The Blubber

Nearly half of Gen Z job seekers now believe college wasn’t worth the investment — citing AI’s impact on the job market as the reason, according to a new report from Indeed.

The study, conducted by Harris Poll and based on responses from 772 U.S. workers and job hunters with at least an associate’s degree, shows a stark generational divide: 49% of Gen Z respondents say their education has lost its value due to AI, compared to just a third of millennials and only 20% of baby boomers.

As artificial intelligence reshapes industries at breakneck speed, younger workers — especially recent graduates — are feeling increasingly sidelined. Companies are embracing AI so quickly that many roles are being redefined before new grads even get a chance to apply.

The shift is also evident in job postings, as more employers drop the requirement for four-year degrees. In fact, around half of Gen Z now say that pursuing college was a bad financial decision.

The broader message is clear: AI isn’t just altering job functions — it’s changing who gets hired, how much they earn, and what skills matter most. According to Linsey Fagan, Senior Talent Strategy Advisor at Indeed, AI is becoming a factor in virtually every job listing. Companies aren’t just looking for academic credentials anymore — they want candidates who understand and can work alongside AI tools.

“Success with AI requires everyone in an organization to grasp the basics of how it's used,” Fagan explained. That means leaders must not only train their teams but also adapt hiring strategies to meet this new reality.

From entry-level hires to executives, workers across all levels are being forced to evolve. The pressure to stay relevant — and AI-literate — is only growing.