Sam Altman says companies embracing AI the most are actually hiring

In a recent interview on CNBC, Sam Altman challenged the prevailing notion that artificial intelligence adoption is leading to widespread job losses. He emphasized that companies implementing AI technologies are often the ones increasing their workforce rather than downsizing. Altman stated, "The companies that I know that have adopted AI the most are also the ones hiring the most," suggesting that those announcing layoffs are typically the least engaged with AI. His remarks come at a time when many workers are feeling anxious about the potential impact of generative AI on employment, especially in white-collar sectors. While some leaders in the tech industry, including Mustafa Suleyman from Microsoft AI and Dario Amodei of Anthropic, have expressed concerns that AI could displace many jobs, Altman maintains an optimistic outlook based on the practical application of tools like OpenAI's Codex. Altman acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding AI's long-term effects on jobs but noted that his perspective has shifted positively as he observes how businesses are utilizing AI. He remarked, "I think I underestimated how jagged these models are going to be," indicating that while AI excels in specific tasks, it struggles with complex, long-term project management. Public sentiment reflects a growing unease about AI, with a recent Pew Research Center poll revealing that 50% of Americans feel more concerned than excited about its increasing presence in everyday life. This anxiety has been exacerbated by several tech companies, including Block, Cisco, Coinbase, Snap, and Salesforce, attributing job cuts to AI advancements. Additionally, Altman expressed regret over past communications from OpenAI that may have fueled public fear about job losses. He specifically referenced a December press release regarding GPT-5.2, which claimed that the model outperformed professionals in 44 occupations. Altman clarified, "What I wish we had said then is that it outperforms professionals at small tasks in 44 occupations, which is, I think, a more accurate thing." The backdrop of Altman's interview was the groundbreaking of a significant new data center project in Saline Township, Michigan, which is designed to generate one gigawatt of power—approximately five times the capacity of typical data centers. OpenAI has touted this initiative as a boon for the local economy, promising the creation of 2,500 union construction jobs and 450 permanent positions. However, the project has faced local opposition, highlighted by the recent resignation of the township treasurer, who cited threats received following the project's approval. Altman concluded by reflecting on the transformative nature of this technological shift, stating, "This is not even a technological shift that happens every generation. This is one of the big ones."