NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang stated that the impact of artificial intelligence extends beyond office jobs, emphasizing that blue-collar workers should also pay close attention to the technology.
In a podcast interview released on Monday with Lex Fridman, Huang discussed a wide range of topics, from AI in space to the future of work.
While blue-collar jobs have traditionally been viewed as less susceptible to AI disruption compared to technical roles like engineering, Huang argued that workers across various sectors—including agriculture and electrical work—should leverage AI to secure their professional futures.
"If I were a farmer, I would definitely use AI. If I were a pharmacist, I would use AI too," Huang said. "I would explore how it could enhance my work and enable me to become an innovator revolutionizing my industry."
Huang gave the example of programming being a significant opportunity for carpenters, noting that if he worked in woodworking, he would become "completely engrossed" in utilizing AI.
"A carpenter equipped with AI is also an architect," he explained. "They simply elevate the value they can provide to clients. Their craftsmanship is greatly enhanced."
Huang has previously expressed his conviction that "AI will transform everyone's work." While he anticipates some jobs disappearing, he also expects many new roles to be created.
During Monday's podcast, he noted that many tasks will become automated, significantly impacting certain jobs.
However, he pointed out, "If your work involves objectives that include yourself... then learning how to use AI to automate those tasks becomes crucial."
As AI technology advances, concerns about job security are growing. These worries are not unfounded; many companies have already cut thousands of jobs to prioritize new technologies and automation.
Huang's proposed solution is straightforward: regardless of your job function, become an AI expert.
This could determine whether you secure employment or face unemployment. Huang stated that in almost all cases, he would prefer to hire an AI expert over a non-expert.
"Every college student should graduate as an AI expert," Huang said, suggesting that this may help them stay ahead in an era of rapid AI development.
Huang also remarked that the age of AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) has arrived.
When Fridman asked whether AI could emulate Huang's success—founding, growing, and operating a multi-billion-dollar tech company—Huang replied that it is not impossible. He suggested that a chatbot like Anthropic's Claude might design an app costing just $0.50, used by billions, only to fade away quickly, much like many failed websites during the dot-com bubble.
He emphasized that even highly successful tech companies, including the one he leads today, are not immune to the influence of AI. He encouraged individuals to proactively embrace the technology before being left behind.
"Explore how it can transform your current job and elevate your capabilities," Huang advised.