AI Impact on US Workers: Exploring Careers with High Exposure – My MBA Career

Last Updated on August 8, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: Pew Research Center Report Reveals the Impact of AI on U.S. Workers

A recent report from the Pew Research Center has shed light on how artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to affect the job market in the United States. The study shows that approximately 20% of American workers are currently employed in roles that are at a higher risk of being aided or replaced by AI technology.

Intriguingly, job positions that heavily rely on analytical skills, such as critical thinking, writing, science, and math, are considered to be more exposed to the advancements in AI. Professionals working in these fields may need to adapt and develop new skills to remain relevant in an increasingly automated world.

Surprisingly, the survey conducted by Pew revealed that workers in industries more exposed to AI are optimistic about its impact on their jobs. They believe that AI will actually assist them rather than harm their career prospects. This sentiment suggests that individuals in these fields have confidence in their ability to work in conjunction with AI technology, leveraging it as a tool rather than seeing it as a threat.

The report outlines jobs that are categorized as having high exposure to AI. These include positions such as budget analysts, data entry keyers, tax preparers, technical writers, and web developers. These professions are likely to see a substantial integration of AI in their day-to-day tasks.

On the other hand, roles with medium exposure to AI include chief executives, veterinarians, interior designers, fundraisers, and sales managers. While these occupations may not be as heavily impacted as those with high exposure, they still need to adapt to the changing landscape brought about by AI.

Jobs characterized by low exposure to AI include barbers, child care workers, dishwashers, firefighters, and pipelayers. These roles are expected to have minimal disruptions caused by AI technology.

Moreover, the Pew study noted that certain demographics are more exposed to AI due to the types of jobs they hold. Women, Asian workers, college-educated individuals, and higher-paid workers are found to be at a higher risk. Conversely, black and Hispanic workers have lower exposure.

Interestingly, the report highlights the correlation between income and exposure to AI. Workers in jobs with high exposure to AI earn an average of $33 per hour, while those in jobs with low exposure earn an average of $20 per hour. This suggests that higher-paying occupations may be more susceptible to AI integration.

Despite concerns about job displacement, the report highlights that many workers in highly exposed professions maintain an optimistic outlook on AI. For instance, 32% of information and technology workers believe that AI will ultimately assist them more than hurt them.

Overall, the Pew Research Center’s report indicates that opinions on AI’s impact are diverse. According to the study, 16% of U.S. adults believe AI will help more than hurt, 15% believe it will hurt more than help, 30% believe it will have an equal impact, and 32% remain unsure.

As AI continues to advance and integrate into the workforce, it becomes crucial for individuals to adapt and acquire new skills that complement and collaborate with these emerging technologies.