The Dawn of Automation: A Tale of Job Displacement in Local News Production

In an unprecedented turn of events, I’ve received the difficult news from both my supervisor and the human resources department that my career, along with those of my colleagues, is undergoing swift automation. The profession I have dedicated a decade of my life to, in the realm of local news production, is being transitioned to AI-driven systems.

These systems, developed by a company known as Q AI, have the remarkable capability to fully manage the production process. They handle everything from directing to operating audio and managing graphics. In one fell swoop, these technological advancements have made our roles obsolete. At nearly 30 years old, I now face the stark reality that the job skills I honed over the years are no longer in demand.

Sadly, my station will be the first to adopt this new system within our company. Our entire production team, constituting about 20 jobs, is being let go, with the exception of my manager. The manager’s role will transition to supervising the AI system, ensuring it operates correctly and performing necessary maintenance. The adoption of this system is anticipated to roll out nationwide, potentially leading to the widespread elimination of tens of thousands of jobs within the industry.

The ripple effect of this change is significant. Among my colleagues, some are in their 50s, lack college degrees, are single, and have little to no support system for transitioning to new employment opportunities. Their futures, like mine, are now uncertain. This scenario serves as a stark illustration of our future with Artificial Intelligence — one that displaces established job sectors without offering replacement opportunities.

As we tread into this uncharted territory, the question remains: How do we prepare and adapt in a world where AI is reshaping industries? This moment in time invites a reflection on both the challenges and the potential paths forward as we navigate a future where technology increasingly intersects with our professional lives.