Will AI Replace Actuaries? Not So Fast.

Aug 22, 2025, 08:13 by
Microsoft’s viral list of “Top 40 Jobs Most Likely to Be Replaced by AI” included mathematicians, data scientists, and statistical assistants—but not actuaries. Why? Because while AI can enhance actuarial work, it can’t replace the human judgment, creativity, and client-specific problem solving that make actuaries essential.

By now, you’ve probably seen Microsoft’s viral list of the “Top 40 Jobs Most Likely to Be Replaced by AI.”

It includes roles like:

  • #17 Mathematician
  • #27 Statistical Assistant
  • #29 Data Scientist

Notice what’s missing? Actuary.

Recently, a couple of college students asked me about the actuarial profession. Is it worth pursuing? What’s the day-to-day like? And what’s the long-term outlook—especially with AI on the rise?

My answer was simple: Yes, it’s a fantastic career—and AI isn’t going to replace actuaries. In fact, it’s going to enhance us.

Here’s why.

Every Client is Unique

As consultants, no two situations are ever the same. Every client brings a new set of challenges, goals, and constraints. AI can crunch numbers at superhuman speed, but it can’t fully replace the judgment, creativity, and problem-solving that comes from understanding people, businesses, and context.

That human element—our ability to listen, interpret, advise, and build trust—is what makes actuaries irreplaceable.

Tools Have Always Evolved

Remember slide rules? Or the first calculators? Or even when spreadsheets revolutionized analysis? Each time, the tools got smarter, but actuaries didn’t disappear. Instead, we leveled up—focusing less on rote calculations and more on strategy, communication, and higher-value insights.

AI is simply the next step in that evolution. It will help us work faster and smarter, freeing us to focus on the strategic thinking and decision-making that businesses need most.

Embracing the Future

So when people ask, “Will AI replace actuaries?” my answer is clear: No. If anything, it makes our profession even more important. AI will sharpen our tools, not replace our expertise.


Bring it on. The future looks bright for actuaries.