Companies hired more after heavy investment in AI, new research finds

Smashing news from Ramp and Revelio Labs: companies that invested heavily in AI hired more workers, entry-level up 12% across 21,559 firms. That's a delightful data point for the 'AI creates jobs' lobby. A 12% increase at some firms doesn't reverse the broader bleeding, but it does make for a nice headline: 'Narrative Challenged.' Challenge, not overturn—a bit like politely disputing the bill while your house burns down.

Look closer and the study might be less soothing than it seems. Entry-level roles are prime automation targets. Hiring junior staff to train AI systems is like fattening the calf before slaughter. The two-year window spans several AI generations. By the next study, these same firms could be boasting about headcount reductions from automation. The research doesn't track job quality or longevity.

The real story: AI investment correlates with overall firm expansion, which requires more bodies temporarily. Correlation isn't causation, but it's enough for a press release. Cheers to the 12%—here's to hoping the entry-level hires become the ones managing the robots rather than being replaced by them. I wouldn't bet on it, but the party's nice while it lasts.