YES – Tech jobs
If you need to crunch numbers with accuracy, AI is definitely ready and able to do just that. Companies are asking their own software engineers, coders, developers, and programmers to ramp up the AI and automation systems that will eventually replace them. So, will AI replace computer programmers and software engineers? There’s no question that the technology sector is laser-focused on developing efficiencies and “hacks” to get things done quicker and cheaper. The advances in this field will determine how the sector will evolve, which jobs will become redundant, and which ones will see a surge in demand.
YES – Media jobs
Today’s media landscape has been reshaped by technology and innovation over the course of a century, according to TIME. From print to radio, and TV to digital, advertisers, marketers, journalists, and content producers have seen it all. Those who work in the media have quickly adapted, been laid off, or changed careers. Some roles will transform, like that of a news editor to a newsletter editor, while others will be replaced, like proofreaders.
YES – Telemarketers
You’ll know a “robocall”if you’ve ever received one from an unknown number with a pre-recorded or computer-generated message. While there are scams to watch out for, some automated calls that are informational rather than sales-oriented are frequently used by the healthcare sector, debt collectors, and charities. As for sales calls, Drips.com, a software company, has been replacing telemarketers with AI since before the pandemic, which has led to an increase in revenue.
YES – Bookkeepers
The companies that offer financial software services, like Turbotax and Quickbooks, have already replaced bookkeepers with self-serve and automated options for specific tasks. This is due to digital transformation rather than the use of AI. Even though AI will get the accounting profession up to speedthrough the automation of tasks like invoicing, auditing, and tax research, it won’t yet replace all the functions of a bookkeeper or accountant.
YES – Paralegals and legal assistants
The benefits of AI will transform the legal field. Automation is already used to produce contract drafts, cite relevant cases, and anticipate arguments by opposing counsel. These are many of the tasks that legal assistants and paralegals perform. While paralegals race to stay relevant as their roles are being threatened by AI, they will need to put a greater emphasis on their nuanced decision-making and interpersonal skills for job security.
YES – Finance jobs
Banks and financial institutions have already begun developing AI technology that gives investment advice. This generative AI, like ChatGPT, can analyze financial data at a rapid rate to deliver financial insights directly to customers. While clerical jobs will be the first to be impacted by AI, it’ll be bank tellers who see the impact of job loss rather than financial analysts and advisers. Financial institutions have already started cutting costs and reducing wait times by understaffing banks and adding more self-serve options to their websites and ATMs.
YES – Market research analysts
Many collect and analyze large volumes of information and then draw insights from them. Generative AI systems like ChatGPT and Google’s Bard reduce the time it takes to complete these tasks, which could threaten this particular role. However, while AI excels in data analysis and pattern recognition, market researchers bring intuition and the ability to ask follow-up questions that dig deeper into the data. The future of market research, therefore, lies in leveraging the collaboration between AI and human analysts.
YES – Receptionists
Similar to the way some clerical and administrative jobs will be replaced by AI in the finance and retail sectors, the same goes for administrative roles, regardless of the sector. Many offices have replaced the tasks a receptionist would typically take on with an online booking system and self-serve features at a kiosk, on their website, or through an app.
YES – Graphic designers
With tools like DALL-E, which lets you create AI-generated art for free, or Canva, a self-serve graphic design platform that also relies on AI, anyone can create beautiful images or marketing materials for their website, social media platforms or emails without collaborating with a skilled designer. Since creative work can’t be automated, those working in graphic communications roles need to get comfortable using AI for repetitive tasks so that they can focus on colour choices, aesthetics, and creating truly engaging experiences.
YES – Retail sales professionals
You’ve probably already seen or used the self-checkout aisles that dominate many major grocery store chains, big-box retailers, and pharmacies. Self-checkout aisles were first incorporated by these retailers to reduce labour costs but quickly proved to be no more profitable as they also needed to be staffed. While many retail sales professionals have been replaced by these self-checkout aisles, several retailers may be questioning their decision to opt for machines over people.
NO – Agricultural equipment operators
Leading the occupations that won’t get replaced by AI, according to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs report, are jobs in agriculture. Agricultural equipment operators will be the most popular AI-proof job in this field as the industry is set to grow by 30% in a short time and lead to an additional 3 million jobs. By supporting food production, habitats, and employment, agriculture is important for building strong economies through trade and will be instrumental in navigating the changes in our environment as a result of climate change.
NO – AI and machine learning specialists
It’s no surprise that the adoption of more AI across all industries will lead to more jobs to support and grow the capabilities of this technology. The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in the U.S. is seeking artificial intelligence specialists to improve its data collection systems. There are machine learning and AI certificate programs to train more people in this area, and tech companies like IBM are even offering courses in AI learning to support this transformation.
NO – Transportation services professionals
One of the fastest-growing sectors in the age of AI is transportation. Heavy truck and bus drivers lead the pack when it comes to jobs that won’t be replaced by AI. A common misconception is that truck drivers will be replaced by AI due to the emergence of autonomous vehicles. Truth is, not only is this sector seeing growth, but it is also seeing the benefits of incorporating AI into its systems and operations. As companies like Amazon and Walmart grow, more products will need to be transported across distances to reach customers in record time.
NO – Vocational teachers
Vocational teachers will be at the forefront when it comes to providing value for the future of work. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs report, there will be growth in this sector, resulting in an additional 3 million roles in education. AI won’t replace teachers, though it will reduce their workload in effective ways. Helping students build soft skills like active listening, leadership, and critical thinking is why educators can support a workforce that will thrive in the digital economy.
NO – Human resources professionals
As technology accelerates growth for many industries, it will be the people who are working in these industries who will need the most support as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. AI will certainly transform human resources operations, which helps professionals who support and retain talent in organizations to do so in insightful ways that truly align with the business.
NO – Political leaders and government officials
While governments have often been slow to adopt new practices, the more effective use of technology in the public sector can facilitate greater access and assistance to communities in need. And while it’s true that some fields and policy departments have already seen job decline due to generative AI and automation, a growing number of occupations emerge, like those in information technology (IT) and software development. But beyond this technological transformation, the important work of shaping policy and communicating ideas to the general population will remain the responsibility of political leaders and government officials.
NO – Mental health professionals
Following the pandemic, it became clear that there was a growing mental health crisis that needed attention, and fast. To help address this need, trained psychiatrists and psychologists have become invaluable to support mental health, well-being, and healing. When AI is used in mental healthcare, clinicians and therapists can rely on technology to diagnose conditions, develop therapies, and even reduce the need for medication in some cases. But their human skills cannot be replaced.
NO – Medical professionals
In healthcare, AI and automation can help streamline administration and lead to other advancements in the industry. In fact, it is estimated that the global market of AI in healthcare will grow to US$187.95 billion by 2030. Trained healthcare professionals will rely on AI technology to save lives, prevent diseases, and support wellness—but they will not be replaced by it.
NO – Skilled trades
If you need to get a leak in your bathroom fixed, an industrial facility built, or a beautifully designed, solid wood bookshelf constructed, AI is not going to be of any service to you whatsoever. With staffing shortages in the industry, the demand for skilled trades is on the rise. The level of skill, experience, and problem-solving instincts required for skilled tradespeople puts them in a competitive position for the future.
NO – Digital transformation professionals
Digital transformation, used to cut costs and improve the overall customer experience, has been around for some time. As more businesses, sectors, and governments make the switch to the digital environment—a movement that was accelerated by the pandemic and the rapid adoption of cloud-based technology—the need for specialists in this space has grown.