I'm a data analyst who survived 3 rounds of layoffs at Block. I saw how AI was automating my work — it cost me my job. (www.businessinsider.com)

Ivan Ureña-Valdes, a data analyst at Block, recently became part of a mass layoff that affected over 4,000 employees, despite having survived previous rounds of cuts. In a reflective piece, he expressed his realization that AI technologies were rapidly automating various aspects of his job, leading him to anticipate such layoffs. Ureña-Valdes noted that significant tasks in data analysis—like dataset identification and output generation—are increasingly streamlined by AI tools, making traditional roles less sustainable. His experience illustrates a broader trend where automation is reshaping job markets, raising concerns about employment stability within the industry. This situation highlights the growing impact of AI on workforce dynamics, as companies seek cost efficiencies through automation. Ureña-Valdes acknowledged the inevitable rise of AI-driven layoffs, predicting that more job cuts will occur across various sectors. This signifies a shift in the job landscape, where roles that are financially viable may be increasingly replaced by AI, raising questions about the future of work and the skills needed in an evolving technological landscape. As he prepares for his next career move amidst these transformations, Ureña-Valdes's perspective serves as a cautionary tale for many in the tech field facing similar disruptions.