AI’s Growing Role at Work: What It Means for Real People

More than 300,000 jobs in the U.S. have been affected by artificial intelligence since 2023, according to tracking group Layoffs.fyi. As companies from Walmart to IBM automate tasks, everyday workers are feeling the pressure. The latest report in the SCOR AI Workforce Impact series puts the spotlight on how AI is not just a tech buzzword but a force changing who gets hired, who gets let go, and what skills matter most.

What Happened

The SCOR report, published October 28, 2026, dives into the growing influence of AI in the workplace. Over the past three years, major employers have rolled out AI tools that can write reports, analyze data, and even make hiring decisions. IBM announced in 2023 that it would pause hiring for 7,800 jobs that AI could potentially automate. Meanwhile, customer service, data entry, and even some creative roles have seen layoffs or job changes as AI systems take over routine work.

These changes aren’t happening in a vacuum. The European Union’s AI Act, passed in 2024, sets new rules for how companies can use AI at work, especially in hiring and performance reviews. But in the U.S., there’s no federal law specifically protecting workers from being replaced or managed by AI. States like California and New York have started looking at their own regulations, but most American workers are left to navigate these changes on their own.

How This Affects Everyday People

For workers, the impact is direct and personal. If you’re in an office job, you might already notice that AI tools are doing some of the work you used to do—like drafting emails, summarizing meetings, or even screening job applications. For warehouse and retail employees, robots and AI-powered scheduling systems are changing shift patterns and expectations. According to a 2025 Pew Research poll, 62% of Americans worry that AI will make it harder to find good jobs in the next decade.

Parents and students are also feeling the ripple effects. Schools are adding AI literacy to curriculums, but not all families have access to the resources needed to keep up. Some students worry that the jobs they’re training for today might not exist by the time they graduate. Teachers, too, are seeing AI tools used for grading and lesson planning, raising questions about the future role of educators.

For those already laid off or facing job changes, the transition can be tough. Our AI layoffs tracker shows that layoffs tied to automation are rising, especially in sectors like finance, media, and logistics. Many workers are being told to "upskill"—learn new digital or technical skills—to stay relevant. But not everyone has the time, money, or support to do so.

The Bigger Picture

The SCOR report is just one sign of a larger trend. In 2024, Goldman Sachs estimated that AI could impact up to 300 million jobs worldwide. While some roles will disappear, others will change shape or be created from scratch. For example, demand for "AI trainers"—people who teach AI systems how to do their jobs—has risen by 40% in the last two years, according to LinkedIn data.

But the quality of work is shifting, too. Some jobs are becoming more stressful as workers are expected to do more with less, or to supervise AI systems that make mistakes. There are also growing concerns about fairness and transparency—especially when AI is used to decide who gets hired, promoted, or let go. The EU’s AI Act requires companies to explain how their AI systems make decisions, but U.S. workers often have no such rights.

For those wondering if their own job is at risk, our explainer on AI and job replacement breaks down which roles are most vulnerable and which are more "AI-proof." Jobs that require empathy, hands-on work, or deep expertise—like nursing, plumbing, or counseling—are less likely to be automated soon. But even these fields are seeing changes as AI tools become more common.

What You Can Do

• Stay informed: Follow reliable sources about how AI is changing your industry. Don’t rely on hype—look for real numbers and stories from workers like you.
• Learn new skills: Many community colleges and public libraries now offer free or low-cost courses in digital literacy and basic coding. Even basic familiarity with AI tools can make you more competitive.
• Know your rights: If you’re in the EU or certain U.S. states, you may have rights to know when AI is used in hiring or firing decisions. Ask your employer about their policies.
• Talk to your kids: If you’re a parent, discuss with your children how technology is changing work. Encourage them to explore both technical and "human" skills like communication and critical thinking.
• Connect with others: Workers’ groups, unions, and online forums can offer support and advice. Sharing experiences can help you spot trends and push for fairer policies.

The Bottom Line

AI is no longer a distant threat or promise—it’s reshaping real jobs and lives today. While some changes may create new opportunities, many workers and families face uncertainty and new pressures. Staying informed, learning new skills, and supporting each other can help everyday people navigate the AI-driven future. For more on which jobs are safest, see our guide to jobs AI can't replace.