This CNBC piece does a good job capturing what a lot of people are feeling right now: AI isn’t just another tech trend, it’s starting to hit the labor market in a way that feels fast and unpredictable. The “tsunami” comparison is dramatic, but honestly… it doesn’t feel that far off when you look at how quickly companies are changing the way they work.
What stood out to me is how the layoffs aren’t always being framed as “because of AI,” even when AI is clearly part of the equation. Companies are still talking about restructuring, cost-cutting, and efficiency, but behind the scenes the message seems to be: we can do the same work with fewer people now.
The part that feels most real (and most concerning) is the impact on early-career jobs. Those entry-level roles have always been where people learn the basics, build confidence, and grow into bigger responsibilities. If AI starts absorbing the simpler tasks that juniors normally do, the big question becomes: how do new professionals even get a foot in the door anymore? And what happens to career development when the first steps disappear?
At the same time, I don’t think the article is saying the future is hopeless. It’s more like a warning: AI can absolutely boost productivity and help businesses move faster, but we’re not doing a great job preparing people for the shift. It feels like companies are racing to adopt the technology, while workers are left to figure it out on their own.
Overall, I see this as less of a “panic about robots taking jobs” story and more of a reality check. AI isn’t coming someday. It’s already here, and the working world is being reshaped in real time.
By Alexander White