The AI Exodus: IBM and CrowdStrike Lay Off Hundreds as Humans Become Dispensable

Artificial Intelligence poses a risk to employment across various fields, ranging from mundane tasks to specialized careers.
CrowdStrike eliminates 500 positions due to improved efficiencies and AI-powered reshaping of operations.
IBM employs artificial intelligence to improve efficiency in human resources while boosting hiring in technical positions.

A lot of individuals are concerned that the increase in artificial intelligence and robotics might result in widespread job loss since machines can now execute tasks quicker, at lower costs, and with greater precision compared to human workers. This has sparked growing worries regarding the potential long-term effects on employment rates, salaries, and job stability.

Skilled fields like healthcare, finance, law, and technology might also face challenges despite their expertise. As AI continues to advance, it indicates that no industry can consider itself completely protected from upheaval.

These issues are no longer just theoretical; they’re turning into real challenges for certain IT professionals. Following CrowdStrike’s recent announcement, the company plans to cut approximately 500 positions, representing about 5% of its total employees.

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Realigning the business

In a

memo announcing the cuts

The CEO of the security company, George Kurtz, stated, “At CrowdStrike, we distinguish ourselves through our dedication to preventing breaches, our consistent implementation, and our pledge to safeguarding our clients.”

Currently, our customers are dealing with an escalating threat environment and increasing complexity. They rely on us to assist them in moving swiftly and operating more safely. To maintain their confidence, we are transforming our operational methods.

The firm mentioned they would be “readjusting” certain segments of their operations “in order to maintain growth with precision and control.” They further elaborated: “Artificial Intelligence has consistently been central to our operational approach. AI broadens our recruitment scope and accelerates innovation from concept to market release. Additionally, it optimizes sales strategies, enhances client satisfaction, and boosts effectiveness in all departments, whether facing customers or managing internal processes. Essentially, AI amplifies productivity at every level within the organization.”

CrowdStrike is not alone in reducing staff due to advancements in artificial intelligence technology.

The

Wall Street Journal

IBM has reportedly utilized artificial intelligence, particularly AI agents, to take over the tasks performed by around several hundred human resources employees.

As a consequence of these reductions, it managed to employ additional programmers along with more individuals for sales and marketing roles.

Although we’ve undertaken significant efforts within IBM to utilize AI and automation for specific business processes, our overall workforce has increased,” said IBM CEO Arvind Krishna to the publication. “This occurs because these tools provide additional resources that can be allocated to other sectors.

So while AI might be taking some people’s jobs, it’s resulting in an increase of opportunities in other areas.

Krishna also urged the Trump administration to increase, rather than cut, federal AI R&D funding, telling

TechCrunch

:

“We have been an extremely strong advocate – and this is both the company and me personally – on that federally funded R&D should be increased. That’s the position, which is unequivocal, and we strongly believe in that.”