At a time when many people believe artificial intelligence will take away entry-level jobs, IBM is taking a different path. The company has announced that it plans to triple its hiring for entry-level roles in the United States in 2026. This is surprising because many of these jobs are the same ones experts say AI can easily do.
According to a Bloomberg report, Nickel LaMoreaux IBM’s Chief Human Resources Officer, said the company is not cutting back on these roles. Instead, it is changing how the jobs are designed. According to her, AI can handle routine and repetitive tasks, but it cannot fully replace human thinking, judgment, and interaction.
Changing Entry-Level Jobs
IBM is trying of reshaping entry-level positions so employees focus on work that AI cannot do well. For example, junior software developers may spend less time writing basic code and more time solving real-world problems. Similarly, HR staff may handle complex situations and step in when AI systems make mistakes, instead of just answering standard questions.
The idea is to let AI manage repetitive tasks, and allow humans to focus on creativity, decision-making, and communication.
Why This Matters For The Future?
Many companies have reduced hiring for fresh graduates because they believe AI will lower costs. Some industry leaders have even warned that a large number of entry-level jobs could disappear in the coming years.
However, IBM believes cutting these roles could create bigger problems later. If companies stop hiring young professionals now, they may face a shortage of experienced managers in the future. Training new talent early helps build strong leadership over time.
Humans And AI Working Together
IBM’s approach shows that AI does not always mean fewer jobs. Instead, it can change the type of work people do. The company is betting that humans and AI can work together, rather than compete against each other.
If this strategy works, IBM could set an example for how companies manage hiring in the age of artificial intelligence.
Melanie Rosenwasser, Chief People Officer at Dropbox, also believes that younger workers are uniquely positioned to thrive in the AI era. “It’s like they’re biking in the Tour de France and the rest of us still have training wheels”.