The Rise of AI: Redefining the Job Market, Not Replacing It
Artificial intelligence is here. It is learning fast, and it is already changing the ways we live our lives. For a lot of people, that change causes a lot of uncertainty when it comes to their careers. There is talk that AI is eliminating jobs, but that statement avoids the true impact: Artificial intelligence is redefining the job market, not replacing it.
Certain roles in job fields are at risk of being affected, there’s no doubt about that. Those roles include manual, repetitive, and predictable tasks. While these particular jobs may be affected by artificial intelligence, that does not mean they’ll be eliminated. The rise of the internet has created new job titles in the past, like a social media manager. This is exactly what AI is supposed to do: generate new roles and opportunities. Already, there’s an increased demand for data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, and other AI-based job titles. The World Economic Forum (2020) predicts that 85 million jobs may be displaced by 2025, but 97 million new roles might emerge as we adapt to the new division of labor.
Again, this is a transformation of the job market rather than a destruction.
To make this transition as smooth as possible, the definition of work must be changed. AI is going to start taking over routine tasks which means human skills like creativity and critical thinking will become more important. Machines and humans must work together to make the transformation easy for everyone.
With AI becoming incredibly prominent, the risk of inequality spikes. Low-income communities could be left behind as they often don’t have the necessary tools to succeed in a rapidly changing job environment. These tools could include reliable internet and quality education. Employed people in this situation are at risk of being stuck in minimum-wage and low-skill jobs that are most vulnerable to AI.
This is where the government must come in to ensure equality among everyone. There need to be policies put in place that prioritize equal access to the internet, the foundation of remote work, and online learning. There should be public investment in community colleges, apprenticeships, and trades training. Although technical skills should be taught, there should also be a focus on skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and digital literacy. There is no reason for people to be frightened by artificial intelligence as it is coming into our lives to help us succeed rather than fail. Although it will eliminate some jobs, the creation of jobs outweighs the destruction. We must not resist AI but rather prepare for the incredible future it will shape.
About this Piece
This piece is featured on the cover of the September 2025 edition of When Free to Choose, Northwood University’s signature monthly publication dedicated to exploring the importance of free enterprise and other tenets of The Northwood Idea. Click here to subscribe to this complimentary publication.