The report highlights that the healthcare and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) sectors are expected to see substantial growth due to AI advancements.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to significantly reshape the job market over the next decade. According to a comprehensive report by McKinsey, AI advancements will lead to approximately 12 million occupational transitions by 2030.

This shift mirrors the scale of job changes experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, as shared by Kweilin Ellingrud, a senior partner at McKinsey and director of its Global Institute, during a recent media event.

The report highlights that the healthcare and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) sectors are expected to see substantial growth due to AI advancements. These fields will benefit from AI’s ability to enhance and streamline complex tasks, leading to increased demand for skilled professionals.

However, the most significant job impacts will be concentrated in four main categories: administrative assistance, customer service and sales, food service, and production and manufacturing. These sectors are characterized by repetitive tasks, involve data collection, and require basic data analysis, making them prime candidates for automation.

McKinsey’s research suggests that AI will fundamentally alter the workplace, with around 11.8 million employees in declining demand jobs needing to transition to new occupations by 2030. This transformation will not be limited to specific sectors; approximately 30% of tasks in many existing roles will adapt to AI technology changes. As a result, nearly every employee will need to adjust their work methods to integrate new technologies.

Ellingrud emphasises the importance of proactive adaptation. Employees must stay informed about the evolving job landscape and develop skills that are less susceptible to automation. Analytical thinking, human creativity, and emotional intelligence are qualities that machines cannot replicate and should be the focus areas for skill development.

The report calls on business leaders, educators, and government officials to provide the necessary tools and support to help employees navigate these changes. Ensuring that the workforce is equipped with the right skills and knowledge will be crucial in mitigating the impact of AI-driven job transitions.