Over half of Americans are considering a job or career change, with Gen Z and millennials leading the trend. AI tools like ChatGPT are playing a growing role in this shift, used by 34% for decisions ranging from resume writing to exploring new careers and education paths. While 54% of respondents are thinking about further education, certificate and boot camp programs are the most popular. Trust in AI remains mixed, but younger generations are increasingly relying on it to shape their professional futures.
A recent study from Southeastern Oklahoma State University reveals that artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming a trusted companion in shaping American career paths, with one in three adults (34%) now using tools like ChatGPT for job or educational decisions. The findings come as more than half (52%) of Americans say they are actively considering a career or job change, a trend led by Gen Z (57%) and Millennials (55%).
Industries most likely to see churn include marketing, transportation, arts and entertainment, hospitality, and law. AI is already playing a significant role in helping individuals explore options. Among those who’ve used AI tools:
- 43% used it to write resumes and cover letters.
- 28% to explore new roles, and
- 19% to find high-demand, high-paying jobs.
Notably, 18% said AI introduced them to careers they hadn’t previously considered.
Education decisions are also being shaped by AI, with 54% of Americans contemplating enrolling in a degree, graduate, or certificate program. Generationally:
- Gen Z: 67% considering further education
- Millennials: 57%
- Gen X: 44%
- Baby Boomers: 21%
When asked about next steps in education:
- Gen Z: 47% undergrad, 22% certificate/boot camp, 17% MBA, 10% healthcare, 5% education
- Millennials: 48% certificate/boot camp, 21% MBA, 18% undergrad, 7% healthcare, 5% education
- Gen X: 50% certificate/boot camp, 21% undergrad, 17% MBA, 7% healthcare, 6% education
- Boomers: 70% certificate/boot camp, 20% undergrad, 10% MBA
Career research using AI also varies by generation:
- Gen Z: tech, healthcare, science/research
- Millennials: tech, finance, healthcare
- Gen X: tech, healthcare, arts/entertainment
- Baby Boomers: tech, healthcare, finance
Trust in AI remains mixed. While 52% “somewhat” trust AI advice, only 7% trust it more than human advisors, another 24% trust both equally, while 60% still prefer human experts. Interestingly, 17% have followed AI advice even when it contradicted a human advisor.
When asked if they’d follow AI advice discouraging a dream job:
- 20% would still pursue it
- 24% would reconsider
- 41% were unsure
So far, AI advice adoption varies:
- Gen Z: 25% followed and are glad, 19% rejected, 3% regret, 54% still considering
- Millennials: 21% followed and glad, 15% rejected, 3% regret, 61% considering
- Gen X: 21% followed and glad, 14% rejected, 2% regret, 62% considering
- Boomers: 6% followed and glad, 18% rejected, 76% still considering
As AI becomes more central in career development, L&D leaders and employers must anticipate its role in how workers assess risks, pursue skills, and plan futures.
