Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt warns of job risk without AI adoption

Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt has warned that professionals across various sectors, from artists to doctors, risk becoming irrelevant if they do not adopt artificial intelligence (AI). His remarks echo a recent caution from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, who warned that people who fail to embrace AI might lose their jobs to those who do.

AI or irrelevance

In a TED interview, Schmidt emphasised that AI is fundamentally reshaping professions and urged workers to integrate the technology to remain competitive.

• “You are going to lose your job to someone who is using AI,” he said.
  
• As an example, Schmidt pointed to his own entry into aerospace through acquiring a rocket company, noting that AI has enabled him to gain expertise in an unfamiliar domain.
  
• He cited research suggesting that AI could increase productivity by 30% annually.
  

Long-term impact of AI

Schmidt acknowledged that while AI may automate or disrupt entire industries, some roles will evolve rather than disappear.

• He used legal services as an example, arguing that lawyers will not become obsolete but will face more complex lawsuits.
  
• “Do you really think we are going to get rid of lawyers? No, they are just going to have more sophisticated lawsuits,” he said.
  
• Schmidt advised professionals to view AI adoption as a marathon, not a sprint, encouraging a persistent and adaptive approach.
  

Nvidia CEO’s perspective

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang also stressed the inevitability of AI’s impact during the Milken Institute’s Global Conference 2025.

• Huang noted that while AI might eliminate some jobs and create others, “every job will be affected.”
  
• He urged professionals to stay proactive: “Do not be that person who ignores this technology and as a result loses your job.”
  

Both tech leaders agree on the necessity of AI adoption for career longevity, warning that those who resist change may be left behind. As AI becomes integral to various industries, staying ahead will require a continuous learning mindset.