Indeed chief economist: Aging Baby Boomers are America’s real labor problem, not AI

In a report, she projected that the US labor force could shrink by nearly 6 million workers by 2032 due to retirement of Baby Boomers. She noted that this demographic cliff will affect sectors that are least likely to be disrupted by AI.

Gudell specified that industries such as healthcare, education, and skilled trades are among those that will face the most significant worker shortages. These sectors rely on in-person interaction and physical skills, making them less susceptible to automation. The projection is based on demographic trends and labor force participation rates.

Gudell emphasized that demographic shifts, rather than technological change, constitute the primary structural threat to the US labor market over the next decade. The report suggests that policy responses should prioritize addressing the retirement wave rather than solely focusing on AI regulation.