Artificial Intelligence is transforming the world
of work, like ever before.
We have gone through several Industrial Revolutions (IR) in
the past, starting with the 1st IR in 1784 (Mechanization Steam Power), the 2nd
IR in 1870 (Mass Production Assembly Line, Division of Labour), the 3rd IR in
1969 (Automation, Electronics, and Computers) and the 4th IR in 2000 and
ongoing [Cyber Physical Systems (CPS), Internet of Things (IoT), Networks,
Artificial Intelligence (AI)].
However, the current IR4.0 is predicted to be most
disruptive in comparison to the past three.
Yuval Noah Harari mentions that humans have always had
two abilities; physical abilities and mental abilities. Machines took
over the roles that required physical strength in the Industrial Revolution,
but now machines are evolving to be able to take over
mental abilities as well. So we as humans have to learn to
adapt to stay relevant in the workplace.
The pace of technological change is such, that a
working professional may struggle to learn new skills and adapt to these new
jobs. No one has a clear view of what future jobs will look like, so our
current education system is unable to teach students, skills
that would matter in the future world of work and to navigate life through its
unprecedented challenges.
In this context, IR 4.0 is predicted to be the
most disruptive, which has triggered this million-dollar
question What jobs are safe in the world of AI?
I asked this question to AI itself (ChatGPT). Listed below
is the reply from ChatGPT, rearranged in alphabetical order:
As AI, machine learning (ML), and robotics continue
to evolve and integrate into various industries, certain jobs
are considered more resilient or "safe" from automation.
These jobs typically involve complex decision-making, creative thinking,
interpersonal communication, or highly specialized skills that are difficult
for machines to replicate. Here’s a look at some of the job
categories that are likely to remain secure in the face of increasing automation:
Artisan and Craft Professions: Craftsmen and artisans who
produce handcrafted goods or art, providing a personal touch or unique skills
that are difficult to replicate with machines.
Advanced Healthcare and Biotechnology: While basic
diagnostic tasks may be automated, there will be a growing demand for
healthcare professionals in personalized medicine, biotechnology, and complex
medical procedures that require a human touch.
Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering: While robots
are already prevalent in manufacturing, engineers who design these systems and
handle complex problem-solving tasks are less likely to be automated.
AI and Robotics Development and Oversight: Professions
involved in the design, programming, and maintenance of AI, ML models, and
robotics systems, such as software engineers, robotics engineers, and AI
researchers.
Creative Professions: Artists, writers, musicians, and
designers bring unique creativity and emotional depth to their work, which AI
and robots cannot authentically duplicate.
Creative and Strategic Professions: Roles that require
innovation, strategic oversight, and creative problem-solving, such as
strategic consultants, creative directors, and innovation managers.
Cybersecurity and Data Protection: As more systems
become automated and connected, the need for cybersecurity professionals to
protect systems, networks, and data from cyber threats increases.
Education and Training: While some aspects of
education can be automated, teachers and educators who provide personalized
learning experiences and foster human interaction in classrooms are less likely
to be replaced.
Education and Training for Advanced Technologies: Educators
and trainers who can teach new skills related to AI, ML, and robotics will be
in demand, especially those who can bridge the gap between complex technology
and practical application.
Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, therapists,
and other healthcare professionals require a deep understanding of human
health, empathy, and interpersonal skills, which are challenging for AI to
replicate fully.
Human Services: Jobs involving personal interaction,
empathy, care, and dealing with complex human emotions and
situations such as Social workers, Psychologists, Counselors,
Therapists, and Luxury Personal Services, where the human element is
irreplaceable.
Human-Centric Roles in Tech: User experience (UX) designers,
human factors engineers, and others who work to make technology interfaces and
interactions more human-friendly and accessible are crucial as technology
becomes more sophisticated.
Legal, Policy, and Ethical Fields: As AI and robotics
play more significant roles in society, there will be a heightened need for
professionals who specialize in ethical considerations, compliance with
regulations, and policy development related to technology use.
Project Management: Managing projects across various
industries involves coordination, leadership, and problem resolution, which are
challenging for robots to perform effectively.
Public Safety and Emergency Services: Firefighters,
police officers, and emergency medical technicians must handle unpredictable
situations that require human judgment and physical dexterity.
Science and Research: Scientists and researchers
in fields like biotechnology, environmental science, and physics
engage in complex experimental work and theoretical thinking that AI currently
cannot emulate.
Skilled Trades: Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and
mechanics often work in environments that are impractical for robots
to navigate and require flexible problem-solving skills.
Technology Integration Specialists: Experts in digital
transformation, systems integration, and technology adoption help businesses
and organizations incorporate new technologies into existing frameworks,
maximizing efficiency and effectiveness.
I am surprised, that I see jobs related to
Sustainability, Conversations, Nature, and Wildlife not featuring in ChatGPT
responses. But, given the climate change threat human beings are
facing, in my mind, these professions are also going to be in demand.
The common thread cutting across all these
professions is combining technical expertise with interpersonal
skills, strategic thinking, creativity, highly specialized knowledge, and
ethical considerations. This makes these jobs more resistant to
automation. The key to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving job market is
continuous learning and adapting to new technologies, including understanding
how AI and robotics can be used as tools rather than seen purely as
replacements.
It would be most apt to conclude this article by quoting
Yuval Noah Harari's advice to today's youth.
"One thing you need to learn is How To Change, All The Time. Previously, life was divided roughly into two parts. In the first part of life, you learn things, and in the second part of life, you make use of what you learned. You had your profession, your identity, and you made use of that.
This is no longer relevant in the 21st century. Today, you don't have the luxury of a stable profession, a stable identity, and a stable base for the rest of your life. You will never be able to stop. You have to learn things again and again, to reinvent yourself again and again, to reinvent who you are. what is your identity? even when you are 40 50 or 60 years old.
When you are 15 years old, everything you do is to invent yourself, to build your identity, to understand who you are. By the time you are 50 years old, you don't want to do it anymore. But in the 21st century, you don't have a choice, you have to adapt to constant change.
So the most important thing for a young person to learn today is, How
to Cope with Change and How to keep changing all the time. And
I don't think anybody knows, how to do it" -
Yuval Noah Harari.
References:
- Responses from ChatGPT
- Differentiation
of Industry 4.0 Models. The 4th Industrial Revolution from different
Regional Perspectives in the Global North and Global South. - Scientific
Figure on ResearchGate.
- Great
Leadership with Jacob Morgan Podcast: Yuval Harari On The Future of Jobs
& Technology, Intelligence vs Consciousness & Threats to Humanity.