AI, Layoffs, and the Future of Work: Students Envision Industry Perspectives During Campus Keynote

Speaking candidly, AI advocate and multiplatform database administrator, Kelly Gorman, presented the promises, risks, and growing uncertainty surrounding AI in today’s fast-moving and unpredictable workforce. 

“We have to cut through the hype,” Gorman told attendees of a keynote presentation and audience discussion hosted by the MIS (Management Information Systems) Club. 

She criticized companies for what she described as “trying to win an AI race [in which they] don’t even know where the finish line is.” 

Gorman pointed to layoffs across the tech industry, including Oracle, where companies later realized that experienced workers were still necessary to maintain critical systems and operations. 

“They had to have people keep the lights on,” Gorman added while discussing the limits of automation in highly technical environments. 

Additionally, Gorman warned students about cybersecurity and privacy risks that come with the rapid expansion of AI tools, particularly when users upload sensitive information into public platforms without understanding where that data goes. 

She explained that many organizations are struggling to balance innovation with security and operational concerns as employees adopt AI tools faster than companies can regulate them.  

Employees will unintentionally expose private company information when trying to analyze data or improve workflow with public AI systems. 

However, Gorman also acknowledged the significant productivity benefits AI can offer when used responsibly. Drawing from her own technical work, she described using Claude Code to assist with scripting, technical documentation, and infrastructure projects that she still oversees and manages herself. She names AI a “collaborator” rather than a replacement for workers. 

Several attendees raised questions about shrinking entry-level opportunities, internships that no longer lead to permanent positions, and the growing expectation that workers already understand AI systems before entering the workforce. 

Karina Hattintei asked how younger professionals can differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive job market influenced by automation and AI-generated work. 

Nabaa Wali added, “…You get internships with them, and then after that they’re not hiring for that position anymore.” 

Dr. Alvarez, a professor involved with the MIS program, also asked Gorman what universities and companies should do to better prepare students for a workforce where entry-level positions are increasingly disappearing. 

“If companies are no longer looking for entry-level positions, or if those positions are no longer being taught internally, then you need something to replace that.” Alvarez continued. 

Gorman admitted that many companies are aggressively pursuing AI adoption without fully understanding how future workers will gain the experience necessary to eventually replace senior employees. 

Despite concerns surrounding automation, Gorman repeatedly emphasized the importance of networking, adaptability, and community involvement. 

“Having that network is really, really important,” she told students. “Connect with everyone. Go to events, meet people, and be part of those communities.” 

The discussion also expanded with one student asking about the challenges women encounter when entering male-dominated technical fields, and whether those barriers have improved over time. 

Gorman spoke openly about her own experiences navigating workplace culture in tech and stressed the importance of mentorship, support systems, and professional communities. 

“A lot of girls don’t think they can do it, or they don’t check all the boxes,” she commented. 

Gorman encouraged students not to wait until they feel completely qualified before pursuing opportunities, emphasizing that confidence and willingness to learn are just as important as technical expertise. 

Many students remained after the keynote ended to exchange LinkedIn profiles and discuss internships, mentorship opportunities, and the future of technology careers.  

As students prepared to leave, Gorman offered one final piece of advice: “Stay curious. Stay honest. Show up ready.”