As artificial intelligence (AI) continues its rapid ascent, it's natural for workers across industries to feel a sense of unease about the future of their jobs. Yet, amidst this technological revolution, some careers stand out as relatively safe from AI's encroachment. A recent study by Microsoft offers a fascinating glimpse into which professions are deemed less vulnerable to automation.

By analyzing 200,000 anonymized conversations between users and Microsoft Bing's AI assistant, the study assessed the AI adaptability scores of various occupations, shedding light on those that are least likely to be replaced by AI. The findings reveal a surprising resilience in medical and blue-collar jobs amidst the AI wave.

Occupations tied to information, writing, teaching, and consulting are found to be more susceptible to AI influence, while those in the medical and blue-collar sectors demonstrate a remarkable robustness. This is not to say that these jobs are impervious to change; rather, they possess qualities that make them less likely to succumb to AI's reach in the short term.

The study highlights that blue-collar jobs such as soil excavator operators, bridge and gatekeepers, and water treatment plant and system operators are among those with the lowest AI adaptability scores. These roles involve physical labor and complex interpersonal interactions, attributes that AI struggles to replicate.

Similarly, jobs like ship operation, cleaning, and general labor in the oil and gas industry are also considered safe. The simplicity of these tasks belies the intricate operations and human relations that make them difficult for AI to imitate. In the medical field, professions such as surgical assistants, massage therapists, and ophthalmic medical technicians are deemed relatively secure due to their specialized skills and high levels of emotional interaction.

Here is the ranking of the top 20 professions with the lowest AI applicability scores:

1. Dredging operators

2. Bridge and lock administrators

3. Water treatment plant and system operators

4. Molding and core-making machine operators

5. Railway track laying and maintenance equipment operators

6. Pile driver operators

7. Floor grinder and polisher operators

8. Orderlies

9. Motorboat operators

10. Logging equipment operators

11. Paving, surfacing, and compacting equipment operators

12. Maids and domestic cleaners

13. Laborers (oil and gas)

14. Roofers

15. Natural gas compressor and pump station operators

16. Helper – Roofer

17. Tire manufacturers

18. Surgical assistants

19. Massage therapists

20. Ophthalmic medical technicians

It's important to note that while these jobs are less likely to be replaced by AI, the adaptability scores do not provide a definitive prediction of a profession's future. The impact of technology is complex and often unpredictable, making it unwise to categorically determine which jobs will become obsolete.

The enduring nature of certain jobs in the face of AI underscores the fact that many professions still require human physical labor and intricate emotional exchanges. As AI continues to evolve, it's crucial to recognize the value of these human-centric qualities and the roles that continue to defy automation's grasp.