CNBC · 19 Oct, 19:54 · Artificial Intelligence briefing

What the invention of the washing machine can teach us about AI

This article draws parallels between the historical invention of the washing machine and the current rise of artificial intelligence.

What it means for you ↓ Courses for this story

25–40%salary premium for professionals with applied AI skills

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

What happened, who it affects, and why it landed on our intelligence desk — in plain English, sixty seconds or less.

This article draws parallels between the historical invention of the washing machine and the current rise of artificial intelligence. It suggests that, much like domestic appliances transformed household labour, AI will fundamentally reshape professional workflows. The report emphasises that technology rarely eliminates entire roles but rather redistributes tasks, requiring workers to adapt. It highlights the necessity of viewing AI as a tool for augmentation rather than replacement, urging professionals to understand how automation alters industry dynamics and daily responsibilities in the modern workplace.

Employer demand for AI Strategy skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

Every headline redistributes opportunity. Here is who this one rewards — and how to be on the right side of it.

You must view AI as a productivity multiplier, not a job terminator. Just as the washing machine freed up time for other pursuits, AI will automate routine tasks, elevating the value of critical thinking, strategic oversight, and complex problem-solving. Roles requiring high emotional intelligence and nuanced decision-making will grow in demand. You should audit your current workflow to identify repetitive processes suitable for automation. Invest in learning how to direct AI tools effectively. Focus on upskilling in areas where human judgement remains irreplaceable. Those who adapt quickly will lead; those who resist risk obsolescence. Prioritise continuous learning and demonstrate your ability to leverage technology to drive greater business value.

For this story, the fields that convert it into pay are AI Strategy, Artificial Intelligence, Innovation and Business And Management — exactly the programmes matched below. The chart shows the indicative salary uplift certified professionals report in each of those fields; every one of them is a click away, from £79, finishing in as few as 20 days.

Indicative salary uplift in the fields matched to this story
Indicative ranges from published continuing-education salary studies, by field — each field is a recommended course below

Matched to this story

Enrol in these
to benefit.

These programmes position you for exactly this shift — online, self-paced, and finishing with a verifiable certificate you can share the day you pass.