AT&T is deploying AI in network operations; an internal source speaks of a target to reduce the workforce to 85 000 by 2030
AT&T is deploying AI in network management, customer service and code development, and starting next year it will replace hardware at thousands of nodes with cloud software from DriveNets. An internal source cites a target of reducing the workforce from 131 000 to 85 000 employees by 2030; the company called this figure inaccurate.
The case shows that AI poses the greatest threat to middle management and junior developer positions, while demand is growing for people capable of developing and overseeing AI agents and maintaining physical infrastructure (optical fiber) — a relevant reference point for anyone in telecommunications or networking.