How machine learning is improving job transitions through skills matchmaking

Researchers have developed a machine learning-based system that acts as a skills matchmaker to assist with the process of effective job transitions.

Restrictions and lockdowns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic have upended the livelihoods of many people around the world. In Australia, more than half a million casual workers alone lost their jobs in 2020 accounting for around two-thirds of the total of displaced workers by mid-2020. From hospitality workers and shop assistants, through to tourism operators, café owners and arts and entertainment workers – just to name a few – many have been forced to undertake the difficult and sometimes distressing job transition challenge of finding a new occupation quickly.

In reality, COVID-19 is a harsh crisis that has accelerated the inexorable effects of ongoing technological and economic changes which impact work in many ways. In historically normal times, the typical Australian will change careers five to seven times during…