Amazon cloud CEO calls replacing employees with AI ‘dumbest’ idea: 5 things to know
Amazon Web Services CEO Matt Garman has strongly opposed the idea of replacing junior employees with AI, calling it one of the “dumbest” things he has ever heard. While other tech leaders warn about AI taking over entry-level jobs, Garman believes businesses must continue hiring and training young talent.
Garman calls replacing workers with AI ‘dumb’ Matt Garman, CEO of Amazon Web Services, criticised companies that want to replace junior employees with AI. Speaking on the Matthew Berman podcast, he said entry-level workers are among the least expensive and most willing to adapt AI tools. Replacing them, he argued, makes no long-term business sense.
Importance of training young talent Garman stressed that businesses should keep hiring graduates and teach them how to build software, solve problems, and adopt best practices. He warned that without nurturing new talent, companies will have no skilled workforce in the future. Training juniors, he believes, is critical for sustaining innovation in technology.
Advice for students in AI era The Amazon cloud boss also had a message for students. He suggested they should polish critical thinking skills instead of becoming experts in a single field. According to him, specialisations may become irrelevant as AI advances, but the ability to adapt and think critically will always remain valuable.
Contrasting voices in AI debate Garman’s comments contrast with OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who said AI is already beginning to act like junior employees. Altman described how workers are assigning tasks to AI agents and reviewing results, which mirrors how companies typically manage teams of junior staff. This shows differing views within the industry.
Read the latest and trending tech news—stay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation.
