Companies plan to raise new-grad hiring as students pivot toward AI skills

Companies plan to raise new-grad hiring as students pivot toward AI skills

https://wjla.com/news/local/companies-raise-new-grad-hiring-this-spring-students-pivot-toward-ai-skills-artificial-intelligence-job-market-entry-level-jobs-college-graduates-underemployment-employer-demand

Publish Date: 2026-05-12 04:31:00

Source Domain: wjla.com

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping the job market, particularly affecting entry-level workers.
• There is a significant reduction in entry-level job postings and hiring, which has been down 50% since 2019, partly driven by AI.
• Nearly 43% of recent college graduates are under-employed, working in positions that do not require their degree.
• AI has caused considerable anxiety and uncertainty among students regarding future employability and career choices.
• There is a growing demand for AI literate candidates, emphasizing the importance of human skills like creativity and critical thinking.
• Employers are actively seeking AI-skilled talent, indicating a potential shift in the job market dynamics.
• There are signs that the hiring outlook is improving, with employers planning to increase new graduate hires and entry-level worker staffing.