Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has highlighted three careers he believes are unlikely to be replaced by artificial intelligence: biologists, energy specialists, and software developers.
Gates explained that these professions require creativity, intuition, and complex problem-solving — traits that AI has yet to fully replicate.
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While recognizing AI’s transformative potential, Gates emphasized that it cannot replace the kind of human insight essential in scientific and technical fields. He noted that AI can aid with data analysis and decisions, but the conceptual breakthroughs and hypothesis-building done by biologists remain uniquely human tasks.
He also pointed out the continued relevance of energy experts and programmers. Energy professionals are key in addressing climate change and unpredictable global energy demands, while programmers are needed to develop, oversee, and update the very AI systems reshaping industries.
Gates acknowledged that while AI may assist in writing code, the development of innovative or highly specialized systems still depends on human adaptability and understanding — especially in response to emerging threats and evolving technologies.
During a recent appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, Gates humorously added athletes to the list, saying, “We won’t want to watch computers play baseball,” implying that some roles will always be reserved for humans.
Despite growing concerns over AI-related job displacement, Gates remains hopeful, viewing AI as a powerful tool for advancing healthcare, education, and agriculture — provided its development is guided by responsible policies and ethical frameworks.
As the founder of Microsoft in 1975, Gates has been a leading voice on the societal impact of emerging technologies, including AI, climate change, and global health.
