Is Your Job at Risk? New Study Uncovers the Professions Most Vulnerable to AI by 2030

Last Updated on August 10, 2023 by Robert C. Hoopes

Title: “AI Acceleration Poised to Reshape U.S. Labor Market: New Study Reveals”

In a groundbreaking study, it has been revealed that the U.S. labor market is undergoing significant transformations due to the acceleration of artificial intelligence (AI). According to the study conducted by the Pew Research Center, workers in several industries are switching occupations, while others face changing job prospects as a result of AI implementation.

The study highlights that approximately 8.6 occupational shifts have already occurred, with employees from sectors such as food services, in-person sales, and office support positions leaving for alternative careers. On the other hand, professionals specialized in health, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), transportation, warehousing, business, and legal fields are expected to experience growth under AI.

Pew Research Center’s data indicates that nearly one-fifth of U.S. workers have a “high exposure” to AI. As generative AI emerges with its remarkable language capabilities and automation features, the labor market is witnessing a revolution.

Furthermore, the study predicts that an additional 12 million occupational shifts are projected to take place within the next seven years, further accentuating the transformative impact of AI. Despite these changes, certain industries such as creative arts, property maintenance, education, building, community service, agriculture, and mechanics are expected to remain stable with slower growth.

A key finding of the study is that workers are increasingly willing to switch careers, and employers are broadening their hiring practices due to tighter labor markets. Fast food counter workers, cooks, waitstaff, retail sales professionals, cashiers, and hairstylists are among the most common job positions from which workers are departing.

The study also predicts that AI tools will be able to automate approximately 30% of the hours currently worked by 2030. Notably, workers earning less than $40,000 annually are more likely to change occupations due to the impacts of AI.

An in-depth analysis highlighted that workers in science, technology, finance, insurance, real estate, and public administration have the highest exposure to AI, whereas managerial, administrative, and food services industries have the least exposure. Interestingly, workers in professional, scientific, and technical services tend to perceive AI as a positive influence on their jobs.

However, there is an element of uncertainty among workers in the hospitality, services, and arts sectors regarding the impact AI will have on their jobs. This phenomenon calls for a better understanding of the implications and potential consequences of AI implementation within these industries.

As AI continues to shape the U.S. labor market, it is evident that both employees and employers must adapt to these transformative changes. By embracing the opportunities AI presents and actively reskilling and upskilling their workforce, businesses and workers alike can navigate this new era with confidence.