Having worked for a year as the Michigan State University (Broad College of Business) MBA ‘2026 Career Liaison, I’ve found myself more deeply interested in career building. And the unending conversation at the moment: what is the future of careers? I think it is the the exact question many young professionals should be asking right now.
We are at a pivotal moment in the world of work—especially in business. The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is not something we can ignore. It’s changing everything from how we market products to how we manage supply chains.
But here’s the good news: there’s never been a better time to study business.
The Business of the Future Is Human-Led, Tech-Augmented
Let’s start here: AI is not replacing all jobs—but it is reshaping them. The careers that will thrive are the ones where humans use AI as a tool, not a threat.
So, if you’re thinking about a business degree, here are a few paths you might want to consider—and how they intersect with AI:
1. Business Analytics & Data Science
Why it matters: Every business is collecting data. The real power lies in interpreting it to make decisions.
AI relevance: AI tools can analyze data faster, but they need humans to ask the right questions, interpret the results, and make ethical decisions.
Jobs to explore: Business Analyst, Data Analyst, Market Researcher, Operations Analyst.
2. Marketing & Digital Strategy
Why it matters: Marketing today is digital-first—and driven by algorithms.
AI relevance: From personalized content to predictive customer behavior, AI is transforming how we market. But creativity, emotional intelligence, and brand strategy? Still very human.
Jobs to explore: Digital Marketer, Social Media Strategist, Growth Hacker, Brand Manager.
3. Finance & FinTech
Why it matters: The finance world is becoming more tech-driven, from budgeting apps to blockchain.
AI relevance: AI helps detect fraud, automate reports, and build predictive financial models—but ethical decision-making and strategic investment analysis still need a human mind.
Jobs to explore: Financial Analyst, FinTech Product Manager, Investment Associate, Risk Analyst.
4. Operations & Supply Chain Management
Why it matters: From sourcing to delivery, managing the flow of goods is crucial.
AI relevance: Predictive analytics, route optimization, and inventory management are increasingly AI-powered.
Jobs to explore: Supply Chain Analyst, Logistics Manager, Operations Coordinator.
5. Entrepreneurship & Innovation
Why it matters: New problems need new solutions—and entrepreneurs are at the forefront of that.
AI relevance: AI lowers barriers to entry by powering product development, automating customer support, and even creating business plans.
Jobs to explore: Founder, Innovation Strategist, Product Manager, Venture Analyst.
A Note on Soft Skills (That AI Can’t Replace)
No matter the path you choose, your biggest asset in the AI era will be your humanness. Creativity. Critical thinking. Emotional intelligence. Leadership. Storytelling. These are your power moves.
Learn AI, Don’t Fear It
You don’t need to become a coder. But understanding how AI works—and how it applies to your field—will set you apart. Take free online courses. Learn how ChatGPT or other AI tools can support your work. Be curious.
And most importantly: don’t wait for permission to start.
You’ve already asked the right question.
Now, go build the future.
If you’re a young professional navigating your next step in business—or just curious about what business looks like in a world of AI—this may just be your sign to lean in. The future isn’t waiting. It’s already here.
with Care,
Ntha
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