AI automation is often seen as a threat to many jobs, especially in the tech world. But recent research suggests that AI might not wipe out IT roles completely. Instead, it could change how people do their jobs, making some tasks easier and shifting the focus to new responsibilities.

A big part of this discussion comes from a Microsoft Research study that looked at how a tool called Copilot is used in real life. Copilot is built into Microsoft 365, the Edge browser, and Bing search, so it’s a tool many office workers and IT professionals use every day. The study analyzed 200,000 conversations between US users and Bing Copilot in 2024, plus feedback from 100,000 users. The goal was to see how Copilot was helping different types of workers and whether it was making their jobs easier or replacing parts of their work.

What the Study Found About IT and AI

The study found that IT roles are among the most affected by AI tools like Copilot. It’s clear that AI can do many tasks that IT workers currently handle. For example, some routine coding, data analysis, or support tasks might be done more efficiently with AI assistance. But the study also points out that it’s not just about replacing workers. It’s more about changing the work itself.

It’s important to remember that the study only looked at how Copilot is used through Bing search. Other AI models might have different impacts. Plus, breaking down jobs into individual tasks doesn’t show the full picture. Many roles involve skills or actions that aren’t explicitly listed in job descriptions. So, AI might be helping with some tasks while others remain unchanged.

Will AI Make IT Jobs Obsolete?

One big question is whether automating tasks with AI will make certain jobs disappear. The researchers compare this to the rise of ATMs in the 1970s. When ATMs appeared, many thought bank tellers would become extinct. Instead, the number of tellers increased because banks opened more branches and used tellers for more complex customer service tasks. AI could have a similar effect in IT—reducing the need for some routine tasks but creating opportunities for higher-level work.

The researchers warn against jumping to conclusions that high overlap with AI tasks equals job loss. They say it’s hard to predict how technology impacts businesses in the long run. Often, new tools lead to a reshuffling of roles rather than outright job cuts. Companies may automate some tasks but then use their employees for more strategic or complex activities.

The Changing Nature of Tech Jobs

Throughout history, new technologies have constantly reshaped the job market. Today, most jobs were created in the last century thanks to technological advances. For example, cybersecurity is now a booming field, even though it barely existed before. This shows that AI might not reduce demand for IT skills but instead change what skills are needed.

The ongoing skills gap in IT is a good example. Many organizations struggle to find workers with the right expertise. As AI becomes part of the workflow, the focus will shift to developing skills in automation, AI management, and cybersecurity. It’s likely that AI will help augment human workers, making them more efficient rather than replacing them entirely.

In the end, AI’s role in IT is more about transformation than elimination. It could lead to new kinds of jobs and responsibilities that didn’t exist before. Embracing this change and learning new skills will be key for workers and organizations alike. AI isn’t necessarily an end for IT jobs but a new chapter in their evolution.

Inspired by

• https://www.computerworld.com/article/4031612/ais-long-term-impact-on-it-jobs-still-unclear-microsoft-study-suggests.html

Sources

• gmpg.org
• arxiv.org
• isc2.org
• podigee.com
• podigee.com