Copiers in the Rearview: Generative AI and the Evolution of the American Workforce
“From Copiers to Coding: Navigating America’s AI-Augmented Job Landscape
While perusing the internet in search of good news about the new way of work, I stumbled upon a 76-page report by the McKinsey Institute called, Generative AI and the Future of Work in America. Granted, this isn’t The Catcher in the Rye or War and Peace, but I dove right in and found impactful tidbits that add perspective to the ever-changing office technology landscape.
“With generative AI added to the picture, 30 percent of hours worked today
McKinsey Global Institute
could be automated by 2030.”
For instance, between 2019 and 2022, we’ve seen 8.6 million job shifts from 2019 to 2022, and they project another 12 million by 2030. Just for perspective, that’s 25% more than their predictions barely two years ago.
The report goes on to say that by 2030, up to 30% of work hours across the US economy could be automated, primarily due to advancements in AI. The effect will be most felt in office support, customer service, and food service jobs.
And that is the rub for office technology providers – knowledgeable office support workers will be shifting to other functions that do not include walking up to a printer or copier.
It’s not all doom and gloom, though. Certain sectors like business, law, management, healthcare, transportation, and STEM are showing resilience amidst these changes, with prospects of continued growth.
Once again, diversity in products and services offered is the key to surviving and thriving in the new way in the world of work.
Read the entire report, here.
– Greg Walters, Head Writer
