Impact of AI on Jobs and Career Paths for Teens

bossmagazineinfo
May 28
2 min read

How Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping the Future for Gen Z

When you think of AI (Artificial Intelligence), what comes to mind? Maybe ChatGPT helping you write a paper at 11:59 PM. Or maybe it’s the viral TikToks about robots replacing jobs. But behind the hype is a very real question for Gen Z:

How will AI change the way we work — and where will teens fit in?

This isn’t just a Silicon Valley thing anymore. It’s changing the jobs teens get today and the careers we’ll build tomorrow. Let’s break it down.

1. AI Is Automating Entry-Level Jobs

Many teen-friendly jobs — from retail to food service — are already being reshaped by automation:

Self-checkout kiosks reduce the need for cashiers.
Chatbots handle basic customer service.
AI scheduling tools replace human managers.

This doesn’t mean these jobs disappear overnight, but it does mean competition will increase, wages may stagnate, and teens need to offer more than just availability.

Stat Check: McKinsey estimates that up to 25% of current work tasks across the U.S. could be automated by 2030 — and low-skill jobs are hit first.

2. New Careers Are Emerging —

While AI replaces some roles, it also creates entirely new industries and jobs that didn’t exist 5 years ago:

Prompt engineers
AI ethicists and policy experts
Data labeling and training jobs
AI-powered marketing, design, and social media roles

Tip: Use your creativity to explore early opportunities. For example:

Offer AI-powered resume writing for peers.
Use AI tools to build a side hustle, website, or social media brand.
Learn Python, machine learning, or no-code platforms — all free online.

3. Soft Skills Just Got Way More Valuable

Ironically, the rise of AI means that the most human skills will become the most valuable:

Communication
Leadership
Public speaking
Emotional intelligence
Ethical decision-making

AI can answer questions, but it can’t inspire a team. It can write a paragraph, but it can’t lead a movement.

Whether you're a debater, club leader, activist, or creative thinker — you're building future-proof capital.

4. Career Planning Just Got a Whole New Playbook

The idea of going to college → getting a safe job → climbing a ladder? AI is shaking that up.

What this means for teens:

Micro-credentials > majors: Employers care more about what you can do than your degree title.
Portfolio > GPA: Show your skills with real projects (websites, podcasts, blogs like this one).
Learning never stops: Lifelong learners will always be one step ahead of machines.

It’s not about choosing one “forever job.” It’s about staying flexible, creative, and ready to evolve.

5. So... What Should Teens Do Right Now?

Here’s your Gen Z action plan to stay ahead of the AI curve:

Explore AI tools early — Get familiar with ChatGPT, Canva AI, RunwayML, etc.
Start a passion project — Use tech to solve a real problem at your school or community.
Build real skills — Learn coding, design, marketing, or anything that lets you create, not just consume.
Speak up + lead — Public speaking, collaboration, and storytelling are skills AI can’t replicate.
Think like a founder — Even if you never start a company, entrepreneurial thinking gives you power.