Exclusive: Young AI users more hopeful about jobs, study finds

Young Americans who regularly use AI tools are more optimistic about their careers than those who do not, according to new data from American University's Sine Institute. The data suggests that fear of AI may be holding people back and could widen opportunity gaps. Those who use AI tools tend to view them as enablers of career growth, with only 44% of regular AI users believing that AI will limit their future job opportunities. In contrast, 71% of those who have never tried AI believe it will limit their job prospects. Researchers conducted 1,214 interviews with Americans aged 18 to 34 to gather this data. Despite the optimism from heavy AI users, there is still a significant amount of fear and unease about the technology among young people. Over half of all young people surveyed see AI as a threat to their careers, and only 21% feel more excited and positive about AI than concerned and anxious. The data also reveals a stark divide between young men and women, with 30% of men believing AI can help them advance their careers, compared to only 13% of women. A significant share of people are unsure about how AI will affect their future, echoing general confusion over AI in schools and the workplace. The study highlights the importance of AI education and literacy, with a majority of young people believing it is essential to prepare them for their careers, but also notes that AI literacy is not being taught in many cases, which could exacerbate the knowledge gap and determine who benefits from AI and who gets left behind.