Survey: 60% of C-Suite Executives Say AI Will Change Their Staffing Needs for New Grads

NewsData.io · United States · Aug 19, 2026

A Forbes survey of more than 100 C-suite and hiring executives finds that nearly 25% say AI will reduce their need for entry-level college graduates, while 60% say it will change their staffing needs overall. New grad unemployment has risen to 5.6%—above the national average of 4.2%—with Stanford research showing a 16% drop in employment for 22–25-year-olds in AI-vulnerable roles. Demand is shifting toward candidates with demonstrated AI fluency, with Carnegie Mellon reporting a doubling of AI-titled entry-level job placements in 2025. Employers are also showing declining interest in Ivy League grads and growing preference for public university graduates.