The acceleration in technological advancements has disrupted numerous industries, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) being a significant driver. This is a salient issue: McKinsey Global Institute’s November 2025 report found that current AI and robotics technologies could, in theory, automate 57% of US work hours today.
However, the consultancy stresses this measures technical potential rather than inevitable job losses – work is evolving into a partnership between people and machines, not a wholesale replacement. Yet, while some professions may dwindle, others promise stability and are less likely to be usurped by AI. Today, we’re exploring 10 such careers anticipated to be in-demand for 2026.
Mental Health Professionals
The societal impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have significantly increased the demand for mental health services, with the role of psychologists ever more crucial in meeting this need in today’s complex and ever-evolving society.
AI may assist with diagnosis and treatment options, but it can’t replicate the human touch necessary for empathetic listening and understanding that counsellors, therapists and psychologists so deftly display.
Private counselling in London has seen particular growth, with practitioners earning an average of £45,000 per year – and experienced therapists in private practice commanding significantly more.
Sustainability Professionals
According to the World Economic Forum, climate change is the foremost global risk for the following decade. Thus, the demand for sustainability professionals who can lead and implement green initiatives in businesses and government organisations is high. Roles such as sustainability consultants, energy auditors, and environmental engineers necessitate problem-solving, strategic thinking, and innovation, areas where AI still lags behind humans.
Data Scientists & Analysts
Data is the fuel that drives AI. Effective interpretation and utilisation of this data remains a human forte. The Harvard Business Review termed Data Science “The Sexiest Job of the 21st Century”, and with the surge in digitalisation, this trend shows no signs of slowing down. Data scientists employ critical thinking, problem-solving, and industry-specific knowledge – skills that AI has yet to master entirely.
Cybersecurity Specialists
The rise of AI and digital technologies has opened new frontiers for cybercrime. The UK government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2021 found that around four in ten businesses experienced cybersecurity breaches or attacks in the last 12 months. Professionals who can safeguard our digital landscapes are, therefore, in high demand.
Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare professions like nursing, occupational therapy, and aged care continue to demand a uniquely human touch. While AI can enhance diagnostics and treatments, the interpersonal skills, empathy, and ethical judgement required in these roles keep them relatively AI-proof.
Skilled Tradespeople
Plumbers, electricians, and construction workers perform tasks that require fine motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability to unpredictable field conditions. The tactile and physical aspects of these professions make them harder to automate, and, therefore, this career will potentially be secure from further AI encroachments into the workforce.
HGV Drivers
Despite advancements in autonomous driving technology, the demand for Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) drivers remains high. As reported by AFE Recruitment, the British Government’s recent initiative to ease the shortage of lorry drivers points to the ongoing necessity of this profession.
The judgement required for safe driving in complex and frequently changing environments keeps this profession largely protected from AI, with HGV training still very much being conducted by humans for humans.
Educators
While edtech brings innovative tools to the classroom, effective teaching remains an intrinsically human job, requiring emotional intelligence, adaptability, and the ability to form meaningful relationships. A report published in Futurism underscored the importance of human interaction in education, suggesting AI might simply help make teachers more effective by facilitating a better understanding of their needs.
Legal Professionals
Legal services entail a high degree of human judgement, ethics, negotiation, and advocacy. Although AI can assist with tasks like legal research and contract analysis, it is unlikely to replace the nuanced human intelligence required in this field.
Creative Professionals
Whether it’s writing, design, or music, jobs in the creative industry rely on human ingenuity, emotion, and cultural understanding. These are traits AI has yet to replicate, making the creative industry one of the safest havens from AI disruption.
The Bottom Line
The rapid growth of AI presents both challenges and opportunities. While some fear it may lead to job displacement, it also ushers in new roles that require the irreplaceable abilities of humans. These nine careers represent just a few examples of professions expected to remain in demand and largely resistant to AI as we move into 2026.
However, this doesn’t suggest complacency. Continual self-development, upskilling, and adaptability will be key in maintaining relevance in this ever-evolving job market. In the words of Albert Einstein, “The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” Embracing this wisdom is perhaps the best career advice for the era of AI.
