Living with AI: How artificial intelligence could impact the job market

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Artificial intelligence is advancing at a breathtaking pace, promising progress, productivity, and possibility.

But as machines get smarter, a common fear is that A.I. will take away jobs.

Some workers say they're feeling the pressure, while also trying to adapt to new technologies.

Artificial intelligence is forcing a workplace reckoning.

Last month, Amazon announced it was eliminating 16,000 corporate jobs because of A.I.

Experts say 40-60 percent of America's workforce will be impacted by the new technology.

"Interestingly, they're things like writers and coders and mathematicians, and people who do research and write survey articles. So those are the most exposed," said Chris Callison-Burch, professor of computer and information science at the University of Pennsylvania.

Specifically, white-collar entry-level positions.

In 2023, Professor Callison-Burch testified on the Hill about the adverse impacts.

We asked him if people should be concerned.

"The answer is both yes and no. So I think the technology has the potential to transform the way that we work," he said. "I think that there is a real possibility that it could lead to widespread layoffs in many, many different industries," he said.

"But I think we should also think about embracing it," he added.

Philadelphia photographer Jake Mejias says tasks that once took him an hour now take minutes with A.I.

He uses A.I. almost every day, but also recognizes the pitfalls. We asked him if there is a fear that it could ultimately replace him as an artist.

"Absolutely, yeah. I mean, we're just counting down the days at this point," he said.

"It is scary," said Callison-Burch. "It's also a great time to go out and be an entrepreneur and to build your own company," Callison-Burch continued. "And you could create something like we never would have been able to in the past."

Experts say industries less likely to be impacted include construction, trades and the hospitality industry.

Having a human presence at a front desk will always be needed.