OpenAI just published a study on the economic and employment implications of AI tools. The results are worrying about workforce growth. Are U.S. regulators paying attention?

The study details the efficiencies that AI brings to a host of job sectors, including computer programming, customer service, education, research, etc. The narrative frames humans as essential supervisors and creative minds in our new AI economy, but with many jobs now “augmented” by AI tools. A renaissance of worker efficiency and productivity awaits.

This sounds nice, but I am skeptical. Will employers continue to pay employees for the full-time work of today, but now augmented by AI? It seems more likely that employers will reframe job categories and divide them among AI agents and humans, with each designated for what they do best. Fewer humans will be needed.

Many news stories are saying this. Companies are rethinking their entry level personnel needs and hiring fewer workers. Recent college graduates are struggling to find jobs. Predictions of 30% and more declines in computer coding jobs abound.

As a parent with children entering the job market, I am worried. The Trump administration and Congress are giving AI firms a wide berth to innovate and grow, while they also create new barriers for workers to access health and social safety nets. What’s going to happen to young people who are unable to find employment in their chosen fields? How will they retrain for this new AI economy and find a path to financial independence?

Tom Meuser
Portland