Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the workforce, taking on tasks traditionally performed by humans.
One sees that from generating articles and composing music to writing code, AI’s expanding capabilities are prompting concerns among workers about their job security.
According to DAAD’s Scholarship Forum, self-driving cars are now navigating public roads, while AI chatbots manage customer service inquiries, underscoring the increasing integration of AI into daily life.
Although some jobs face risks due to AI, observations show that numerous careers will continue to rely on human skills and that many positions require qualities like empathy, creativity, and problem-solving, which machines cannot replicate.
These positions as researched are:
- AI Specialists: Demand for Builders of Tomorrow
Reports inform that the rise of AI has created a strong demand for professionals who can develop and manage AI systems.
Roles such as AI developers, engineers, and ethicists are essential to ensure AI is used responsibly.
Emerging positions like “prompt engineers,” who craft the questions and instructions for AI, are gaining traction.
Hence a degree in computer science, AI, or a related field can provide a pathway to a secure career in this expanding sector are advised to be considered.
- Healthcare Professionals: Essential Human Connection
Although AI can assist with diagnosing diseases and suggesting treatments, it cannot replace the human connection vital in healthcare.
Information gathered shows that Nurses, doctors, and therapists offer empathy and critical thinking in emotionally charged situations. So while machines may perform certain medical procedures, they lack the capacity to provide reassurance and support.
The healthcare sector, according to reports, is currently experiencing a shortage of qualified professionals, so this creates opportunities for those seeking to enter this field.
According to Global Health Education, surgeons are among the highest-paid healthcare professionals, with salary packages upwards of $500,000 due to their extensive education and training, and the critical nature of their work.
According to figures from the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), they make an average income of $457,000. The demand for surgeons continues to grow strongly across the nation.
While Psychiatrists are averaging $255,000 to $275,000 annually due to their ability to diagnose and treat complex mental health issues. Demand, according to reports, for these professionals will continue to rise in the future with an estimated 5,900 jobs by 2026 according to Global Health Education.
Teachers and trainers are vital in shaping minds and fostering critical thinking, as they adapt to different learning styles, inspire curiosity, and mentor students with qualities that are uniquely human.
Reports inform that demand for skilled educators is seeing an increase, so pursuing a degree in education is a great investment for the future, as they offer a quality unmatched by AI.
- Social Workers: Navigators of Human Complexity
Social workers address complex human issues, requiring empathy and strong interpersonal skills.
While AI can analyze data, it cannot replicate the human connection necessary for supporting vulnerable communities.
Reports inform that social work is a growing field, and obtaining a degree in social work or counseling can lead to various roles in healthcare and community services.
According to Nexford, clinical social work is the field of social work that will pay the most progressively.
“Professionals in this position make as high as USD 113,000 and as low as USD 74,000 with an annual median wage of USD 91,200,” Reports state.
According to the Bureau of Labour, Child, Family, and School social workers will add the most jobs in the industry. This field is expected to generate up to 45,000 annual job openings by 2026.
Leaders: Navigating Change
Reports indicate that strategic decision-making and managing interpersonal dynamics cannot be replaced by AI.
The ability to inspire and motivate teams remains a key aspect of effective leadership.
Skills like emotional intelligence and critical thinking are crucial for leadership roles.
Reports provide that programs in business administration or leadership development would prepare individuals for opportunities across different industries.
- Cybersecurity Experts: Protectors of Data
With technology becoming integral to everyday life, the need for cybersecurity experts is seeing a steady rise in demand, according to reports.
According to TATA Consultancy Services, “the demand for cyber security professionals will grow significantly in the coming years. According to a recent study, the global cyber security workforce will need to grow by nearly 3.5 million by 2025. This growth is driven by the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber attacks.”
These professionals protect data and systems from cyber threats, using technical skills and creative problem-solving—abilities that AI struggles to replicate.
Cybersecurity, according to reports, offers high-paying roles for those especially with backgrounds in computer science or IT.
According to Bureau of Labour Statistics, cybersecurity and information security analysts earn an average annual salary of $124,740 per year ($59.97 per hour). With enough education and experience, cybersecurity can become a lucrative career choice.
- Sales and Marketing Professionals: Understanding Human Behavior
Reports provide that though AI can automate data analysis and marketing tasks, it cannot replace the creativity and strategic thinking that successful sales and marketing professionals possess.
Creativity involves generating new ideas, while strategic thinking focuses on planning and executing long-term goals. These skills allow professionals to connect with their audience in meaningful ways.
Building relationships with clients and customers requires understanding their needs and responding to them thoughtfully. Crafting narratives that resonate with people also involves emotional depth and personal touch, which AI cannot replicate.
Education in marketing or business provides foundational knowledge about market dynamics, consumer behavior, and effective communication strategies. Alongside this, strong interpersonal skills enhance a professional’s ability to engage with others, foster trust, and collaborate effectively. These qualities are important for networking and creating partnerships that can drive business success.
So while AI can support one’s work by providing data-driven insights, it is the human element that ultimately drives success in sales and marketing.
According to PayScale, the average sales and marketing manager salary in Nigeria pay ₦1,700,000 a year. While for average base salary, N203,000
- Researchers: Driving Scientific Progress
While AI can assist in research, it lacks the intuition and creativity that propel scientific discovery. Reports explains that researchers will continue to explore new questions and expand knowledge in ways AI cannot.
Hence, advanced degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are crucial for those aiming to make significant contributions to research.
- Skilled Trades: Hands-On Problem Solvers
Jobs in skilled trades, such as plumbing and electrical work, require hands-on expertise and adaptability in unpredictable environments.
These roles are challenging for AI to replicate. With a growing shortage of skilled tradespeople, now is an excellent time to pursue vocational training in these essential areas.
- Creative Professionals: The Power of Originality
Although AI can create art, music, and literature, it cannot match the emotional depth and originality of human creativity. Artists, writers, and musicians connect with audiences on a profound level.
Reports inform that pursuing degrees in fine arts, design, or creative writing can help develop skills for a successful career in the arts.
So while AI continues to evolve, good careers will rely on human abilities for the foreseeable future. As job markets shift, investing in training for these essential roles can lead to promising opportunities.