Show Notes 178: Young People and the Future of Work in the Age of AI

The latest Cambridge Tech Podcast episode tackles one of the most pressing challenges facing the tech industry today: how do we prepare the next generation for a world fundamentally reshaped by artificial intelligence? If you're a startup founder, investor, or tech leader, this episode demands your attention.

The Problem Is Real

The statistics are sobering. The UK has 700,000 unemployed graduates struggling to gain a foothold in the labour market1. Young people aren't just worried about AI—they're confused and increasingly anxious about their futures.

As Anne Bailey, CEO of Form the Future, explains:

"Young people are really worried. They are finding that the arrival of automation, really enhanced automation in recruitment, has made it difficult to stand out, to get through, to get seen."

The challenge isn't limited to entry-level roles either. Even traditionally secure knowledge-intensive fields like law and accountancy are seeing entry-level positions evaporate, shattering the notion of a "job for life."

This Week's Tech News Headlines

Before diving into the main interview, the episode opens with some fascinating Cambridge tech news:

• ARM's record Q3 revenue of $1.24 billion, driven by AI computing demand, despite initial stock price volatility

• UK Urban Development Corporation plans unveiled to supercharge sustainable growth in the Oxford-Cambridge corridor

• UKRI Research England's report highlighting funding gaps in early-stage scale-ups and regional disparities across the UK

• 21 to Watch shortlist showcasing breakthrough innovations in cancer treatment, brain health, mental health, and organ-on-a-chip technologies

The Real Conversation We Need to Have

What makes this episode essential listening is the nuanced, multi-stakeholder perspective it brings. The podcast brings together educators, employers, policymakers, and AI experts to explore three critical themes:

1. Self-Knowledge Over Specialisation

Anne Bailey emphasises that young people's greatest asset is self-awareness:

"Your uniqueness, your humanity, your curiosity, your interest, your values—these are the things that should be the driving factors in thinking about what work you want to do in the future."1

2. Foundational Skills Matter Most

Agnieszka Iwasiewicz-Wabnig, Director of the Maxwell Centre at Cambridge University, argues that critical thinking, ethical discernment, and mental agility are non-negotiable:

"Invest in foundational skills, invest in exercising your mental capabilities and you will be competitive against any AI."

Aga also raises an important tension: over-optimisation for productivity might actually stifle innovation. Without room for experimentation, there's no space for human creativity to thrive.

3. Responsible AI Development for Children

Maria Luciana Axente, Founder & CEO, Responsible Intelligence, highlights that most technology isn't built with young people in mind. The UK's "age-appropriate design" legislation represents a breakthrough, but urgent action is needed to prioritise children in AI policy and design.

The Ecosystem Problem

Perhaps most importantly, Liz Tolcher from PA Consulting emphasises that solving this challenge requires genuine collaboration—not siloed efforts. The Lancashire bursary scheme for year 12 students in the defence sector demonstrates what's possible when employers, government, and educators work together.

Why You Should Listen

This episode cuts through the hype and fear-mongering around AI and jobs. Instead, it offers practical insights into how organisations can attract and develop young talent, why foundational skills matter more than ever, and how responsible AI development protects future generations.

If you're building a tech company, investing in startups, or simply trying to understand how to navigate talent acquisition in 2026, this episode belongs on your playlist.

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