Tech giants often dismiss fears that artificial intelligence could drastically reduce employment, but Steven Preston, CEO of Goodwill Industries, warns the impact is already visible. In an interview with Fortune, Preston revealed that AI-driven layoffs are underway in call centers, sales roles, and other entry-level positions. “We are preparing for a flux of unemployed young people—as well as other people—from AI,” he said, highlighting an urgent challenge for the workforce.
Gen Z Non-Grads at the Frontline
Entry-level roles, often the first step for young adults without college degrees, are being hardest hit. Preston explained that these jobs historically provide foundational skills and mentorship. “For young people at that point in their life, to attach to something where they can see a future is so important,” he said. Data indicates that unemployment among Gen Z non-graduates is already alarming, with young men particularly affected.
The Domino Effect on the Workforce
Preston warned that the AI disruption will not remain confined to low-wage positions. As entry-level opportunities shrink, career pipelines for mid-level and senior roles may also falter. “Those entry-level roles were the places where they built core skills, where they had an opportunity to be mentored, and grew up in the organization,” he said. This shift could fundamentally change career progression across industries.
Digital Skills and AI Literacy as Lifelines
To counter the challenge, Preston urges young people to adapt quickly. “Digital skills are really critical,” he told Fortune, noting that proficiency goes beyond casual smartphone use. Mastering workplace tools like Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, and AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Gemini is increasingly decisive. Early adopters of AI tools are already gaining an advantage in the competitive job market.
Alternative Pathways Beyond Corporate Careers
For Gen Zers not pursuing traditional corporate paths, Preston recommends learning clean tech and other emerging skills. He also sounded a warning for older job seekers: “If you are someone seeking a job in your 30s—or even 40s—and you haven’t acquired those skills, you’re pretty much locked out of a massive percentage of the jobs that are available in the marketplace.”
Despite the challenges, Preston offered a hopeful perspective. Individuals who acquire the right digital and AI skills can transform their career prospects rapidly. He recounted success stories, including two women who transitioned from homelessness to employment at Accenture, demonstrating the transformative power of skill-building in a changing job landscape.
Gen Z Non-Grads at the Frontline
Entry-level roles, often the first step for young adults without college degrees, are being hardest hit. Preston explained that these jobs historically provide foundational skills and mentorship. “For young people at that point in their life, to attach to something where they can see a future is so important,” he said. Data indicates that unemployment among Gen Z non-graduates is already alarming, with young men particularly affected.
The Domino Effect on the Workforce
Preston warned that the AI disruption will not remain confined to low-wage positions. As entry-level opportunities shrink, career pipelines for mid-level and senior roles may also falter. “Those entry-level roles were the places where they built core skills, where they had an opportunity to be mentored, and grew up in the organization,” he said. This shift could fundamentally change career progression across industries.
Digital Skills and AI Literacy as Lifelines
To counter the challenge, Preston urges young people to adapt quickly. “Digital skills are really critical,” he told Fortune, noting that proficiency goes beyond casual smartphone use. Mastering workplace tools like Microsoft Excel, Google Docs, and AI platforms such as ChatGPT and Gemini is increasingly decisive. Early adopters of AI tools are already gaining an advantage in the competitive job market.
Alternative Pathways Beyond Corporate Careers
For Gen Zers not pursuing traditional corporate paths, Preston recommends learning clean tech and other emerging skills. He also sounded a warning for older job seekers: “If you are someone seeking a job in your 30s—or even 40s—and you haven’t acquired those skills, you’re pretty much locked out of a massive percentage of the jobs that are available in the marketplace.”
Despite the challenges, Preston offered a hopeful perspective. Individuals who acquire the right digital and AI skills can transform their career prospects rapidly. He recounted success stories, including two women who transitioned from homelessness to employment at Accenture, demonstrating the transformative power of skill-building in a changing job landscape.
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