Artificial intelligence (AI) in the workforce is continually a hot topic. It is advancing rapidly in all sectors with AI integrations like ChatGPT and AI-driven sensors in manufacturing. Across industries, professionals are looking to the future through an AI-focused lens. Learn how to adapt to this new reality that interweaves smart tech with existing careers — and creates new pathways for you to follow.

The Intersection of AI and Careers

Automation, in particular, is disrupting traditional jobs across various sectors. Labor positions will likely be replaced by AI, and most other career paths will be influenced by AI in some capacity. Of those workers being replaced by AI, about 80% of them are expected to make less than $38,000 per calendar year moving forward. However, this doesn’t have to be the case.

Labor unions are surprisingly optimistic about the benefits that AI can bring to the industry. AI-related roles are on the rise, including positions like data scientists, machine learning engineers, AI ethicists, and automation specialists for specific AI-driven tech. These professionals play a crucial role in designing, developing, and implementing AI systems across many industries, and these positions offer a new, exciting path for existing professionals who may be worried about the future of their jobs with AI. Their existing expertise in the field gives them a leg up and allows them to use AI to further their career rather than thwart it.

Is AI in the Workplace Even Ethical?

Job displacement is a legitimate concern. AI can impact workers’ rights by instituting job changes without adequate protections. This needs to be addressed in all industries to see the successful and ethical implementation of AI.

Algorithmic biases can also make their way into automated systems. Humans design the tech that is used to automate processes, which means conscious and unconscious biases can be written into the code. This can affect everything from hiring diversity to marketing efficacy.

How To Adapt to an AI-Driven Workforce

It is possible to adapt effectively to an AI-driven workforce. Employers and employees, alike, must change the way they view AI technology and use it to their advantage.

Focus on the Benefits

Employees can embrace AI’s benefits by recognizing its potential to enhance their work through human-robot collaboration. For example, AI can:

Enhance productivity by automating repetitive tasks, freeing up time for more strategic work;
Foster innovation, sparking creativity and opening new avenues for product development;
Improve the employee experience by enhancing collaboration, offering insights on employee satisfaction, and streamlining processes;
Reducing errors by detecting anomalies and reducing costly human error.

It’s important to keep these benefits in mind to have an optimistic outlook on AI in the workforce.

Consider Upskilling and Reskilling

As AI becomes more prevalent in the workplace, professionals at all stages of their careers should consider upskilling or reskilling. While some jobs will not be replaced by AI, like general contractors, mechanics, and healthcare workers, all types of professionals can benefit from learning how to integrate AI into their skill sets effectively. Advancing your skills in a specific field or adding AI-focused skills to your repertoire can position you to get higher-paying, more fulfilling careers in the future. This can help you stay relevant, especially if you regularly update your skills to align with tech advancements.

Moving Forward

In an AI-driven workforce, it’s helpful to set aside fear and embrace the skills needed to thrive. Learning new skills that incorporate AI, like machine learning or automation management, can give you increased confidence to push forth in your career. Regardless of where AI takes the workforce, you are ready to adapt.