~ Opinion ~

The jobs our kids dream about might not exist yet and the ones we grew up with are disappearing fast.

So, it's no surprise that parents and young people alike are wondering about the future of work for young people. Let's take a look at this together.

Parents are feeling concern but also hope

I hear from many parents who are genuinely worried.

They see traditional entry-level jobs such as checkouts and retail disappearing as AI and automation step in.

There’s anxiety about whether schools are preparing kids for this fast-changing landscape.

And a real fear that some young people might get left behind because they don’t have access to the right tools or training.

But here’s the hopeful side - many parents also believe AI can free young people from boring, repetitive work, opening the door to more meaningful, creative and human-centred roles.

Skills like empathy, adaptability and problem-solving are going to matter more than ever.

Young people feel excited but uncertain

Young people are living the AI shift right now.

Some are genuinely excited, dreaming of careers in AI, robotics or digital arts.

Others feel overwhelmed, unsure what jobs will actually be available when they finish school.

Many feel frustrated by unequal access to technology or training.

Like all of us, they're looking for clear guidance and meaningful direction with some flexibility.

There will be jobs (and a future) but they'll look different

Routine, manual jobs are shrinking.

But new roles are growing, especially ones where humans and AI work together, like:

• Tech jobs designing and overseeing AI systems.
• Healthcare, education, and caregiving - roles that need a human touch.
• Creative gigs in the green economy, entertainment and the digital world.

The future belongs to those who learn to work with AI (not against it) and lean into uniquely human skills.

AI can be creative but it won't replace people

AI is impressive - it can paint pictures, write music, and tell stories - but it’s not creating like we do.

AI doesn’t live life, it doesn’t feel heartbreak, joy or wonder, it doesn’t create from passion or purpose.

Instead, AI generates patterns based on what it’s been taught.

It’s like an echo of human creativity, but without the soul behind it.

Real creativity comes from experience, emotion and a desire to say something true and important.

The future of work is where humans and AI work together

Instead of AI replacing us, the best opportunities will be where people use AI to do more of what matters.

Think:

• Creative technologists building new digital experiences.
• AI art directors guiding machines with human vision.
• Storytellers and game designers crafting emotional journeys.
• Ethical experts ensuring AI is fair and responsible.

Remember the soft skills: empathy, storytelling, curiosity and critical thinking will be superpowers!

So, where to from here?

Whether you’re a parent or a young person, start thinking about purpose.

What drives you? What do you want to create or build in the world?

This isn’t just about jobs — it’s about meaning.

Invest time in learning how AI works, but don’t lose sight of the human qualities that no machine can touch.

And stay curious and adaptable because this future will keep evolving.

“AI won’t take your job. But someone who knows how to use AI might.”

The future needs people who can be that someone.

Jenny Bean is a professional member of the Career Development Association of NZ (CDANZ). If you are looking for career development support (personal or organisational), contact her at CareerBeanz.