AI Across Mississippi Careers
See how AI is changing tasks, tools, and skills in careers across Mississippi. Start with a career you recognize, then see where AI assists, changes, or enables the work.
You do not need to become an AI engineer to work with AI.
A nurse remains a nurse. A welder remains a welder. A teacher remains a teacher. AI may change selected tools, decisions, and tasks inside that work. This resource explains what is established, what is emerging, what remains uncertain, and what skills help a worker prepare.
Looking for an AI-specific college credential? Use AI Degrees & Pathways to compare Mississippi courses, certificates, and degree programs.
- Used todayEvidence supports use in at least some workplaces, not universal adoption.
- EmergingThe use is moving from pilots or early adoption toward practice.
- PotentialThe application is plausible, but MAIN should not present it as current reality.
24 representative careers shown
Healthcare & Life Sciences
A large Mississippi workforce sector where regulated AI tools are already present and human accountability is essential.
AI-use evidence: FDA AI-Enabled Medical Devices; American Nurses Association: Ethical Use of AI in Nursing Practice
SOC 29-1141Registered NurseAssesses patients, coordinates care, administers treatments, and communicates with patients and clinical teams.
$78,950 mean wage29,060 employed
What this career does
Assesses patients, coordinates care, administers treatments, and communicates with patients and clinical teams.
Typical preparation
Associate or bachelor’s nursing pathway plus state licensure; requirements vary by role and employer.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationReview AI-supported monitoring or risk alerts alongside the full patient record; use varies by health system.Evidence: American Nurses Association: Ethical Use of AI in Nursing Practice; FDA AI-Enabled Medical Devices
Emerging
- Partial automationDraft routine clinical documentation or patient instructions for nurse verification.Evidence: American Nurses Association: Ethical Use of AI in Nursing Practice
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workCoordinate care using predictions that combine clinical, staffing, and social-risk data, subject to governance and validation.Evidence: American Nurses Association: Ethical Use of AI in Nursing Practice
Human skills that remain critical
- clinical judgment
- patient communication
- hands-on assessment
- ethical accountability
AI skills to develop
- recognize alert limitations
- verify generated documentation
- protect health data
- explain AI-assisted decisions
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 29-2034Radiologic Technologist or TechnicianPositions patients and operates imaging equipment to produce diagnostic images safely and accurately.
$59,090 mean wage2,510 employed
What this career does
Positions patients and operates imaging equipment to produce diagnostic images safely and accurately.
Typical preparation
Associate’s degree is the typical entry pathway; licensing or certification may apply.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationUse approved imaging software that can flag findings, prioritize studies, or support image quality workflows; capabilities vary by device and facility.Evidence: FDA AI-Enabled Medical Devices
Emerging
- Partial automationApply AI-assisted positioning, protocol selection, or dose-optimization recommendations under clinical protocols.Evidence: FDA AI-Enabled Medical Devices
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workCombine imaging and operational data to anticipate repeat scans or workflow bottlenecks.Evidence: FDA AI-Enabled Medical Devices
Human skills that remain critical
- patient positioning
- radiation safety
- patient reassurance
- protocol compliance
AI skills to develop
- understand device indications
- recognize false alerts
- document overrides
- escalate uncertain outputs
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 29-2010Clinical Laboratory Technologist or TechnicianTests blood, tissue, and other specimens and evaluates results used in diagnosis and treatment.
$54,580 mean wage3,070 employed
What this career does
Tests blood, tissue, and other specimens and evaluates results used in diagnosis and treatment.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is typical for technologists; some technician roles begin with an associate’s degree.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationReview instrument-generated classifications or image analyses in laboratory workflows where validated systems are deployed.Evidence: FDA AI-Enabled Medical Devices
Emerging
- Partial automationPrioritize specimens or quality-control exceptions for human review.Evidence: FDA AI-Enabled Medical Devices
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workCombine multi-source laboratory data to surface patterns for specialist interpretation.Evidence: FDA AI-Enabled Medical Devices
Human skills that remain critical
- specimen integrity
- quality control
- technical interpretation
- clinical escalation
AI skills to develop
- validate outputs against controls
- understand data provenance
- investigate anomalies
- maintain audit trails
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
Advanced Manufacturing & Shipbuilding
Manufacturing combines targeted skilled trades with high-growth engineering and maintenance roles important to Mississippi production and shipbuilding.
AI-use evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
SOC 49-9041Industrial Machinery MechanicMaintains, troubleshoots, and repairs production machinery and mechanical systems.
$61,510 mean wage4,460 employed
What this career does
Maintains, troubleshoots, and repairs production machinery and mechanical systems.
Typical preparation
High school diploma or equivalent plus substantial on-the-job training is typical.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationUse condition-monitoring or predictive-maintenance alerts to prioritize inspection and diagnosis where plants have deployed them.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Emerging
- AI-enabled workAsk an approved assistant to retrieve manuals, compare fault histories, or draft a repair checklist.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Potential or future application
- Partial automationAutomatically adjust maintenance schedules from equipment condition and production constraints.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Human skills that remain critical
- hands-on diagnosis
- lockout/tagout safety
- mechanical judgment
- repair verification
AI skills to develop
- interpret sensor trends
- question false alarms
- record corrective actions
- keep proprietary data in approved tools
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 51-4121Welder, Cutter, Solderer, or BrazerJoins and repairs metal components using heat, pressure, and specialized equipment.
$52,930 mean wage6,460 employed
What this career does
Joins and repairs metal components using heat, pressure, and specialized equipment.
Typical preparation
High school diploma or equivalent with technical and on-the-job training is typical.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationInspect weld images or process data with machine-vision quality tools where deployed.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Emerging
- AI-enabled workTune robotic or collaborative welding parameters and review flagged defects.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Potential or future application
- Partial automationAutomate repeatable weld paths while skilled welders handle fit-up, exceptions, and certification-critical work.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Human skills that remain critical
- manual dexterity
- joint preparation
- safety discipline
- visual inspection
AI skills to develop
- interpret vision-system flags
- understand robot limits
- verify weld quality
- document parameter changes
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 17-2112Industrial EngineerDesigns and improves integrated systems involving people, materials, information, equipment, and energy.
$96,270 mean wage2,450 employed
What this career does
Designs and improves integrated systems involving people, materials, information, equipment, and energy.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is the typical entry pathway.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationAnalyze production, quality, or maintenance data to identify patterns and constraints.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Emerging
- AI-enabled workUse simulations or digital representations to compare process changes before deployment.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Potential or future application
- Partial automationGenerate and score production schedules while engineers set constraints and approve tradeoffs.Evidence: NIST MEP: The Rise of AI in U.S. Manufacturing
Human skills that remain critical
- systems thinking
- change management
- statistical reasoning
- worker-centered design
AI skills to develop
- frame optimization problems
- validate training data
- test recommendations
- monitor unintended effects
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
Agriculture & Food Systems
Agriculture matters statewide, while current Mississippi occupational samples are small enough to require explicit data caveats.
AI-use evidence: USDA FY 2025–2026 AI Strategy; USDA NIFA: Artificial Intelligence
SOC 17-2021Agricultural EngineerApplies engineering to agricultural production, processing, structures, machinery, and environmental systems.
$98,930 mean wage40 employed
What this career does
Applies engineering to agricultural production, processing, structures, machinery, and environmental systems.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is the typical entry pathway.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- No occupation-specific current-use claim is made in this prototype.The available evidence supports an emerging or potential use, not a defensible statement that this is established practice.
Emerging
- AI-enabled workCombine remote-sensing, equipment, weather, and field data to evaluate designs or management options.Evidence: USDA FY 2025–2026 AI Strategy; USDA NIFA: Artificial Intelligence
Potential or future application
- AugmentationUse models to compare water, energy, yield, or environmental tradeoffs before field deployment.Evidence: USDA FY 2025–2026 AI Strategy
Human skills that remain critical
- engineering judgment
- field validation
- safety
- environmental tradeoff analysis
AI skills to develop
- evaluate model assumptions
- integrate sensor data
- validate recommendations in context
- communicate uncertainty
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 19-1013Soil and Plant ScientistStudies crop, soil, and plant systems to improve production and environmental outcomes.
$82,750 mean wage100 employed
What this career does
Studies crop, soil, and plant systems to improve production and environmental outcomes.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is the typical entry pathway; research roles may require graduate study.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- No occupation-specific current-use claim is made in this prototype.The available evidence supports an emerging or potential use, not a defensible statement that this is established practice.
Emerging
- AugmentationClassify field imagery and combine remote-sensing observations with soil or crop measurements.Evidence: USDA NIFA: Artificial Intelligence
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workModel site-specific interventions while scientists validate biological plausibility and local conditions.Evidence: USDA FY 2025–2026 AI Strategy; USDA NIFA: Artificial Intelligence
Human skills that remain critical
- experimental design
- field observation
- biological interpretation
- research integrity
AI skills to develop
- label data consistently
- check sampling bias
- interpret model uncertainty
- reproduce analyses
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 19-4012Agricultural TechnicianCollects and tests agricultural samples, maintains instruments, and supports production or research.
$51,380 mean wage190 employed
What this career does
Collects and tests agricultural samples, maintains instruments, and supports production or research.
Typical preparation
Associate’s degree is a common entry pathway; requirements vary by setting.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- No occupation-specific current-use claim is made in this prototype.The available evidence supports an emerging or potential use, not a defensible statement that this is established practice.
Emerging
- AugmentationUse image or sensor analytics to prioritize samples and field checks.Evidence: USDA NIFA: Artificial Intelligence
Potential or future application
- Partial automationAutomate routine classification while technicians verify anomalies, calibrate instruments, and maintain records.Evidence: USDA NIFA: Artificial Intelligence
Human skills that remain critical
- sampling discipline
- instrument calibration
- field troubleshooting
- record quality
AI skills to develop
- detect sensor drift
- verify classifications
- maintain data lineage
- escalate anomalies
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
Construction, Energy & Infrastructure
Mississippi priority trades and infrastructure roles can benefit from better planning and asset information without reducing safety-critical judgment.
AI-use evidence: U.S. Department of Energy: AI for Energy; NIST Building Digitization and Semantic Interoperability
SOC 11-9021Construction ManagerPlans, coordinates, budgets, and supervises construction projects from start to finish.
$108,110 mean wage1,640 employed
What this career does
Plans, coordinates, budgets, and supervises construction projects from start to finish.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is typical, usually combined with construction experience.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- No occupation-specific current-use claim is made in this prototype.The available evidence supports an emerging or potential use, not a defensible statement that this is established practice.
Emerging
- AugmentationCompare plans, schedules, site records, or asset data to surface conflicts and risks for manager review.Evidence: NIST Building Digitization and Semantic Interoperability
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workMaintain digital representations that connect design, progress, and operations data across the asset lifecycle.Evidence: NIST Building Digitization and Semantic Interoperability
Human skills that remain critical
- site leadership
- contract judgment
- safety accountability
- stakeholder coordination
AI skills to develop
- verify source documents
- review schedule assumptions
- protect project data
- document decisions
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 47-2111ElectricianInstalls, maintains, and repairs electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems.
$58,000 mean wage6,610 employed
What this career does
Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical power, communications, lighting, and control systems.
Typical preparation
High school diploma or equivalent followed by apprenticeship is typical; licensing applies.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- No occupation-specific current-use claim is made in this prototype.The available evidence supports an emerging or potential use, not a defensible statement that this is established practice.
Emerging
- AugmentationUse approved assistants to retrieve code or manual information and interpret sensor histories before hands-on diagnosis.Evidence: U.S. Department of Energy: AI for Energy; NIST Building Digitization and Semantic Interoperability
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workReceive prioritized inspection recommendations from connected building or grid systems while retaining electrical safety procedures.Evidence: U.S. Department of Energy: AI for Energy
Human skills that remain critical
- code compliance
- hands-on troubleshooting
- hazard recognition
- craft precision
AI skills to develop
- verify generated instructions
- interpret sensor context
- use approved tools
- never bypass safety procedures
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 49-9051Electrical Power-Line Installer or RepairerInstalls and repairs electrical power distribution and transmission systems.
$71,580 mean wage2,290 employed
What this career does
Installs and repairs electrical power distribution and transmission systems.
Typical preparation
High school diploma or equivalent with long-term on-the-job training is typical.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- No occupation-specific current-use claim is made in this prototype.The available evidence supports an emerging or potential use, not a defensible statement that this is established practice.
Emerging
- AugmentationUse grid analytics and inspection imagery to prioritize patrols, vegetation checks, or equipment assessment.Evidence: U.S. Department of Energy: AI for Energy
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workCombine outage, weather, and asset-condition data to support restoration planning under utility command structures.Evidence: U.S. Department of Energy: AI for Energy
Human skills that remain critical
- high-voltage safety
- field repair
- crew coordination
- storm response judgment
AI skills to develop
- interpret risk scores
- validate field conditions
- report model misses
- maintain reliable communications
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
Transportation & Logistics
Mississippi freight, ports, warehousing, and trucking make planning and operations roles highly relevant, while automation claims require careful labeling.
AI-use evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026; GAO-24-106498: Automation at U.S. Ports
SOC 13-1081LogisticianAnalyzes and coordinates an organization’s supply chain from acquisition through delivery.
$76,470 mean wage1,560 employed
What this career does
Analyzes and coordinates an organization’s supply chain from acquisition through delivery.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is the typical entry pathway.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationUse demand, inventory, route, or exception analytics in organizations that have deployed AI-enabled planning systems.Evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026
Emerging
- Partial automationGenerate schedule or replenishment options while the logistician sets constraints and manages exceptions.Evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workCoordinate across carriers and facilities using shared predictive views, subject to data quality and commercial controls.Evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026
Human skills that remain critical
- tradeoff judgment
- supplier coordination
- exception management
- systems thinking
AI skills to develop
- validate demand signals
- set operational constraints
- stress-test recommendations
- monitor service impacts
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 11-3071Transportation, Storage, or Distribution ManagerPlans and directs transportation, storage, or distribution operations and compliance.
$96,480 mean wage2,410 employed
What this career does
Plans and directs transportation, storage, or distribution operations and compliance.
Typical preparation
High school diploma or equivalent plus related experience is typical; some employers prefer a degree.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationReview system recommendations for routing, staffing, inventory placement, or congestion response where deployed.Evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026
Emerging
- AI-enabled workCombine equipment, gate, weather, and shipment data to focus management attention on exceptions.Evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026; GAO-24-106498: Automation at U.S. Ports
Potential or future application
- Partial automationAutomate routine dispatch adjustments within manager-set safety, labor, and customer constraints.Evidence: GAO-24-106498: Automation at U.S. Ports
Human skills that remain critical
- operational leadership
- regulatory compliance
- labor coordination
- incident response
AI skills to develop
- set escalation rules
- audit decisions
- recognize data gaps
- balance efficiency with safety
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 53-3032Heavy and Tractor-Trailer Truck DriverTransports goods over intercity routes and completes inspections, records, and secure delivery.
$55,910 mean wage24,160 employed
What this career does
Transports goods over intercity routes and completes inspections, records, and secure delivery.
Typical preparation
Postsecondary nondegree truck-driving training and a commercial driver’s license are typical.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationUse routing, safety, or maintenance alerts in fleets that have adopted AI-enabled systems.Evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026
Emerging
- Partial automationReceive automated assistance with lane-keeping, braking, or dispatch tasks while remaining responsible for vehicle operation under applicable rules.Evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workShift some long-haul workflows toward supervised automation; deployment timing, operating domains, and job effects remain uncertain.Evidence: U.S. DOT National Freight Strategic Plan, 2026
Human skills that remain critical
- defensive driving
- inspection
- load security
- real-time hazard judgment
AI skills to develop
- understand driver-assist limits
- respond to handoff alerts
- report system faults
- protect electronic records
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
Business & Finance
These roles exist across every sector and provide clear examples of AI changing information work without removing professional responsibility.
AI-use evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
SOC 13-2011Accountant or AuditorPrepares and examines financial records, tests controls, and explains financial information.
$77,680 mean wage7,350 employed
What this career does
Prepares and examines financial records, tests controls, and explains financial information.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is the typical entry pathway; certification may improve prospects.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationSummarize documents, identify unusual transactions, or support research in approved accounting workflows; adoption is uneven.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Emerging
- Partial automationDraft reconciliations, workpapers, or narrative explanations for professional review.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workContinuously monitor selected controls while accountants investigate exceptions and own conclusions.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Human skills that remain critical
- professional skepticism
- standards knowledge
- client communication
- accountability
AI skills to develop
- verify citations and calculations
- protect confidential data
- document prompts and review
- test for bias or missing context
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 43-3031Bookkeeping, Accounting, or Auditing ClerkRecords financial transactions, reconciles accounts, and checks records for accuracy.
$44,480 mean wage12,160 employed
What this career does
Records financial transactions, reconciles accounts, and checks records for accuracy.
Typical preparation
Some college coursework is typical; requirements vary by employer.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- Partial automationClassify transactions, extract invoice fields, or match records in systems that include AI capabilities.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Emerging
- AugmentationPrioritize exceptions and draft follow-up notes for clerk review.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Potential or future application
- AI-enabled workMove more time from data entry toward exception resolution, controls, and customer or vendor coordination.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Human skills that remain critical
- accuracy
- reconciliation judgment
- confidentiality
- follow-through
AI skills to develop
- verify extracted fields
- resolve exceptions
- maintain audit trails
- recognize duplicate or anomalous entries
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 13-1082Project Management SpecialistCoordinates schedules, budgets, resources, risks, and stakeholder communication for projects.
$89,910 mean wage4,320 employed
What this career does
Coordinates schedules, budgets, resources, risks, and stakeholder communication for projects.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is the typical entry pathway; experience and credentials vary by field.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationSummarize meetings, organize action items, or draft status updates in approved tools.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Emerging
- AI-enabled workSurface schedule, budget, or dependency risks from project records for specialist review.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Potential or future application
- Partial automationGenerate scenario plans while people negotiate priorities and authorize changes.Evidence: AICPA & CIMA: AI in Accounting and Finance
Human skills that remain critical
- stakeholder alignment
- negotiation
- contextual judgment
- change leadership
AI skills to develop
- structure reliable project data
- verify summaries
- test scenarios
- separate suggestions from commitments
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
Education & Career Support
Education is central to MAIN’s mission, and AI guidance must preserve educator judgment, privacy, and equitable access.
AI-use evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
SOC 25-2021Elementary School TeacherPlans instruction, teaches foundational subjects, assesses learning, and supports student development.
$52,300 mean wage11,060 employed
What this career does
Plans instruction, teaches foundational subjects, assesses learning, and supports student development.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree and state certification or licensure are typical for public schools.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationDraft differentiated materials, examples, or family communications in districts that permit approved AI tools.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Emerging
- AI-enabled workUse tutor or feedback systems under educator supervision and local privacy rules.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Potential or future application
- Partial automationAutomate selected administrative tasks while teachers retain instructional and student-support decisions.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Human skills that remain critical
- pedagogy
- classroom relationships
- developmental judgment
- family communication
AI skills to develop
- check age appropriateness
- protect student data
- verify accuracy and bias
- teach responsible use
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 25-2031Secondary School TeacherTeaches subject-area content, assesses learning, and prepares students for further education or work.
$53,690 mean wage10,400 employed
What this career does
Teaches subject-area content, assesses learning, and prepares students for further education or work.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree and state certification or licensure are typical for public schools.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationDraft lesson variants, examples, rubrics, or practice activities when local policy allows.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Emerging
- AI-enabled workGuide students in evaluating AI-generated information and using tools responsibly within a discipline.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Potential or future application
- Partial automationProvide preliminary feedback on selected assignments while teachers make grading and learning decisions.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Human skills that remain critical
- subject expertise
- student motivation
- assessment judgment
- classroom leadership
AI skills to develop
- design AI-resilient assessment
- verify generated content
- teach source evaluation
- apply district policy
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 21-1012Educational, Guidance, or Career Counselor and AdvisorHelps students and clients understand education, career, and personal-development options.
$57,380 mean wage2,620 employed
What this career does
Helps students and clients understand education, career, and personal-development options.
Typical preparation
Master’s degree is typical for school counselors; licensing requirements vary by role.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationUse approved tools to organize occupational information or draft resource summaries for counselor review.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Emerging
- AI-enabled workHelp clients compare pathways using personalized but explainable recommendations.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Potential or future application
- Partial automationAutomate routine information retrieval while counselors focus on motivation, barriers, and high-stakes choices.Evidence: U.S. Department of Education AI Guidance, 2025
Human skills that remain critical
- active listening
- trust
- contextual guidance
- crisis and referral judgment
AI skills to develop
- verify pathway data
- explain recommendation limits
- protect student records
- detect narrowing or bias
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
Information Technology & Cybersecurity
These are both AI-adjacent occupations and enabling functions for every other sector; the distinction between using AI and building AI should remain explicit.
AI-use evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
SOC 15-1212Information Security AnalystMonitors systems, investigates threats, and designs controls to protect information and operations.
$92,790 mean wage480 employed
What this career does
Monitors systems, investigates threats, and designs controls to protect information and operations.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is typical; relevant experience and certifications often matter.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationPrioritize alerts, analyze behavior, or summarize threat information in security tools that include AI capabilities.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Emerging
- AI-enabled workEvaluate AI-specific threats and secure AI system components using evolving risk guidance.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Potential or future application
- Partial automationAutomate low-risk response steps within analyst-approved playbooks and escalation controls.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Human skills that remain critical
- adversarial thinking
- incident judgment
- communication
- risk accountability
AI skills to develop
- test false positives
- detect prompt and model attacks
- secure AI data flows
- document human approval
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 15-1211Computer Systems AnalystStudies business and technical needs and designs improvements to information systems.
$99,250 mean wage1,990 employed
What this career does
Studies business and technical needs and designs improvements to information systems.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is the typical entry pathway; domain knowledge can be important.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationDraft requirements, summarize system records, or accelerate analysis using approved assistants.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Emerging
- AI-enabled workDesign workflows that combine models, people, data, controls, and exception handling.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Potential or future application
- Partial automationGenerate candidate configurations or test cases while analysts validate business fit, security, and integration.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Human skills that remain critical
- requirements discovery
- process design
- stakeholder translation
- systems judgment
AI skills to develop
- select appropriate use cases
- map data and controls
- evaluate failure modes
- measure outcomes
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
SOC 15-1252Software DeveloperDesigns, builds, tests, and maintains software applications and systems.
$99,840 mean wage1,880 employed
What this career does
Designs, builds, tests, and maintains software applications and systems.
Typical preparation
Bachelor’s degree is the typical entry pathway.
Where AI fits
These examples describe tasks and tools. They do not predict that AI will replace the occupation.
Used today in some workplaces
- AugmentationGenerate or explain code, tests, and documentation with developer review in approved environments.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Emerging
- AI-enabled workBuild applications that orchestrate models, retrieval, safeguards, monitoring, and human review.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Potential or future application
- Partial automationAutomate larger implementation slices while developers retain architecture, verification, security, and product responsibility.Evidence: NIST IR 8596 Preliminary Draft: Cyber AI Profile
Human skills that remain critical
- architecture
- debugging
- product reasoning
- security responsibility
AI skills to develop
- review generated code
- test model behavior
- protect secrets and source
- monitor reliability and abuse
Mississippi employment, wage, and outlook
Sources: MDES May 2025 wage estimates and MDES 2024–2034 projections. Employment estimates and projection base counts come from different programs and should not be compared as a time series. Wages are estimates, not starting salary promises.
What MAIN should own, and what it should link to
MAIN should own the evidence review, AI-task interpretation, durable human and AI skills, and connections to its learning resources. Official sources should remain the authority for occupation definitions, wages, projections, licensing, and training availability.
- Mississippi employment and wages
- Mississippi occupational projections
- O*NET tasks and skills
- Mississippi education and training locations
- MAIN no-cost AI learning
Prototype reviewed: 2026-08-18. Agricultural Engineer has no detailed Mississippi projection in the current MDES table. Empty “Used today” sections are intentional where the evidence did not support an occupation-specific adoption claim.
Prepare for the career you care about.
Build AI literacy, keep strengthening the human and technical skills the occupation requires, and use authoritative sources to choose education or training.