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Women at the sharp end as AI takes over administrative roles

The article highlights that AI automation is disproportionately affecting women in clerical and administrative roles. According to Brookings, about 6 million US workers are most exposed, with over 85% being women. Job postings for administrative assistant roles have fallen 5.4% below pre-Covid levels, and the gender pay gap has widened after decades of progress. Workers like Jennifer Maffei and Kelly Norton illustrate the struggle, with many facing lower pay and limited retraining opportunities. The ILO study found women in high-income countries are nearly three times more likely to be in roles at risk of automation. The article contrasts with male-dominated professions like software development, which have better financial buffers and diverse skills. Some workers remain optimistic, emphasizing the need for human nuance in high-level administrative tasks. Overall, the trend poses significant risks to gender equality and requires corporate and policy interventions.