AI is Reshaping Job Roles, but Digital Divides are Emerging

AI is reshaping job roles by eliminating repetitive tasks, but it’s also widening workplace digital divides across ages, genders and seniority, according to a study released Sept. 18 by Cypher Learning, a business and academic learning platform. A poll by the organization found that 33% want AI banned from the workplace. 

It also found that 63% of workers believe AI technologies have already impacted the skills required for their roles, while 52% think it will either totally transform or have a major impact on their role within two years. 

“Each technological leap — such as we are currently experiencing with AI — does change the workplace,” Cypher Learning founder and CEO Graham Glass said in a press release. “Trade-offs have had to be made throughout history as jobs and roles shift. But over the long term, these changes generally prove to be for the better.” 

While 38% of workers anticipate retraining due to AI making their jobs obsolete, 45% are concerned about future job security. 

Despite these concerns, 67% of workers view AI as a friend rather than a foe, though 33% want it banned in the workplace. 

The study also found that 41% of workers use GenAI for their work, with 46% reporting that AI makes their jobs easier, and 43% noted that it frees them from boring administrative tasks, allowing them to focus on high-value work. 

However, not all workers benefit equally. Younger workers, men and senior management are more likely to use and experiment with AI, compared to women, older workers above 55 and those in manual or clerical roles. Fewer women, older workers and manual or clerical employees felt technology was improving their lives. 

Workers also highlighted the need for AI guidelines in the workplace, with 69% feeling clear AI policies are still needed. 

Looking ahead

73% of workers believe AI skills will be important to their roles within five years, with 45% saying such skills will be essential or very important. However, only 25% reported receiving training. 

Glass noted that as AI increasingly permeates the workplace, fostering a culture of continuous learning through training and education will be essential to boost worker confidence, 

“Some workers may feel overwhelmed by technology when training is not delivered in a way that is relevant to them and their role,” Glass said. 

The survey includes responses from 4,543 workers aged 18 and above across the US, the UK and Mexico.