs and CTOs. Edward Rothberg’s work with Gurobi Optimization reflects a commitment to leveraging new technologies like GenAI to enhance optimization skills and bridge the skills gap in mathematical optimization. As AI continues to evolve, it has the potential to revolutionize the field of optimization, but human expertise and experience will remain crucial in translating business needs into effective optimization models.
