IBM will triple its U.S. entry-level hiring in 2026, signaling a major commitment to new talent despite the rise of AI (13/02).

Nickle LaMoreaux, IBM’s chief human resource officer, announced the initiative at Charter’s Leading with AI Summit on Tuesday. She said, “And yes, it’s for all these jobs that we’re being told AI can do.”

Entry-Level Roles Adapted for AI-Driven Workplaces

LaMoreaux explained that IBM has updated entry-level job descriptions. The new roles focus less on tasks AI can automate, such as coding, and more on people-focused activities, including customer engagement.

Building Skills for the Future Workforce

Even if IBM does not require the same number of entry-level employees as before, providing opportunities for less experienced workers helps prepare them for higher-level roles in the future.

IBM has not specified how many employees it plans to hire. TechCrunch has reached out for further details on the hiring initiative.

AI’s Expanding Impact on the Job Market

2026 may be a pivotal year for AI’s influence on employment. A 2025 MIT study found that 11.7% of jobs could already be automated by AI.

A TechCrunch survey also reported that investors expect AI’s impact on the labor market to become more visible in 2026, despite not being specifically asked about employment.

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This article was created with AI assistance.

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