DIRECT: A Framework for Diagnosis, Recommendation, and Training in Continuous Workforce Development

With increasing adoption of new technologies such as robots, experts expect a growing disparity between the skills of current US workers and the requirements of future jobs. Using artificial intelligence-enabled components, the DIRECT framework develops a vertically complete upskilling and reskilling pipeline in manufacturing-related industries. It connects workers to future jobs and helps them plan future career paths using AI algorithms trained on large-scale worker, job, and training resources, and provides efficient on-the-job training (OJT) through an intelligent AI-enabled platform. Project partners include large international manufacturing corporations, small local plants, and public workforce agencies throughout the United States.

Funding: NSF Convergence Accelerator Pilot: $838,722.