Adriana M. Valencia is the Energy, Water and Sanitation, and Climate Change Officer in the Strategic Planning and Knowledge Division of IDB Invest, the private sector institution of the Inter-American Development Bank Group (IDB). Adriana has more than 15 years of international development experience in energy and environmental issues. Prior to joining IDB Invest, Adriana served as an energy specialist in the Energy Division of the IDB. Adriana joined the IDB in 2010 and has participated as a team leader/co-team leader in several innovative initiatives and projects. Adriana has contributed to devising strategies with countries and guidance documents for different sectors to achieve development goals in 26 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean. Prior to joining the IDB, Adriana worked on sustainable energy, environment, and climate change issues at the World Bank and other entities at the country, state, and city levels. Adriana has published and spoken at several conferences. Her academic background includes a Ph.D. and a Master of Science in Energy and Resources from the University of California at Berkeley.
The region has a significant adaptation finance and investment gap ranging from $18 to $51 billion annually. Taking action now could reduce the vulnerabilities of businesses, increase the resilience of human and natural systems, and bring several additional benefits.
The 4th Industrial Revolution brings endless opportunities for the Caribbean. To exploit these opportunities, the private sector can partner with governments to deploy successful initiatives to prepare the current and future workforce for the emerging technologies.
New technologies and big data are increasing the demand for skills, including digital skills and high-level cognitive skills. Caribbean private sector can influence the types of skills it needs from its workforce and play an active role in increasing productivity and competitiveness in the region - and globally.