Melbourne edtech HEX has launched a workplace simulation platform designed to help students gain practical experience as AI reshapes entry-level jobs.
WorkSim puts learners in a simulated remote team, where they tackle business problems, communicate with stakeholders and use AI.
The platform seeks to complement existing courses and work-integrated learning programs, to give students who may struggle to secure internships, or lack professional networks workplace experiences and understanding.
RMIT University has already enrolled more than 400 students. Educators and students from its College of Vocational Education helped co-design the WorkSim, which is now part of the Diploma of Business.
HEX cofounder and CEO Jeanette Cheah said educaters and employers needed to rethink how young people enter the workforce.
“Industry has sprinted to redesign work around AI – without redesigning the implicit, historical promise to support young people entering the workforce,” she said.
“I personally believe it’s up to us to make sure that promise is not abandoned, and it’s great to see so many industry leaders getting involved with WorkSim – as one way they can reimagine and keep it.”
The partner network includes Atlassian Foundation, Canva Foundation, Automation Anywhere, RMIT, Xero, Stone & Chalk, The Adelaide Fringe and Pledge 1%.
Available and upcoming streams cover business strategy, marketing, automation, grants for creatives, product management, entrepreneurship and accounting.
One Roof is supporting business strategy, while the Adelaide Fringe stream focuses on grants and funding for people in creative industries. Xero is backing the entrepreneurship and accounting streams, while Automation Anywhere’s program asks learners to analyse business workflows and recommend where automation and AI could help.
RMIT’s Ngoc Le Chow said students needed opportunities to apply classroom learning before graduating.
“The WorkSim internship was embedded into the Diploma of Business to help students prepare for the reality of the modern workplace before graduation,” she said.
HEX wants universities, education providers, industry organisations and government partners to explore how WorkSim can support their students.
More at startwithhex.com/program/worksim.
