An AI safety pioneer says it could leave 99% of workers unemployed by 2030 — even coders and prompt engineers

According to Roman Yampolskiy, a pioneer in AI safety, the rise of artificial general intelligence could lead to unprecedented levels of unemployment, potentially affecting 99% of the workforce by 2030. Yampolskiy, a professor at the University of Louisville, predicts that advancements in AI will enable machines to perform tasks currently done by humans across various sectors, including coding and prompt engineering. In a recent episode of the "Diary of a CEO" podcast, Yampolskiy expressed his concerns about the speed of AI development, suggesting that general intelligence systems could be operational by 2027. This rapid evolution could result in a labor market collapse just three years later. He stated, "In five years, we're looking at unemployment levels we've never seen before," highlighting the potential for widespread job displacement. Yampolskiy argues that the economic rationale for hiring human workers will diminish as AI tools and humanoid robots become increasingly capable. "If I can access a $20 subscription or a free model that performs the same tasks as an employee, why would I hire someone?" he questioned. He anticipates that within five years, not only will computer-based jobs be automated, but physical labor roles could also be replaced by robots. The implications of Yampolskiy's forecasts are dire. He believes that professions such as accounting, teaching, and even podcasting may be at risk, while skilled trades like plumbing and driving could face similar challenges in the 2030s. He remarked, "AI is far superior at designing prompts for other AIs than any human could be," suggesting that even roles once considered secure are now vulnerable. He also expressed skepticism about retraining programs, arguing that if all jobs are automated, there would be no alternative career paths available. "You cannot retrain if all jobs are automated," he stated, emphasizing the broader societal ramifications. Yampolskiy warned that the fallout from mass unemployment extends beyond economic issues, as many individuals derive their sense of purpose from their work. He posed critical questions about the future: "What do we do financially? Who's going to support us?" This stark vision contrasts with the more optimistic views of other tech leaders and researchers. While some predict significant job losses over the next two decades, many believe that new roles will emerge, allowing society to adapt to the changes brought by AI. However, Yampolskiy's remarks serve as a sobering reminder of the potential challenges that lie ahead in a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence.