Geoffrey Hinton, often referred to as the ‘godfather of AI,’ has shared his insights about which jobs might remain safe from AI disruption in the near future. Hinton suggests that physical jobs requiring dexterity and real-world manipulation will be among the last to be automated. He specifically points to plumbers as an example, noting that the complexity of their work in varied physical environments makes it difficult for AI to replicate. The AI pioneer emphasizes that jobs requiring direct physical interaction and problem-solving in unpredictable environments will remain relatively secure from AI replacement through 2025. However, Hinton also warns that the timeline for AI advancement is accelerating, and even these ‘safe’ professions might eventually face disruption as robotics and AI capabilities continue to evolve. He expresses particular concern about AI’s rapid advancement in cognitive tasks, suggesting that knowledge-based and office jobs might be more vulnerable to AI disruption in the short term. Hinton’s observations come amid growing global discussion about AI’s impact on employment, following his departure from Google to speak more freely about AI risks. His insights provide valuable perspective for workforce planning and career decisions, though he emphasizes that the long-term implications of AI development remain uncertain and potentially more far-reaching than currently anticipated.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/geoffrey-hinton-godfather-of-ai-safe-jobs-2025-6