Half of Generation Z interns expect 20% of their jobs to be automated by AI when they start full-time roles, but 92% are confident in their ability to adapt to AI advancements in their fields, according to a new survey from KPMG LLP, the U.S. audit, tax and advisory firm.
“While headlines focus on fears of workers being replaced by AI, Gen Z talent joining the workforce in the coming years is challenging a deeper assumption that employers can deprioritize workforce well-being and long-term growth in their rush to maximize new technology benefits without facing consequences,” said Derek Thomas, National Partner-in-Charge, University Talent Acquisition at KPMG U.S.
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“Instead, this talent is embracing AI as a tool and seeking stability, meaningful relationships and sustained career development from their employers. Organizations that recognize and support these values will be best positioned to attract and retain top talent from this next generation.”
In July 2025, KPMG surveyed 1,117 of its U.S. interns across the firm’s Tax, Audit, Advisory and Business Process Group (BPG) functions to better understand their perspectives on career development, AI adoption, workplace culture, learning preferences and long-term career goals.
Gen Z are more experimental with AI than older generations and many use generative AI frequently in their day-to-day.
“Gen Z is making AI work for them,” Thomas said. “While other generations are still debating whether to use it, Gen Z is exploring new and creative ways to utilize AI for increased efficiency in their daily lives and enhance their performance at work.”
- 60% believe they are more experimental with AI tools compared to older generations, willing to try AI for everything from school to personal projects.
- 89% use generative AI frequently (at least once or twice per week) in their day-to-day right now (both personally and professionally).
- 57% believe technical skills specific to their roles are the most valuable skill development opportunity for their careers.
- Top concern about AI usage is over-reliance (not wanting to become too dependent on AI for thinking or creating), followed by misinformation/bias concerns.
- Only 8% say their university is very supportive in allowing and encouraging AI tool use (least chosen response) while 52% report their universities take a balanced approach to AI, allowing use of GenAI research tools while implementing guidelines to ensure it complements rather than replaces critical thinking and creativity.
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