AI Making It Harder for Youth to Find Work

Since graduating high school in Metro Vancouver a year and a half ago, 20-year-old Omar Younis has struggled to secure full-time employment. Despite applying for a wide range of positions—from construction to customer service and sales—he has faced consistent rejection. This experience is becoming increasingly common among young job seekers, as artificial intelligence (AI) technologies reshape hiring practices and labor markets.

Employers are increasingly relying on AI-driven tools to screen resumes and conduct initial candidate assessments. These systems prioritize efficiency and often use algorithms to filter out applicants who do not meet specific criteria, sometimes overlooking young candidates with limited work experience or non-traditional backgrounds. As a result, many youth find themselves excluded early in the recruitment process, even before human interaction occurs.

The rise of AI in recruitment reflects broader trends in automation and digitization affecting the workforce. While AI can streamline hiring and reduce costs for companies, it also raises concerns about fairness and accessibility. Young people, especially those without extensive professional networks or prior job experience, may be disproportionately disadvantaged by opaque algorithmic decisions. This dynamic contributes to higher youth unemployment rates and can discourage young workers from entering certain industries.

Moreover, the impact of AI extends beyond recruitment. Automation threatens to replace entry-level jobs traditionally held by young workers, such as retail and manual labor positions. This shift reduces the availability of stepping-stone roles that help youth gain skills and experience. Without these opportunities, young workers face greater challenges in building careers and achieving economic independence.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Policymakers and educators must prioritize digital literacy and AI awareness to prepare youth for evolving job markets. Employers should ensure transparency in AI hiring tools and consider human oversight to mitigate biases. Additionally, creating programs that provide work experience and training can help young people adapt to changing employment landscapes.

The experience of individuals like Omar Younis highlights the urgent need to balance technological innovation with inclusive employment practices. As AI continues to transform how work is found and performed, ensuring equitable access to opportunities for youth will be critical to fostering a resilient and diverse workforce.