Experts Say AI Anxiety Overblown, Opportunities Abound

Generative AI is disrupting jobs, but also creating new roles and boosting productivity for workers willing to adapt.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:36pm

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of a complex network of interconnected circuits, wires, and data streams in shades of neon blue, purple, and magenta, conceptually representing the underlying infrastructure and power of generative AI technology.The rapid advancement of generative AI is transforming the workplace, creating both disruption and new opportunities for those willing to embrace the technology.St. Louis Today

Experts say the rise of generative AI like ChatGPT is causing widespread worker anxiety about job losses, but the reality is more nuanced. While AI has led to some layoffs, it has also created hundreds of thousands of new roles in areas like AI training and ethics. Additionally, workers who embrace the technology are seeing major productivity gains. The key is a willingness to learn and adapt to the changing landscape.

Why it matters

The rapid advancement of generative AI is transforming the job market, causing significant worker anxiety about potential displacement. However, experts say this anxiety is overblown, as the technology is also creating new opportunities for those willing to upskill and work alongside AI agents.

The details

Generative AI systems like ChatGPT are automating many repetitive tasks, leading to job losses. Data shows AI was involved in 54,000 layoffs in 2025. However, the technology has also created around 280,000 new roles in areas like AI training and ethics. Additionally, workers who use AI are seeing major productivity gains, especially those without advanced degrees. The key is embracing the new technology, as AI can make workers more creative by freeing them to focus on critical thinking.

  • In 2025, generative AI was involved in 54,000 job losses.
  • In the second half of 2025, 28.3% of the U.S. working-age population used generative AI, compared to a global average of 16.3%.

The players

Liz Bentley

A workplace and career consultant at Liz Bentley Associates in New York.

Jed Ellerbroek

A portfolio manager at Argent Capital in St. Louis, Missouri.

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What they’re saying

“Change is always stressful. At the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, people didn't know there would be new jobs.”

— Liz Bentley, Workplace and career consultant

“Those opportunities will include people who will embrace the new technology. And AI can make you a lot more creative.”

— Jed Ellerbroek, Portfolio manager

What’s next

Experts recommend workers start learning generative AI by using free tools like the basic version of ChatGPT, then move on to paid versions to further develop their skills.

The takeaway

While the rise of generative AI is causing disruption and anxiety, the technology also presents significant opportunities for workers willing to adapt and upskill. By embracing AI, workers can boost their productivity and creativity, and position themselves for the jobs of the future.