AI could replace more than 26 million U.S. jobs in low skilled industries by 2027, according to the World Economic Forum.
"Roles such as data analysts, scientists, machine learning specialists and cyber security experts could grow as much as 30% within the next five years" due to expanded use of AI, according to the Chamber of Commerce's analysis. Even though Macpherson doubts AI will send short-term shockwaves through the labor market, he said San Antonio is taking some of the right steps to future-proof its economy. Still, he added, leaders should take steps now to mitigate technology's effects on low-skilled and low-wage workers.San Antonio ranks as the No. 6 metro when it comes to risk of AI-spurred job losses between now and 2027, according to Chamber of Commerce.
Those same office and administrative support occupations have already experienced the steepest employment declines in the San Antonio area over the past five years, according to the study. The space has shed 29,790 jobs locally since 2018. Expansions in other parts of the economy will offer other jobs for low-skilled workers, the economist said, pointing to home healthcare aids and personal care aids. Neither of those professions requires a college degree, yet they're among the fastest growing in the U.S., according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Earlier this year, the University of Texas at San Antonio teamed up with the University of Texas Health Science Center to offer a Doctor of Medicine and Master of Science in AI, a five-year dual-degree program.