Artificial Intelligence Poses No Imminent Threat to These Occupations According to Microsoft's Forecast
In a recent study published by Microsoft researchers, it was found that certain jobs are less likely to be affected by AI automation. The study, compiled by analyzing queries entered into Microsoft's search engine chatbot, Bing Copilot, aimed to measure AI applicability across various occupations based on real-world AI usage data.
The occupations with the lowest AI applicability scores are those involving healthcare support and physical labor, such as farming and construction jobs. These roles show less overlap with tasks that AI currently performs or assists with, likely because their work activities are less amenable to automation or augmentation by generative AI.
The jobs with the least AI applicability are more blue-collar in nature. Jobs such as "dishwasher," "cement mason," "gas pumping station operator," "floor sander," "motorboat operator," "hazardous waste removal worker," and "embalmer" rank relatively low on the same scale.
Contrary to popular belief, the study suggests that there isn't a positive correlation between activities that AI can do and jobs that will be automated. Careers that don't involve these activities may be more susceptible to AI automation.
The highest AI applicability scores were found for knowledge work occupation groups such as computer and mathematical, office and administrative support, and sales. These roles involve information gathering, writing, teaching, and advising. In jobs where AI ranks high in applicability, the technology often acts as a coach, advisor, or teacher that gathers information and explains it to the user.
However, the impact of AI on jobs is complex and difficult to predict, going beyond just the activities AI can perform. Downstream business impacts of new technology are hard to predict and often counterintuitive. Embarrassing efforts to fire people and hire AI may be reversed before AI becomes widespread.
While the study indicates that jobs like embalming are relatively unperturbed by AI, it's essential to note that the future of work is continually evolving. If one aspires to a career involving activities like cleaning plates, felling trees, disposing of plutonium, or consorting with dead bodies, there may be less impact from AI in the short term.
In conclusion, the study provides valuable insights into the areas least suited to AI assistance, offering a glimpse into the future of work and the roles that may remain human-led in the face of technological advancements.
- Despite the study suggesting that certain jobs are less likely to be affected by AI automation, the future of work is continually evolving, and jobs like embalming may remain less impacted by AI in the short term.
- The occupations with the lowest AI applicability scores are those involving healthcare support and physical labor, such as farming and construction jobs, which show less overlap with tasks that artificial intelligence currently performs or assists with.
- In contrast, the highest AI applicability scores were found for knowledge work occupation groups like computer and mathematical, office and administrative support, and sales, where AI often acts as a coach, advisor, or teacher that gathers information and explains it to the user.
- The jobs with the least AI applicability are more blue-collar in nature, and careers such as "dishwasher," "cement mason," and "embalmer" rank relatively low on the AI applicability scale.
- While Gizmodo and other media outlets might speculate about the impact of AI on financial markets, business, and careers, it's crucial to remember that the effects of new technology are often complex and difficult to predict, going beyond just the activities AI can perform.
