In a recent Qlik survey, trade policy joins AI as a powerful force in shaping the U.S. graduate job market. The findings reveal that both tariffs and artificial intelligence are equally transforming hiring trends and career decisions across industries.

Qlik®, a global leader in data integration, analytics, and AI, reports that 34% of 2024–25 graduates say trade policy influenced their job prospects. This matches the 33% who say AI is affecting their career path. Meanwhile, 48% observe automation in their field, and 66% have shifted career goals since January.

“Tariffs are now a core factor in workforce planning,” said Mike Capone, CEO at Qlik. “They’re reshaping hiring strategies, boosting supply chain innovation, and generating new positions that didn’t exist just months ago.”

Qlik conducted two national surveys one of 1,000 graduates and another of 1,500 business leaders. The responses suggest a major shift in employer expectations and graduate readiness.

Graduates remain confident about their future:

  • 66% changed their career plans in 2025
  • 80% feel more optimistic than in January
  • 48% report automation reshaping roles
  • 24% notice job categories evolving

Companies, in turn, are actively adapting to this new reality:

  • 31% are boosting investments in manufacturing and supply chain systems
  • 57% feel graduates lack essential skills
  • 28% struggle to hire candidates fluent in AI and automation
  • 20% created new job roles in direct response to tariff changes

Some emerging job titles include Tariff Mitigation Strategist, Reshoring Program Manager, AI Lead, and Supply Chain Resilience Analyst. To stay ahead, 50% of companies are investing in automation, 40% in predictive analytics, and 39% say they are still improving internal data systems.

Capone emphasized, “Real-time data insights now play a critical role. Organizations need actionable signals, while graduates benefit from clarity on what skills are in demand. With reliable data, we turn change into opportunity.”

Qlik’s research shows that the modern job market is evolving fast. With the right data analytics, companies and graduates alike can align better and prepare confidently for the workforce of tomorrow.

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News Source: Businesswire.com