Millions of Gen Z graduates are facing a bleak job market due to the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Despite billionaire OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s optimistic view that it’s an exciting time to start a career, many young professionals are struggling to find work.
Altman believes that AI has created more opportunities for individuals than ever before. He thinks that a 25-year-old in Mumbai can do more than any previous generation could, thanks to the powerful tools available today. However, this isn’t the reality for Gen Zers. Entry-level positions are decreasing as employers expect rookies to come in fully skilled.
AI agents are taking over junior staffers’ beginner skills, making it harder for new graduates to kick-start their journey up the corporate ladder. Many young people are even seeking jobs at fast-food chains like Chipotle instead of tech companies.
The dire situation is so severe that 4.3 million young people are now classified as “not in education, employment, or training” (NEETs). Altman admits to being envious of Gen Z’s career options, comparing their opportunities to exploring the solar system and landing high-paying jobs.
However, not all tech leaders share Altman’s optimism. Billionaires Bill Gates and Lisa Su believe that AI can improve productivity and create more jobs in the future. On the other hand, CEOs Dario Amodei and Aneesh Raman warn of massive job losses due to AI, with unemployment rates potentially soaring as high as 20%.
As Gen Z navigates this challenging job market, it’s clear that their success will depend on integrating AI tools into their next role. With the future of work uncertain, one thing is clear: the impact of AI on entry-level jobs will be felt for years to come.
Source: https://fortune.com/2025/08/15/ai-wipes-out-entry-level-roles-openai-billionaire-ceo-sam-altman-says-most-exciting-time-to-be-starting-out-ones-career