The AI job apocalypse is turning out to be a bust. The Wall Street Journal reports that major companies are hiring again, defying predictions that artificial intelligence would wipe out large numbers of jobs — and specifically entry level jobs. But the really interesting twist in this story is that AI is actually creating jobs. Entry level workers aren’t victims; they are valuable assets.
Instead of preparing for disaster, let’s focus on a more productive — and realistic endeavor — preparing students and young adults for the opportunities that AI is creating for them in work and in life.
As the founder of both an online school and education technology company, a former school board member, and a mother of three, I believe that the biggest threat facing today's students is not that AI will take all the jobs. It is that our education system will fail to prepare them for the jobs that are being created.
The labor market is sending a clear signal. Jobs requiring AI skills are growing nearly eight times faster than the overall job market, and employers are paying a substantial wage premium for workers who know how to use these tools effectively. Businesses are not looking to replace people. They are looking for people who can work alongside technology to solve problems, make decisions, and create value. That means the first rung on the career ladder has changed.
Employers increasingly want entry-level hires who can exercise judgment, communicate effectively, analyze information, and leverage AI tools productively from day one. This is not bad news for students; it is a tremendous opportunity — if we respond appropriately. Unfortunately, our schools are lagging behind — and even resisting — reality.
Schools should be teaching students how to evaluate AI-generated information, identify inaccuracies, protect privacy, think critically, and use these tools to enhance learning rather than replace it. AI literacy should become as fundamental as digital literacy became a generation ago.
And, if their child’s school chooses resistance or complacency, parents should be able to take their kids elsewhere. I’ve spent years advocating for school choice and educational innovation because I believe students should never be stuck in sub-par schools just because of their zip codes. Families should have the power to choose schools and programs that are preparing students for an AI-enabled economy.
Higher education must adapt as well, and a few schools are showing real leadership. Miami Dade College went to Intel and Microsoft, asked what skills they needed, and built the degree around the answer. Ohio State University decided every graduate will be “bilingual” — beginning with the class of 2029, every Ohio State student will graduate fluent in their field of study and in the application of AI to that field. All undergraduates build generative AI skills through a required General Education Launch Seminar. This is the kind of entrepreneurial spirit we need in education.
Four-year degree institutions aren’t the only educational paths for young adults looking to gain the skills to launch into careers. Meta just launched America's Workforce Academy — a tuition-free, paid training program that delivers NCCER credentials, a portable America's Workforce Certificate, and a guaranteed job for every graduate. The private-sector commitment is piloting in Louisiana, Ohio, Indiana, and Texas.
AI is deeply physical. It requires data centers, electrical infrastructure, construction, cooling systems, networking equipment, and highly skilled technicians to build and maintain it all. This is why career and technical education, apprenticeships, and workforce pathways deserve renewed attention. Florida has demonstrated what is possible by expanding career education opportunities and apprenticeship programs that connect students directly to high-demand industries. Other states are advancing AI education initiatives and integrating technology skills into graduation requirements.
The AI economy is creating enormous demand for electricians, welders, HVAC technicians, construction professionals, network specialists, and data center operators. Hundreds of thousands of these positions are projected to go unfilled because employers cannot find enough qualified workers. These are not low-paying jobs. Many offer salaries that rival or exceed those of traditional white-collar careers.
Make no mistake, the future holds enormous opportunities for the next generation. The reindustrialization of America belongs to the students who learn how to harness these AI tools and skills. The jobs are coming. It is our responsibility to ensure that students are ready by creating the education pathways.
Erika Donalds is Founder of the Education Freedom Foundation and Chairman of OptimaEd
Editor's Note: Do you enjoy Townhall's conservative reporting that takes on the radical left and woke media? Support our work so that we can continue to bring you the truth.
Join Townhall VIP and use promo code FIGHT to receive 60% off your membership.
Join the Conversation
VIP members get the ability to comment on articles.