Companies are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence to remove entry-level positions, disrupting the conventional pathway for career advancement among young white-collar workers, say labor and AI experts. Historically, newcomers would handle manageable tasks such as research or data entry, learning alongside more experienced colleagues and gradually moving into higher roles. However, this expert-novice model, which has existed for over 160,000 years, is being undermined as businesses prioritize efficiency and cost-saving measures by replacing human labor with AI technologies.
According to Matt Beane, author of “The Skill Code: How to Save Human Ability in an Age of Intelligent Machines” and an associate professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara, companies can perform tasks in drastically reduced time frames—what once took five employees a week could now be completed in an hour with AI. This efficiency comes at a cost, as it renders junior positions less necessary, limiting the opportunities for new workers to gain valuable experience. The decline in entry-level job postings is significant; data from labor research firm Revelio Labs shows a 35% drop from January 2023 to June 2025, largely attributed to the influence of AI on highly exposed roles like data engineers and customer service agents.
The ramifications of these shifts extend beyond the immediate efficiency gains companies seek. Experts warn that this could create a talent shortage in managerial roles in the future. The traditional career ladder, which has allowed individuals to learn the ropes through practical experience alongside seasoned professionals, is at risk of eroding. A study published in 2025 indicated that as AI takes over tasks within specific roles, the number of people in those positions might decrease by 14%.
As businesses look ahead to 2030, a report from the World Economic Forum predicts that generative AI will significantly disrupt about 35% of core workplace skills. Employers are expected to focus on enhancing workforce skills, yet many anticipate layoffs as skills become outdated. This paradox leaves a troubling gap for new entrants to the job market, raising concerns about how future workers will climb the career ladder without foundational experiences in entry-level positions.
Despite these challenges, there remains a glimmer of hope. While some jobs may vanish, the World Economic Forum projects a net gain of roughly 2 million jobs globally due to emerging AI technologies, as they are predicted to create 11 million jobs while displacing 9 million others. Notably, many job openings requiring AI skills are found outside the tech sector, suggesting a shifting need across various industries.
Experts emphasize the importance for young professionals to seek out knowledge in practical AI fluency, a skill that is increasingly sought after by employers. As job postings asking for AI skills in non-tech roles surged ninefold from 2022 to 2024, it is clear that adaptability and familiarity with AI can greatly enhance marketability in today’s workforce. Engaging directly with AI technologies can foster a deeper understanding of their relevance and applications, equipping young workers to thrive in a drastically changing employment landscape.
Ultimately, while the advent of AI presents undeniable challenges to traditional career paths, it also opens up new opportunities for growth and innovation, compelling both young professionals and companies to adapt to the evolving demands of the job market.