How AI is Affecting Gen Z's Entry into the Workplace

For years, the expression 'the robot took my job' has brought to mind visions of machines replacing workers on factory floors. But Gen Z is facing a new challenge: the loss of internships and other entry-level positions to AI.

- MELISE PANETTA

Internships and junior roles have historically provided a predictable ladder into the workforce by providing new workers with the experience and skills needed for long-term career development.

But as artificial intelligence (AI) spreads to every corner of the modern workplace, these roles are susceptible to being replaced by automation.

Entry-level roles traditionally involve low-complexity, high-frequency tasks such as data entry, scheduling, or drafting reports—tasks that generative AI can do significantly cheaper and faster than a human. This almost certainly means fewer traditional bottom rungs on the career ladder.

We are already seeing the impact of this: entry-level jobs are becoming scarcer, with candidates competing against a 14 percent hike in applications per role, according to a reputable social networking site for professionals.

The integration of AI across industries is fundamentally reshaping the job market.

Nearly half of professionals worry AI will replace their jobs. There is a good reason for this: by 2030, it's estimated that nearly 30 percent of work could be automated by generative AI.

Meanwhile, nearly two-thirds of executives say they are willing to use AI tools to drive up productivity at the expense of losing staff. Conversely, only one in three executives is willing to keep their staff at the expense of higher expected productivity.