As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms the way we live and work, a pressing question looms: what’s the future of the workforce in a world where machines are increasingly capable of doing human tasks? To explore this complex issue, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine convened a committee of experts from various fields to examine the intersection of AI and work.
The committee’s report, released in 2020, highlights the significant changes AI will bring to the labor market. For instance, it’s estimated that up to 40% of jobs in the United States could be at high risk of being automated by 2030. This isn’t to say that AI will replace humans entirely; rather, it will alter the nature of work and the skills required to perform tasks. The report notes that many jobs will require workers to upskill and reskill to remain relevant in an AI-driven economy.
The committee also identifies opportunities for AI to enhance the workforce, such as improving productivity and reducing healthcare costs. For example, AI can help analyze medical images to diagnose diseases more accurately and quickly than human radiologists. Moreover, AI can aid in the development of new treatments and personalized medicine. To harness these benefits, the report recommends that policymakers, educators, and business leaders collaborate to ensure that workers have access to the training and resources needed to adapt to an AI-driven workplace.