Man’s Bold AI Move Backfires: Boss Replaces Him With Tech | TNNEWS

Embracing AI at Work: A Double-Edged Sword

When your employer pushes for AI integration in your role, do you comply or resist? The truth is, the decision might not matter in the end.

Consider the story of Kevin Cantera from Las Cruces, New Mexico. He embraced AI tools like ChatGPT at his job, as encouraged by his company, according to a recent article in the Washington Post.

Despite his 17 years of dedication to the edutech firm, Cantera, along with several colleagues, was replaced by a large language model. This came after assurances from his boss that AI would not replace him.

The Irony of AI Collaboration

Ironically, Cantera, a researcher and historian, had grown fond of AI, describing it as an “incredible tool” for writing. He mastered the art of crafting prompts to generate accurate information, which he diligently reviewed and edited.

“I saw the LLM as a collaborator,” Cantera shared. “My productivity soared.”

Yet, this collaboration ultimately led to his replacement.

The Broader Impact of AI in the Workplace

Cantera’s experience is not unique. Many employers are reducing their workforce, replacing employees with AI, or expecting remaining staff to handle increased workloads with AI assistance. Some have even boasted about these changes.

However, the rush to replace human expertise with AI often backfires, forcing companies to rehire human talent.

Research Challenges AI’s Promises

Recent studies question AI’s productivity claims. For instance, an MIT study revealed that 95% of companies using AI saw no significant revenue growth. Another study highlighted how AI can create inefficient workflows, burdening employees with correcting AI-generated errors.

With many colleagues gone, Cantera wonders who will manage the AI’s “workslop” at his former company.

“I doubt they can ensure quality without subject-matter experts,” Cantera told WaPo. “It’s terrifying to think they might rely solely on AI output.”

Deciding Your Path Forward

So, should you comply with or resist your boss’s AI demands? If replacement is inevitable, perhaps it’s best to leave on your own terms.

Further Reading on AI: Top AI Industry Figures Secretly Hoping AI Will Wipe Out Humankind