While white-collar workers have been the focus of much discussion about AI’s impact on jobs, a new report shows that workers without four-year degrees are also facing significant disruption. AI threatens not just individual job roles but entire career pathways, especially those involving “Gateway” jobs that serve as stepping stones for millions of workers without college degrees (known as STARs) towards better-paying roles. Over 15 million such workers are in positions highly exposed to AI-driven changes, particularly in clerical and administrative sectors dominated by women. These Gateway roles are critical for upward mobility into “Destination” jobs like sales and accounting, many of which are also threatened by AI. This shifts the traditional job pipeline, risking the career progression of lower-wage workers and creating challenges for employers seeking experienced candidates. Furthermore, variations in industry dominance mean AI’s impact varies across regions, necessitating targeted policy and collective efforts to rebuild career pathways and support affected communities. Experts highlight the importance of regional responses to create mobility opportunities for all workers and meet employer needs.
Back
