AI is coming for entry-level jobs. Bill Gates says Gen Z may not be safe no matter how well they learn to use it

Gates said smart systems have generally unearthed opportunities that are “fun and empowering,” he told CNN. However, that may not mean ambitious college graduates will land their dream jobs just by using AI; it’s still a tough job market despite understanding these applications. 

“Embracing [AI], and tracking it, will be very, very important,” Gates said. “That doesn’t guarantee we’re not going to have a lot of dislocation.” 

Gates said he hasn’t changed his recommendations for young people: “Be curious, read, and use the latest tools,” he said.

AI has shaken up entry-level careers 

Gen Z is increasingly burned out from job hunting before even getting started. Frustrated applicants have lamented on TikTok about the number of rejection emails they have received from companies and expressed fears that the job market feels broken. And recent data backs them up: Entry-level job postings in the U.S. overall dwindled by about 35% since January 2023, and roles that are easily automated by AI are experiencing a disproportionately large impact.

A recent survey found 49% of U.S. Gen Z job hunters believe AI has reduced the value of their degrees. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for recent college grads has climbed above 6% over the past 12 months ending in May, while the overall national unemployment rate hovers around 4%. 

AI replacing entry-level work is already being felt across all industries. At global investment firm Carlyle, previous entry-level hires who evaluated deals used to turn to Google for articles and request documents manually. Now the work is being done by AI, and the firm is shifting toward hiring junior-level employees who can ensure the work is accurate.  

CEOs have also iterated their hiring strategy. Bill Balderaz, CEO of Columbus-based consulting firm Futurety, told the Wall Street Journal he decided not to hire a summer intern this year, opting to run social media copy through ChatGPT instead. 

How Gen Z is positioning itself

For Gen Z entering the workforce, the career game is shifting. Much like investors turn to Treasury bonds during times of economic uncertainty, many younger workers are reveling in the security of blue-collar work and roles rooted in human connection, creativity, and physical skills. 

A recent survey of 1,000 Gen Z workers showed 53% are gravitating toward skilled or licensed trades in construction, plumbing, and electrical. Jobs installing elevators earn up to six figures and don’t require a college degree, for instance. Next in line are people-focused professions, such as health care, education, and social work. 

Did your workplace make our list of the 100 Best Companies to Work For? Explore this year's list.