8 Jobs Likely to Disappear in the Next Decade: The Industries Facing Technological Extinction

1. Delivery and Taxi Drivers

Back in the early 2010s, everyone assumed self-driving cars would replace human drivers by 2020. While that prediction was overly optimistic, the technology hasn’t stopped evolving. With ongoing improvements in autonomous vehicle safety and functionality, the future of human-operated vehicles remains uncertain. It might be 10 years or 20, but it’s hard to imagine millions of drivers on the road once automated alternatives prove to be safer and more efficient.

2. Travel Agencies

For most people, travel planning has become a DIY affair thanks to online platforms like Skyscanner, Airbnb, and Google Flights. The middle class no longer needs a personal travel agent to find the best deals. While high-end bespoke travel services will survive for luxury travelers, the demand from the broader public is disappearing rapidly.

3. Newspaper and Magazine Publishing

Printed newspapers and magazines are struggling to stay relevant in a world dominated by digital media. Although iconic brands like The New York Times and The Washington Post may continue to print, it’s more about prestige than necessity. Print editions are becoming niche products, reserved for those who view them as collectibles or nostalgic memorabilia.

4. Coal Energy and Mining

Coal is one of the most endangered industries in the US, and for good reason. Environmental concerns and the rise of renewable energy have put immense pressure on coal. Its decline is all but inevitable as cleaner, more efficient energy sources take over.

5. Data Entry

As companies increasingly automate their data collection and analysis, the need for human data entry workers dwindles. AI systems can now capture, process, and analyze information more accurately and in less time, making this low-skill role one of the first to be eliminated.

6. Low-End Customer Support

AI chatbots and automated voice systems are quickly becoming the front-line workers of customer support. While complex issues may still require human intervention, most routine inquiries are already being handled by AI, leaving less need for entry-level support personnel.

7. Low-End Legal Research

Artificial intelligence is making its way into the legal field as well, particularly in areas that require extensive research. Tools are being developed to sift through legal databases, case laws, and precedents at a fraction of the time (and cost) it would take a human team. As AI becomes more reliable, fewer junior legal staff will be needed to carry out this kind of research.

8. Freelance Writing

Even creative fields like writing aren’t immune to the AI revolution. While experienced writers will still find work producing niche, first-hand, or highly creative content, more routine writing jobs are already being outsourced to AI. With its ability to analyze data and mimic human style, AI could eventually push much of the freelance writing industry to the fringes.

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These industries are all facing significant challenges as technology continues to advance at a breakneck pace. While some roles may still exist, they’re likely to look very different—or be significantly diminished—within the next decade.