AI to create 78M new jobs globally by 2030 amid workforce transformation

AI’s impact on the global workforce through 2030 is creating significant job market shifts, with the World Economic Forum projecting a net increase of 78 million jobs globally.

Key workforce projections: The global economy is poised for a substantial transformation in employment patterns, with 170 million new jobs emerging while 92 million existing roles face displacement.

• AI and information processing technology will generate 11 million new positions while displacing 9 million existing roles
• Robotics and autonomous systems represent the largest displacement factor, with a projected net decline of 5 million jobs
• Work tasks are expected to be distributed equally between humans, technology, and human-technology collaboration by 2030

Major growth drivers: Five key factors are reshaping the employment landscape and driving new job creation through 2030.

• Technological advancement and digital transformation are accelerating workplace changes
• The green energy transition is creating new employment opportunities
• Demographic shifts are influencing workforce needs
• Geoeconomic fragmentation is reshaping global labor markets
• Economic uncertainty is forcing adaptability in workforce planning

Skills evolution: Organizations are preparing for significant changes in required workforce competencies over the next several years.

• Employers anticipate 39% of key job skills will need updating by 2030
• AI and big data analytics capabilities are becoming increasingly crucial
• Network security and cybersecurity skills are in growing demand
• Technological literacy is emerging as a fundamental requirement
• Creative thinking and adaptability are gaining importance as essential soft skills

Employment sector changes: Traditional industries are experiencing significant transformation while new opportunities emerge.

• Agricultural work shows the strongest growth, with 34 million additional farming positions expected by 2030
• Over two-thirds of employers are actively planning to hire for AI-specific roles
• 40% of organizations anticipate making workforce adjustments due to AI integration

Future implications: While the overall job market shows net growth, the transition period will require significant workforce adaptation and reskilling initiatives to ensure workers can effectively participate in the evolving economy. The success of this transformation will largely depend on how well organizations and educational institutions can prepare workers for emerging roles while supporting those in displaced positions.