
TOKYO -- Japan's dire labor shortage is well-documented, and the burgeoning artificial intelligence industry is not immune. The expected shortfall in AI experts, however, is creating opportunities for talented individuals with disabilities as some companies adopt an all-hands-on-deck mindset.
In November, Persol Challenge, a subsidiary of job placement group Persol Holdings, opened an AI training center in Tokyo for people with developmental disabilities, including those with autism spectrum disorder. The Neuro Dive center offers a selection of about 200 online classes, including programming and deep learning. The courses last six months to a year; 10 students are currently enrolled.