The concept of technological advancement disrupting the job market is not a new occurrence. Robots and automation have become common on factory floors and assembly lines, impacting the workplace by displacing, altering, enhancing, or creating jobs, according to experts. They also predict that artificial intelligence (AI), a rapidly evolving technology, will have a similar effect. However, AI is expected to target a different segment of the American workforce compared to previous technologies. Rakesh Kochhar, a senior researcher at the nonpartisan think tank Pew Research Center, explains that AI distinguishes itself from past technologies because it extends into white-collar office spaces where higher-paid workers typically operate. The extent and speed of AI's impact remain uncertain. AI is designed to mimic human cognitive abilities, enabling computers and machines to perform tasks independently. An example of AI's impact can be seen in the viral success of ChatGPT, an AI chatbot developed by OpenAI. This technology differs from robots as it focuses on cognitive tasks rather than physical labor. According to a Pew study, approximately 19% of U. S. workers have high exposure to AI in their jobs. The term "exposure" refers to uncertain positive or negative impacts AI may have. Occupations with high AI exposure include budget analysts, data entry keyers, tax preparers, technical writers, and web developers. These jobs often require analytical skills that AI might replace or assist with. Workers most exposed to AI tend to be women, white or Asian, higher earners, and possess a college degree.

While there may be some displacement of jobs, economists like Cory Stahle from job site Indeed believe that AI could also create new occupations that are currently unknown. The impact of AI remains uncertain, and the Pew report reveals that 23% of American workers have low exposure to AI. These jobs require physical activities that AI cannot replicate easily. The remaining 58% of jobs have varying degrees of AI exposure. Pew's study, which utilizes U. S. Department of Labor data, shows that workers in highly exposed jobs earned an average hourly wage of $33 in 2022, compared to $20 in jobs with low exposure. The fear of technology destroying jobs has existed since the Industrial Revolution, but history has shown that automation often creates new jobs while reducing costs and increasing affordability. Harry Holzer, a professor at Georgetown University, explains that new technologies initially have a negative short-term impact on net jobs but become modestly positive after four years. However, workers directly replaced by technology often suffer, leading to labor market inequality. Holzer suggests that the future automation, including AI, may exacerbate displacement and inequality among millions of workers in various fields. This would create new challenges, such as the need for retraining and reskilling, and impact areas like child care for disadvantaged workers. Indeed data indicates an increasing demand for workers with AI-related skills. The number of job listings seeking AI skills has significantly grown over the years, particularly in the past year, with industries related to AI technology and creative or marketing roles experiencing the most growth. Stahle finds it interesting to observe how AI might disrupt roles in marketing, sales, customer service, legal, and real estate.