By Anjali Solanki
The rise of artificial intelligence has sparked widespread concern, particularly among young people entering fields like construction, hospitality, and labor. Will AI take over these physical jobs, leaving the next generation scrambling? To address this pressing question, I talked with two experts: Ingarloss Karam, former ANI journalist, Professor of Mass Communication, and tech expert, and Harish Patidar, Director of MIT’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Department. Their insights offer a refreshing perspective, turning fear into opportunity for the youth shaping the future of work.
AI Posing Job Threat?
The fear that AI will replace physical jobs is palpable, but Prof. Karam argues it’s often exaggerated. “AI is great for repetitive, data-driven tasks like assembly lines or basic data entry,” he explains. “But physical jobs like construction or hospitality? They require emotional intelligence, dexterity, and adaptability, which AI can’t easily replicate.” He points out that while a robot might vacuum a hotel room, it lacks the human touch of a concierge who can read a guest’s mood or a carpenter crafting something unique.
Harish Patidar takes a complementary view, framing AI not as a threat but as a partner. “In construction, AI-powered exoskeletons help workers lift heavier loads safely, boosting productivity,” he says. “In hospitality, AI handles repetitive tasks like inventory management, freeing staff to create memorable guest experiences.” For Patidar, AI augments human work, enhancing efficiency and opening new possibilities.
Addressing the Entry-Level Concern
One lingering worry is that AI could reduce demand for entry-level roles, a critical stepping stone for young workers. Patidar acknowledges the concern but sees it as a catalyst for growth. “Some repetitive tasks like basic cleaning or inventory checks might be automated, but this creates opportunities,” he notes. “It pushes workers to focus on higher-value roles.” In construction, for example, AI can handle site mapping, but human decision-making and creative problem-solving remain essential. His advice? “Young people should learn to work with AI, using tools like predictive maintenance software. Free tutorials on YouTube or platforms like Udemy can get them started.”
Prof. Karam agrees, emphasizing the adaptability of digital natives. “Entry-level roles might shift, but that’s not a bad thing,” he says. “In hospitality, they could learn data analytics to personalize guest services. In manufacturing, new roles like ‘robot coordinator’ are emerging to manage AI systems.” His practical tip: “Take a Coursera course, learn one skill, and combine it with human strengths like empathy or creativity. Small steps lead to big opportunities.”
A Mindset Shift for the Future
For young people paralyzed by fear about their career paths, both experts advocate a proactive mindset. Prof. Karam’s advice is direct: “Stop overthinking and start acting. You’re a digital native you’ve got an edge. Combine your human ingenuity with tech fluency. Learn one new skill, like using AI tools for data analytics or operating smart machinery. The future belongs to those who take action, not those who fear it.”
Patidar echoes this call to action, urging youth to embrace AI as a teammate. “Don’t wait for permission,” he says. “Dive in and explore AI tools in your field. Whether it’s hospitality or construction, see AI as a tool to stand out. Experiment with software that predicts maintenance needs or analyzes customer preferences. The ones who succeed will be those who embrace AI to shine.”
Shaping the Future of Work
The discussion with Prof. Karam and Mr. Patidar transforms fear into opportunity. AI isn’t coming for your job it’s waiting for you to harness it. By learning new skills, experimenting with AI tools, and combining them with uniquely human strengths, young people can thrive in an AI-driven world. As Prof. Karam puts it, “The future belongs to those who take action.” So, to the youth reading this: the future of work is yours to shape. Get to work!