Jobs in jeopardy? 1 in 3 workers worry AI will replace them, study shows

Half of professionals fear being left behind by tech if they don’t upskill.

ChatGPT logo and AI Artificial Intelligence words are seen in this illustration taken, May 4, 2023. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File Photo

As artificial intelligence like ChatGPT becomes more advanced, American professionals are increasingly concerned about its impact on jobs and careers, a new survey from Washington State University reveals. About one-third of respondents said they worry AI could make some occupations redundant, while nearly half fear being left behind professionally if they don’t keep pace with new technologies.

These findings highlight the need for ongoing training in AI applications on the job and in college, according to Debbie Compeau, interim dean of WSU’s Carson College of Business who spoke to Axios. “There’s a lot of concern about, ‘Do I have the skills to do this?'” she said. “As a business school, we need to clearly show students how to use AI in the workplace.”

The online survey of 1,200 U.S. professionals found 48% worried their careers could stall if they miss opportunities to learn about AI. When asked to rank top concerns, 32% said jobs becoming obsolete was in their top three.

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The report echoes other recent surveys showing unease around advancing technology. Yet the WSU results also suggest openness to AI’s potential. Just 4% of respondents said their employers fear the technology, while a quarter described enthusiastic attitudes. 30% portrayed their organisations as measured and cautious about capabilities. What’s more, 74% believe incoming college graduates should already have AI experience.

Rather than banning new technologies like ChatGPT, colleges should find responsible ways to incorporate them into curricula, Compeau argues. Similarly, employers must make training available so current staff can adapt. With the right preparation, professionals may feel less anxious about being replaced by thinking machines.

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