New study sheds light on what kinds of workers are losing jobs to AI

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the workplace, with entry-level workers at risk of being replaced by generative AI tools like ChatGPT, according to a recent study by Stanford economists. The research indicates a 13% decline in employment for early-career employees in industries most exposed to AI since 2022, compared to their more experienced counterparts.

The study underscores the growing concern that the proliferation of AI in the workforce is likely to disrupt the job market, particularly affecting younger workers. The use of large language models trained on various sources of written material, such as books and online content, overlaps with the knowledge typically acquired by young professionals in universities, making them susceptible to replacement by AI tools.

Two fields experiencing significant job displacement among young workers due to AI are software engineering and customer service, with entry-level employment declining by approximately 20% between late 2022 and July 2025. In contrast, older workers in the same roles saw an increase in employment during the same period.

Overall, employment for workers aged 22 to 25 in AI-exposed sectors dropped by 6% during the study timeframe, while older workers saw an increase in job opportunities. This trend was observed in other fields such as accounting, auditing, secretarial work, computer programming, and sales.

The study attributes the resilience of older workers to their accumulation of tacit knowledge and soft skills over time, which are less easily replaceable by AI. These workers possess insights and expertise that are not readily available in AI models, making them less vulnerable to displacement.

Despite the job disruptions caused by AI, the technology also presents opportunities for job creation and skill enhancement. In fields like nursing, AI can augment human workers by automating routine tasks, allowing professionals to focus more on patient care. Jobs where AI tools are used to complement and expand employee capabilities have not experienced the same decline in entry-level employment.

Young workers who can leverage AI effectively to enhance their job performance are likely to thrive in the evolving labor market. Learning to use AI tools to improve productivity and add value to their work can lead to higher salaries and increased job security. As companies continue to leverage AI technologies, staying informed and adapting to the changing landscape of work will be crucial for career success.

In conclusion, while AI may pose challenges to entry-level workers, it also presents opportunities for growth and innovation. By embracing AI and acquiring the skills to leverage its capabilities, young professionals can navigate the shifting job market and secure their place in the future workforce.