36 million US jobs at risk from AI by 2035

The U.S. labor market is poised for significant transformations over the next decade, as companies increasingly rely on artificial intelligence and automation. Projections indicate that jobs equivalent to 36 million positions could be affected by 2035, forcing millions of workers to change their career paths.

A report released by the McKinsey Global Institute revealed that AI could contribute to the creation of more than 40 million new jobs. In contrast, approximately 11 million workers, representing 7% of the U.S. workforce, will be compelled to transition to different professions, while 25 million will continue in their current roles, albeit with altered job responsibilities.

Office and administrative support occupations top the list of most affected sectors, as technology could impact 81% of current working hours, with demand for labor expected to decline by 38%.

These transformations extend to the manufacturing, technology, retail, financial services, transportation, media, and agriculture sectors.

The report clarified that automation does not necessarily mean the disappearance of jobs, but rather their reshaping. It noted that the number of workers who may be forced to change professions ranges between 6 million and 16 million, depending on the speed at which companies adopt technology.

It warned of the difficulties associated with career transitions: only one in seven workers can move directly into a similar or higher-paying job, while 45% face challenges related to training, qualifications, and wages.

The transition requires approximately 770,000 workers annually to shift between occupational groups, a rate 3.6 times higher than the historical average. This underscores the need to expand qualification programs and develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability.