Is AI The Skill of Future? WEF Warns 39% of Current Job Skills Obsolete by 2030

The World Economic Forum's (WEF) ‘Future of Jobs Report 2025’ reveals that 39% of workers’ core skills will change by 2030. While this represents significant ongoing skill disruption, it is down from 44% in 2023.

Despite current uncertainty around the long-term impact of generative AI, the expected ongoing pace of disruption of skills has begun to stabilise.

The report collected insights from over 1,000 employers across 55 economies, collectively representing more than 14 million workers across 22 industry clusters to give a comprehensive analysis of the job market’s future.

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Need Upskilling in AI

For workers, skill adaptation will be critical. The report highlights the need of upskilling in AI, big data, and software development. IT specialists in robotics, autonomous systems, and renewable energy technologies are predicted to thrive in the upcoming AI era.

Technological change, geoeconomic fragmentation, economic uncertainty, demographic shifts, and the green transition individually and in combination are among the major drivers expected to shape and transform the global labour market by 2030.

AI To Restructure Job Market

Almost half of all employers plan to reorient their businesses in response to AI, while two-thirds aim to hire talent with AI-specific skills. At the same time, 40% anticipate reducing their workforce in roles where automation can take over.

Clerical and secretarial positions, such as administrative assistants, ticket clerks, and cashiers, are among those most vulnerable to automation in the coming years.

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Sectors That Prefer Humans Over AI

Despite these challenges, industries requiring human oversight and expertise are set to thrive. Sectors like delivery, construction, food processing, and farming are projected to expand. Additionally, roles in the care economy—including nursing, social work, and personal care—will grow as these professions demand an irreplaceable human touch.

The report also highlights broader trends influencing job markets. Rising costs of living could eliminate 1.6 million jobs, although respondents believe many will be replaced. Trade restrictions and economic challenges will add to the pressures reshaping global labor markets.