Google DeepMind CEO Urges Teens to Master AI Tools to Stay Ahead in Future Job Market

Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis recently emphasized the importance of young people preparing for an AI-driven future. Speaking on an episode of "Hard Fork," a podcast about technology's future, Hassabis suggested that just as millennials adapted to the internet and personal computers, and Generation Z grew up with smartphones and tablets, Generation Alpha should embrace generative AI. This technology, he believes, will be the defining technological shift of their time. Hassabis pointed out that, within the next 5 to 10 years, significant job disruptions will occur due to AI advancements. However, he is optimistic that these changes will create more valuable and interesting job opportunities. The AI landscape has been rapidly evolving since the release of OpenAI's ChatGPT in 2022, driving both enthusiasm and apprehension about its impact on the workforce and society. Google DeepMind, known for developing groundbreaking AI models like AlphaGo and Gemini, is at the forefront of this evolution. Hassabis, a prominent figure in the field, is pushing Google toward the ultimate goal of achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). AGI is an AI system capable of reasoning and understanding like a human, and Hassabis believes DeepMind could achieve this milestone within a decade. In his view, understanding AI tools is crucial for young people's future. "Whatever happens with these AI tools, you'll be better off understanding how they work, and how they function, and what you can do with them," Hassabis stated. He advised college-bound students to immerse themselves in AI, aiming to become experts—or as he called it, "ninjas"—in using the latest technologies. This includes honing skills like coding while developing broader competencies such as creativity, adaptability, and resilience. Other industry leaders share Hassabis’s perspective. Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman encourages young people to experiment with AI, identifying its strengths and weaknesses. Higher education institutions are also responding; Rice University, for example, has joined the list of universities offering AI degrees. Hassabis emphasized that fundamental STEM skills are still essential. "These meta skills, like creativity, adaptability, and resilience, are what will be important for the next generation," he noted. The combination of deep technical knowledge and these versatile abilities will be key to thriving in an increasingly AI-integrated world. According to Hassabis, the current pace of AI development means that by the time today’s teenagers enter the job market, many of the roles they are preparing for may no longer exist in their current form. Instead, new professions requiring specialized AI literacy will emerge. Understanding the nuances of AI, its capabilities, and limitations, will enable young people to navigate these changes effectively and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The rapid advancement of AI is already evident in the proliferation of chatbots, image generators, and other AI applications. Hassabis sees these technologies as powerful tools that can enhance productivity, innovation, and problem-solving. However, they also present challenges, such as the need for ethical guidelines and regulations to ensure responsible use. On the live stage at the Google I/O developer conference, Hassabis reiterated his commitment to achieving AGI, stating that DeepMind is actively working toward this goal. The pursuit of AGI is critical, he argues, as the ability to replicate human-like reasoning and understanding in machines can lead to transformative solutions across various fields, from healthcare to climate change. Industry insiders like Hassabis and Suleyman see AI as a pivotal force in the near future, urging young people to start learning now. They believe that early familiarity with AI will provide a significant advantage. Universities, too, are adapting curricula to meet this demand, recognizing the need to equip students with the skills to shape and utilize AI in their future careers. Google DeepMind, founded in 2010 and acquired by Google in 2014, has been a leader in AI research and development. With notable achievements like AlphaGo, which defeated the world champion in the complex board game Go, and Gemini, a sophisticated chatbot, DeepMind continues to push the boundaries of AI technology. Under Hassabis's leadership, the company is not only advancing AI capabilities but also fostering a culture of learning and innovation among its employees, reflecting his broader advocacy for AI education. In conclusion, Hassabis’s call for teens to become AI-literate underscores the need for a proactive approach to technology education. As AI reshapes industries and workplaces, cultivating a deep understanding of AI tools and techniques, alongside foundational STEM skills and meta-skills, will be essential for the next generation to remain competitive and contribute meaningfully to a rapidly evolving tech landscape.