Mid-Level IT Jobs at Risk as Automation Advances

that lifelong learning and adaptability are crucial, as Al-driven roles in data science, cybersecurity and cloud management gain prominence. Edited excerpts

- Former TCS chief executive Subramanian Ramadorai tells Nabodita Ganguly and Tarunya Sanjay

How are IT firms leveraging AI to automate workflows? What impact is this having on business?

The use of AI and data, including repurposing data through large language models, is becoming mainstream. Many back-office functions, such as finance, accounting and customer service, are now managed by AI agents instead of human agents. Routine tasks integrated into workflows are increasingly automated, making AI agents or bots a core part of operations.

As a result, back-office processing across finance, accounting and HR is now driven by AI interventions. Intelligence is embedded into workflows through data, which helps gather insights at every stage. This enables a better understanding of customer preferences and timely prompts for assistance.

Do you see AI as a threat or will it open new avenues for employment?

The question is not whether jobs will be created but rather how jobs will be replaced or displaced. Lifelong learning is essential, and opportunities exist for those willing to continuously learn. However, for those unwilling to adapt, their roles may become obsolete. One common argument regarding AI and jobs is that those who lose their jobs may not be the same individuals who secure new ones.

Will AI deepen inequality? How can we bridge this gap?