A recent study by Microsoft has revealed the white-collar jobs most vulnerable to being replaced by generative artificial intelligence. The findings challenge the common assumption that higher education ensures job security in the age of AI.
Since the widespread adoption of generative AI in late 2022, concerns have been rising over its potential to replace human jobs. While tech leaders have acknowledged the likelihood of workforce reductions, many have been unsure about which specific roles are most at risk.
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy recently said that artificial intelligence would likely reduce the company’s workforce in the coming years due to efficiency improvements. Similarly, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang stated, “Everybody’s jobs will be affected. Some jobs will be lost. Many jobs will be created and what I hope is that the productivity gains that we see in all the industries will lift society.”
In this context, Microsoft researchers analysed 200,000 user interactions with its Copilot AI tool to determine how users are currently applying the technology in real-world scenarios. The study found that knowledge workers are particularly exposed, with professions such as Historians, Writers, Journalists, Political Scientists, and CNC Tool Programmers among the most at risk.
Interestingly, the research also shows that jobs requiring a college degree are more likely to be affected. “In terms of education requirements, we find higher AI applicability for occupations requiring a Bachelor’s degree than occupations with lower requirements,” the study notes.
Jobs Most at Risk
Some of the 40 roles most threatened by generative AI include Interpreters, Writers, Editors, Telemarketers, Customer Service Representatives, Reporters, Proofreaders, and Public Relations Specialists.
Jobs Least Affected
On the other end, physically intensive or highly manual roles are less susceptible. These include Dredge Operators, Water Treatment Plant Operators, Rail-Track Maintenance Workers, Logging Equipment Operators, and Orderlies.
The findings serve as a stark reminder that AI’s impact on employment is not limited to low-skilled labour and is increasingly influencing traditionally secure, knowledge-based professions.
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