If you’ve been Googling “careers AI will replace”, then you’ve probably seen the headlines: “AI is coming for your job (unless you’re a plumber, of course)!”
It’s enough to make you want to trade in your laptop for a welding torch.
There’s also the complete opposite: “AI will make everyone’s lives better.” Usually touted by the silicon bros.
So, which one is it? Is AI a job-stealing overlord or your new best work buddy?
Well, before you panic-enroll in plumbing school or computer science, let’s take a deep breath and separate fact from fear-mongering.
14 Careers AI will replace in the near future
Data-Driven Roles
Types of careers AI can't replace (right now)
Thankfully, jobs that demand a uniquely human touch are likely to be far more resilient to AI disruption (sorry, engineers!).
Roles that require empathy, creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability are areas where humans still hold a significant advantage.
Consider professions in healthcare, education, and the arts (more on this, later).
These fields often involve complex problem-solving, emotional intelligence, and interpersonal skills that are challenging to replicate with current technology.
While AI can certainly assist in these areas, it’s unlikely to replace the human element entirely. Until, of course, AI develops superintelligence and kills us all. (Just joking, kinda).
Another type of job that is likely safe for the foreseeable future are people who are in manual labour, and I don’t only mean the people in the trades.
Chefs, trainers, and hairdressers are also safe from automation for the next while because robotics that can perform these tasks are currently way too expensive for it to be profitable.
19 Careers that AI can't replace yet
Here are 19 careers AI can’t replace completely anytime soon:
Healthcare
1. Nurses
2. Doctors*
3. Therapists
4. Dentists
Education
5. Teachers
6. Professors
7. Counselors
Creative Arts
8. Musicians*
9. Visual Artists*
10. Writers*
11. Actors
Personal Services
12. Hairdressers
13. Personal trainers
14. Chefs*
Trades
15. Plumbers
16. Electricians
17. Carpenters
18. Welders
19. Mechanics
*These jobs will likely experience severe disruptions through the AI replacement/ enhancement of major tasks.
AI and the arts
The relationship between AI and the arts is a complex one. And it can often be a touchy subject for artists.
But while AI has made significant strides in generating art, music, and literature, thankfully, it remains a tool rather than a replacement for human ingenuity.
Humans are drawn to art because it offers a unique window into the human experience. Whether it’s Shakespeare or a Jackson Pollock, whether it’s joy, jealousy, or the deepest sorrow, art’s power to communicate beyond words (even when it’s with words) and what it means to be alive is what sets it apart from AI replicative art.
For example, AI can analyse vast datasets of musical compositions to identify patterns and generate new melodies, but it struggles to capture the emotional depth and cultural context that make music truly resonate.
Similarly, in the visual arts, AI can create impressive images based on word prompts (see picture above), but it often lacks the conceptual depth and storytelling ability that characterises human-created artwork.
So, while AI can be a powerful tool for artists, it cannot replicate the full range of human creativity and expression.
What you can do about AI
AI isn’t a (always) job killer. In fact, it could be a skill multiplier and time liberator if you know how to use it.
Because the real threat isn’t AI replacing your job. It’s people who use AI replacing people who don’t use AI within the same roles.
So, those who embrace AI and develop the skills to harness its potential, in whatever field they’re in, will thrive.
Just like our parents adapted to the internet.
This technological revolution isn’t about losing jobs but transforming them.
Transforming them into less repetitive (i.e. less boring) jobs with a lot more room for creativity and higher thinking.
It’s an opportunity to not only secure our professional futures but also enrich our personal lives with the time saved for fun-er tasks.
So, sure. You can try to fight it, or you can embrace it. Heck, you can even completely change your career. There are great perks to being a tradesperson. No judgement here.
But know that AI is here to stay. And just like the steam engine, electricity, and computers, it’ll likely make our lives a whole lot better.
You’re welcome!