Tech Leaders Predict a Surge in Human Hiring as Workers Embrace AI Skills

Despite fears that AI will lead to widespread job losses, a recent Deloitte survey finds that most senior managers believe AI will actually generate more work, especially in the tech sector. As companies continue to expand their use of generative AI, executives foresee a growing need for skilled workers to oversee and integrate the technology into their operations.

The survey revealed that nearly 70% of tech leaders anticipate increasing their headcount to handle the growing demand for AI-related roles. As businesses shift from using AI as an experimental tool to an engine of transformation, the need for human oversight and innovation will become crucial. Nearly 60% of companies plan to establish global capability centers to recruit and train people for these emerging roles within the next two years.

However, the survey also highlights a shortage of employees with the necessary skills to effectively implement AI. To address this, companies are prioritizing AI in areas like cybersecurity, cloud orchestration, and data science, while also aiming to reduce costs, expand into new markets, and attract more customers.

Leaders within companies are increasingly focusing on ensuring that AI strategies align with broader business goals and engaging with employees at all levels to understand the challenges they face in adapting to AI. The key, according to experts, will be rethinking talent, operating models, and ways of working to stay ahead of the disruption.

As for employees, executives are encouraging them to embrace AI, gain firsthand experience, and focus on the areas where human skills—such as critical thinking, empathy, and problem-solving—remain irreplaceable by machines. This shift is expected to create new opportunities for those who can adapt to the evolving tech landscape.