AI - It’s Here, Mums and Dads — And I’m Ready for It… Are you?

AI is no longer “the future” of career planning — it’s here. Students can now explore hundreds of career ideas, discover industries they’ve never heard of, and even practise job interviews… all from their laptop.

As a career coach, I’m genuinely excited about what this means for our teenagers. But I also know that, used poorly, AI can mislead, confuse, or narrow their options.

Why I’m Excited

• Wider horizons – AI can open up career options, students, didn’t even know existed.

• Speed – In minutes, a student can go from “I like science” to finding potential courses and pathways.

• Personalised practice – Mock interviews, resume feedback, and skill-building on demand.

• Global view – See how a career plays out both in Australia and overseas.

  
  

But… Here’s What to Watch

• Inaccuracy – Always double-check prerequisites and job details from official sources.

• Bias – AI can repeat outdated ideas about who “fits” in certain careers.

• Generic answers – Without good questions, the results can be bland and irrelevant.

• Overreliance – AI can’t replace self-awareness, values, and real-world insight.

  
  

The Sweet Spot

AI is a fantastic starting point — but the real magic happens when it’s combined with human guidance.

When students match AI insights with their personality, strengths, and life goals, they make career choices that are informed, personal, and future-ready.

Final word for parents: Encourage your teenager to explore widely, verify carefully, and make decisions that fit them, not just the job market.