If your career falls into a category that AI will likely replace, consider upskilling! The crucial role of upskilling can help you adapt to an AI-driven future. As some careers undergo significant transformations, acquiring new skills and embracing lifelong learning will be essential for staying relevant in the job market.
Next, let’s explore jobs likely to be replaced by artificial intelligence and see what you can do to adapt to a future-proof career!
1. Data Entry Clerk
With AI’s ability to process and analyze vast amounts of data, the need for manual data entry is diminishing. The potential replacement of data entry clerks by AI is often discussed due to the increasing capabilities of automation and machine learning technologies. AI systems can be programmed to accurately extract and analyze data from various sources, reducing the need for manual data entry. This has the potential to streamline workflows, minimize human error, and improve overall efficiency in data-related tasks.
According to an analytics magazine in India, “In one case, a computer programmer with the username Etherable got hired by a company and found the work was very boring and based on data entry. This employee has a work-from-home job and was able to automate the whole workload after about a year. The person inserts a few mistakes into the output to make it seem more realistic and not algorithm-driven. Even though the individual earns a full-time wage, they can reportedly handle their duties by spending only an hour or two on the job weekly.”
Projected job growth for data entry clerks is -4% from 2018-2028. However, workers in this role may transition to data science analysis or become data management specialists, focusing on interpreting and deriving insights from complex data sets. While time-consuming and repetitive tasks may phase out, data scientists are in high demand. Learning to analyze data is only a matter of skill investment that will likely pay off.
Consider upskilling with these courses to transition into a future-proof career:
- Intro to Data Science for Leadership – ONLINE
- Excel Intermediate for Data Analysts
- Excel Expert for Data Analysts
2. Telemarketer
Telemarketers are increasingly at risk of being replaced by AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants that can handle customer interactions and address queries more efficiently. According to CBS News, “Telemarketers topped the list of the 20 most exposed occupations to language modeling AI tools.”
Telemarketers can explore opportunities in customer relationship management, sales strategy development, or personalized customer service roles. Human involvement will remain crucial in many roles going into the foreseeable future.
Consider these courses to move into a more stable, future-proof career path:
- Create and Manage Remote Teams
- Delivering Great Web Presentations
- Digital Marketing Data & Analytics
- Creating Great Teamwork
- Leading Effective Virtual Meetings
3. Factory Worker
Automation and robotics have already made significant strides in manufacturing, reducing the reliance on manual labor. Factory workers can shift towards roles in robotics maintenance and programming, quality control, or logistics management. For changing your career in the near future, consider courses that build on your knowledge of factory work.
Explore these courses for a future-proof career:
- Introduction to Mechatronics
- Mechatronics for Equipment Maintenance – Level II
- Mechatronics for Equipment Maintenance Level II – Virtual Lab
Grow your career as a mechatronics engineer with ample job opportunities and projected industry growth. Mechatronics engineers are often in high demand, leading to higher salaries and job security. Explore diverse career paths in mechatronics, such as robotics, aerospace, automotive, and more.
4. Cashier
Self-checkout systems and mobile payment solutions are becoming increasingly prevalent, reducing the need for traditional cashiers. According to Design News, “AiFi, an AI technology company based out of Santa Clara, Calif., has launched a system… that can fully automate stores of any size from pop-ups and kiosks all the way to big-name retail stores.”
Human counterparts will always be needed. Increase your soft skills to offer the human touch in a similar role. Cashiers can transition to customer service and sales associate roles or explore opportunities in inventory management and supply chain operations.
Consider these courses for a future-proof career:
- Business & Professional Communication
- Work Successfully from Home
- Applied Business Foundations
- DISC Communication ToolKit
5. Driver
Autonomous vehicles are poised to disrupt the transportation industry, potentially replacing human drivers. According to Fox Business, quoting AI expert Kai Fu Lee, “AI will increasingly replace repetitive jobs… Chauffeurs, truck drivers, anyone who does driving for a living — their jobs will be disrupted more in the 15 to 25-year time frame.”
Former drivers can explore careers in fleet management and logistics coordination or focus on developing and maintaining autonomous vehicle technologies. Consider these courses to prepare for a future-proof career:
- Unmanned Vehicle Systems – Ground Flight School (FAA Part 107 Prep Course)
- Introduction to Digital Media Editing for Unmanned Aerial Systems (Drones)
- Commercial Drone Pilot – Part 107 Made Easy
6. Travel Agent
Online travel platforms and AI algorithms now provide personalized trip planning and booking services. According to Forbes, “Flight booking sites like Google Flights use predictive tools to estimate if flight prices are more likely to increase or decrease and recommend the best time to buy.”
Travel agents can pivot to roles in destination marketing and tourism consulting or specialize in niche travel experiences. Real estate may also be a good transition. Writing content about travel destinations could help you transition into a new, future-proof career.
Consider these courses:
- Applied Marketing Foundations
- Real Estate Principles and Practice
- Marketing Management
- Content Marketing & SEO
- Social Media Marketing
- Certified Technical Writer
7. Bank Teller
With the rise of online banking and mobile payment solutions, AI-powered tools are automating traditional bank teller roles.
Look for positions requiring the human interaction skills you’ve likely already mastered. Find jobs in financial advising and relationship management. Consider coaching or helping others with financial endeavors.
Consider these courses for a future-proof career:
- Applied Business Foundations
- Financial Coach Training
Or explore opportunities in digital banking solutions and cybersecurity:
- CompTIA Security+ Certification Training
- EC Council-Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- EC Council-Hacking Forensics Investigator
- EC-Council Certified Incident Handler (ECIH)
- EC Council-Cert Chief Information Security Officer
While considering a new career, realize that some skills will never fade. A human being with social or emotional intelligence can handle complex situations in ways AI may never come close to. There will always be interpersonal conflict and a need for those who can help others work together. Roles such as business or marketing managers, public relations managers, or any job requiring a deep understanding of the human brain will remain future-proof.
8. Receptionists
Receptionists are increasingly at risk of being replaced by automated phone and scheduling systems, especially in modern technology companies and multinational corporations. According to the Future of Employment Study, the likelihood of this happening is 96%, while “Will Robots Take My Job?” lists it at 93%. Although technology can handle many traditional receptionist tasks, receptionists build relationships and provide customized support that an algorithm cannot match.
To transition to a future-proof career, receptionists can develop skills in customer relationship management, office administration, or executive support. Consider these courses to remain relevant in a future-proof career:
- Customer Service Excellence
- Office Management and Administration
- Advanced Executive Assistant Training
- Digital Office Productivity Tools
9. Couriers
Couriers and delivery personnel are being replaced by drones and robots, with a high likelihood of 94% according to the Future of Employment Study and 95% by “Will Robots Take My Job?”. Automation in this space is rapidly advancing, making it crucial for couriers to upskill.
Couriers can transition to roles in logistics management, supply chain coordination, or drone operation and maintenance. Explore these courses to secure a future-proof career:
- Supply Chain Management Fundamentals
- Logistics and Transportation Management
- Drone Pilot Training and Certification
- Warehouse Operations and Management
10. Proofreaders
Proofreading is increasingly automated, with software like Grammarly and Hemingway App replacing traditional proofreading roles. The Future of Employment Study gives this a likelihood of 84%, while “Will Robots Take My Job?” places it at 100%. Despite the prevalence of automated tools, proofreaders offer a personalized touch and understanding of context that machines cannot replicate.
To adapt, proofreaders can enhance their skills in content editing, digital marketing, or technical writing. Consider these courses to future-proof your career:
- Advanced Editing and Proofreading Techniques
- Digital Content Marketing Strategies
- Technical Writing Certification
- Creative Writing and Editing Masterclass
11. Computer Support Specialists
The field of computer support is evolving, with a projected 6.2% growth by 2031. However, with abundant online resources and automation tools, reliance on human support specialists may decrease. The likelihood of replacement is 65% according to the Future of Employment Study and 52% by “Will Robots Take My Job?”.
Computer support specialists can future-proof their careers by specializing in advanced IT support, cybersecurity, or systems administration. Explore these courses to stay relevant:
- CompTIA A+ Certification
- Network Administration and Support
- Cybersecurity Fundamentals
- Advanced IT Troubleshooting Techniques
12. Market Research Analysts
Market research analysts are crucial for developing effective messaging, content, and products. However, AI and automated surveys are increasingly efficient in compiling data. The Future of Employment Study gives this role a 61% likelihood of replacement, while “Will Robots Take My Job?” lists it at 40%. While automation tools excel in speed and accuracy, human researchers bring personal experience and insight that algorithms lack.
To remain future-proof, market research analysts can leverage automation tools while enhancing their skills in data analytics, strategic marketing, or business intelligence. Consider these courses for a future-proof career:
- Data Analytics and Visualization
- Strategic Marketing Analysis
- Business Intelligence and Data Mining
- Market Research and Consumer Behavior
