AI is Coming for Jobs. But What If It Could Create Them Instead?

Silicon Valley is racing to build AI agents that can replace human labor. Customer service reps, sales associates, executive assistants, IT admins, junior developers, even journalists — all are in the crosshairs of AI disruption. Startups like Boardye are already automating tasks as niche as VC introductions. But while the tech world celebrates efficiency, millions of workers are left wondering: What happens to us?

Enter Mike Ghaffary, a venture capitalist with a mission. He’s not just looking for the next unicorn — he’s hunting for startups that use AI to create jobs, not destroy them. And he’s betting big on the idea that AI can be a force for good in the workforce.

“As we’re seeing this job displacement, we’re actually doing something about it. I feel like there’s a lot of ‘Don’t worry. Don’t look here. AI will destroy a lot of jobs, but it will create jobs, too!’ As tech companies, we need to go create those new jobs we’re promising.”

Mike Ghaffary

From Canvas to Burst: A VC on a Mission

Ghaffary, a seasoned investor with a track record that includes Superhuman, Strava, and CloudKitchens, recently made waves by leaving Canvas Ventures to join Burst Capital. Founded by former Yelp execs, Burst is led by Geoff Donaker, who Ghaffary worked with during his Yelp days. Together, they’re on a mission to back startups that don’t just create jobs — but good-paying, middle-class jobs for people without advanced degrees in AI or machine learning.

The AI Job Gap: Who’s Filling It?

Ghaffary points to companies like Owner.com, which helps mom-and-pop restaurants with marketing, and GlossGenius, which simplifies booking and payments for hairdressers. In his own portfolio, ResQ connects restaurants with repair tradesmen, creating opportunities in the hospitality sector. But Ghaffary sees a glaring gap: AI-driven vocational training.

“I’ll tell you one company I’m looking for, too, that I haven’t found: vocational training,” he says. He envisions startups using AI to train people for high-paying trades like industrial electricians or commercial plumbers. Think of it as a flight simulator for blue-collar jobs, offering affordable, AI-enhanced training to millions at risk of being left behind.

Why This Matters: A Call to Action

Ghaffary isn’t just chasing returns — he’s chasing impact. “I think there’s a big opportunity,” he says. “And it’s for the sake of our country and our world. Otherwise, we have this big underemployed society, and it’s not good for anybody.”

So, founders, here’s your challenge: Build the AI startup that doesn’t just disrupt industries but empowers workers. Because the future of work isn’t just about automation — it’s about opportunity.