HUMAN CENTRIC APPROACH TO TECH

Fazmina Imamudeen examines the potential impacts of AI on how we work

By 2040, the way we work and roles we play will be drastically different. Technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, and reshaping industries and lives. Futurists such as Nikolas Badminton have discussed how this shift will unfold and they offer insights into future job markets.

The changing landscape will mean that we have to find new ways of thinking and developing skills; and by exploring these shifts, we can better prepare for the future.

Human centric designers and ethicists will be at the forefront of this transformation. As technology becomes woven into every part of our lives, ethical considerations will take centre stage. These professionals will ensure that new technologies are used responsibly with the welfare of people in mind.

They will work alongside tech enterprises and governments, to embed ethics into every product and service. This role would be pivotal in maintaining a human centric approach to innovation.

Alongside this, the rise of AI will lead to the emergence of new professions. Artificial intelligence psychologists will need to specialise in understanding how machines learn and interact with humans. These professionals will be able to bridge the gap between human and machine emotions, and help people steer through a future where AI is increasingly sentient.

They will ensure that artificial intelligence systems are aligned with human values and ethical standards. As the relationship between humans and machines deepens, this expertise will be essential.

The metaverse will offer another major shift in how we work and live. With advances in virtual and augmented reality, the digital world will be as important as the physical space. Metaverse architects will need to design immersive spaces where people can work, socialise and learn. These visionaries will shape the future of digital environments by integrating physical and virtual realities.

As we become more aware of the value of our personal info, the role of data economy coaches will emerge. These professionals will guide individuals in managing and profiting from their digital identities. With personal data becoming a valuable asset, people will need experts to help them understand this new economy.

Data economy coaches will ensure that people understand how to protect their information. This role will be integral to helping individuals take control of their data and its potential benefits.

With increased connectivity, the need for cybersecurity experts will increase. However, new roles will also arise to tackle the growing problem of misinformation. These experts will need to focus on ensuring privacy, security and the integrity of online spaces. And such jobs will become lucrative as the need for digital protection intensifies.

‘Biohacking’ will also emerge as a growing field in healthcare, particularly for the ultra-wealthy, and specialised healthcare professionals will focus on extending life through advanced medical technology. This will involve everything from implantable devices to cutting-edge research on longevity.

The growing focus on health optimisation will create new opportunities for professionals in this field. These developments will raise new questions about ethics, equity and the future of medicine.

In all of these emerging roles, one thing is clear – adaptability and creativity are essential. The future workforce won’t simply rely on technical expertise but also on a deep understanding of how these innovations affect society. Professionals will need to collaborate across disciplines, and think critically about how new technologies impact our work, relationships and daily lives.

While we can’t predict all the jobs that will exist in 2040, the direction that we’re heading in is clear. The foundation for these future careers is being built right now; preparing for this new era means staying curious, flexible and open to change.