AI cannot replace all jobs, says expert: 3 types of careers that could survive the automation era

Economic Times

11 hours ago

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the global job market, experts are urging young people to focus on careers that are less likely to be automated. According to PwC's latest report, roles in manual trades, creative fields, and AI-related sectors are expected to remain in demand. While AI is boosting productivity and offering higher salaries in tech-savvy industries, it's also reducing reliance on traditional degrees. Instead, employers are placing more value on practical skills and continuous learning.
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As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries across the globe, young people preparing for their careers are being advised to take a closer look at job roles that are likely to thrive in an AI-dominated future. With automation on the rise and traditional roles evolving rapidly, the nature of work is shifting—and understanding where human skills still outmatch machine capabilities is becoming essential.According to a global report by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the integration of AI into the workplace is accelerating across industries, especially in IT, financial services, and professional services. These sectors are not only adapting to AI but also reaping benefits from it, with professionals in AI-skilled jobs witnessing a 56% increase in average wages in 2024—up from a 25% jump the year before.PwC's Chief Economist, Barret Kupelian, explained in a BBC Radio 5 Live interview that AI is already impacting working lives across the board. He noted a significant and consistent rise in the demand for AI-related skills, particularly in industries that have welcomed the technology. However, he emphasized that AI is more likely to augment rather than entirely replace many job functions, particularly those requiring human nuance.Kupelian highlighted three types of roles young people should consider to remain valuable in the job market:Traditional manual roles—such as plumbers, electricians, and decorators—remain difficult for AI to replicate due to their reliance on physical labor and problem-solving in dynamic environments. Kupelian remarked that current AI technologies are not advanced enough to replace jobs involving intensive manual work.Occupations that rely on creativity and complex decision-making—such as designers, artists, strategists, and writers—are also less susceptible to automation. According to Kupelian, these roles require 'a high degree of judgement and creativity' and involve 'bespoke skills' that digital tools struggle to imitate.While some jobs are being displaced, others are being created. Positions in AI development, data science, machine learning, and ethical AI oversight are gaining traction. These roles not only offer higher salaries but are also essential in shaping how AI is applied across sectors. PwC's findings show that businesses integrating AI see faster revenue growth, signaling demand for professionals who understand and work with the technology.What distinguishes the jobs most vulnerable to automation is their reliance on repetition, structured input, and limited decision-making. Positions that do not require empathy, intuition, manual labour or complex human judgment are at greater risk of being replaced.However, this shift is also opening up new opportunities. As basic tasks are automated, professionals can focus more on strategy, innovation, and human-centered problem solving. The key to staying ahead in this changing job market lies in developing the ability to work alongside AI—leveraging its strengths while applying uniquely human skills that machines still can't replicate.