UL’s Prof Martin Hayes discusses his systems theory research, why ‘pi-shaped’ graduates are the future of engineering, and the importance of patience. Hayes’ research looks at how to manage system resources intelligently when they’re subject to uncertainty or mixed messaging introduced by communication channels, sensors or human operators. A large part of his work focuses on the “robust” performance of AI in safety-critical environments. “How do we correctly choose settings when an AI system’s outputs feed into decision-making by people, without getting that handoff wrong?” “UL’s contribution to the SUSA digital ecosystem draws on existing UL@Work advisory board models and Skillnet partnerships to keep the curriculum grounded in current workplace needs.”