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A new report forecasts that AI might generate 78 million jobs by 2030

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Update on : March 23, 2025

AI might generate 78 million jobs by 2030

The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the job market has been a hot topic ever since the technology became accessible to the general public, particularly through tools like ChatGPT. Recently, the World Economic Forum (WEF) released its 2025 report on the future of employment, offering a more balanced view than the usual alarmist headlines that have dominated the conversation.

A More Optimistic Outlook for AI and Employment

While some might fear that AI will lead to mass unemployment, the WEF offers a different perspective. According to the forum, AI is expected to create 170 million jobs by 2030, even though 92 million jobs may be eliminated. This results in a net increase of 78 million positions, defying the common narrative that automation will destroy jobs on a massive scale.

The WEF’s study, which is based on data from 1,000 companies employing 14 million people globally, highlights that many organizations are not just automating tasks but are also transforming their operations to take advantage of new AI-driven opportunities. In fact, half of the companies surveyed plan to shift their focus to adapt to AI, and two-thirds are looking to hire professionals with expertise in this emerging field.

AI’s Role in Shaping Job Profiles by 2030

The WEF’s findings shed light on the types of roles that will be in demand in the coming years. The most sought-after skill sets will center around AI and big data, networking and cybersecurity, and technological culture. The report underscores that AI will be the primary driver of job creation over the next decade, with 86% of companies predicting that their operations will be transformed by AI technologies.

At the same time, some professions are expected to decline significantly. These include roles in traditional sectors like postal services, executive assistants, and payroll specialists. Interestingly, graphic designers and legal secretaries are now also being added to this list, due to the growing capabilities of generative AI in creative and administrative domains.

Despite these shifts, the WEF does not frame AI as a replacement for human workers, but rather as a tool for enhanced human-machine collaboration. Between 2025 and 2030, 77% of companies surveyed plan to launch training programs to help their employees adapt to the use of AI technologies. Moreover, 70% intend to hire specialists to develop AI tools, and 62% will seek employees who are already proficient in AI.

The Debate Over Universal Basic Income

As AI continues to evolve, some figures in the tech industry, like Sam Altman of OpenAI (the organization behind ChatGPT), have voiced concerns about the potential economic disruptions AI could cause. Altman has suggested that the development of a general artificial intelligence (AGI) could even lead to the displacement of workers performing tasks that are currently deemed “routine.”

To address these challenges, Altman advocates for the introduction of a universal basic income (UBI), which would guarantee a minimum income to all citizens. OpenAI has even financed one of the largest experiments aimed at exploring UBI as a potential solution to the societal changes driven by AI advancements.

As we move closer to 2030, the future of work will undoubtedly be reshaped by AI. While some traditional jobs may fade away, many new and exciting opportunities will emerge. By focusing on the evolution of skills and training programs, AI can be harnessed to create a more dynamic and inclusive workforce.