Chicago, Illinois — In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, Matt Shumer, co-founder of Shumer Capital, has raised alarms about the disruptive potential of artificial intelligence (AI). In a recent essay that has garnered major attention online, Shumer asserts that the implications of AI could overshadow even the most significant events of the past few years, like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Shumer, addressing a broader audience beyond the tech industry, emphasizes the urgency for individuals to prepare for potential upheavals in various job sectors. He acknowledges that even a modest probability of widespread job losses necessitates proactive measures from society. “If there’s a 20% chance of a significant change, people deserve to be informed and ready,” he stated during an interview.

His essay, titled “Something Big is Coming,” has captivated millions, accruing over 60 million views on social media platforms. In his extensive analysis, Shumer draws parallels between AI’s impending changes to people’s lives and the societal shifts that occurred during the pandemic, a comparison that has sparked debate among critics.

The tech community is not alone in expressing concerns about AI’s impact on employment. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, recently stated that as many as half of all entry-level white-collar jobs could be at risk within the next several years. Prominent figures, including Elon Musk, have also voiced apprehensions, labeling AI’s potential job displacement as a “supersonic tsunami.”

At just 26 years old, Shumer finds himself navigating uncharted territory in his early career. He co-founded OthersideAI, which evolved into the AI-assisted writing tool, HyperWrite. Despite his involvement in AI development, Shumer admits to feeling uncertain about his own career longevity in light of these advancements. “It’s a bit confusing and daunting for someone still at the beginning of their journey,” he shared.

Shumer emphasizes that the effects of AI will vary across different industries, making it crucial for individuals to understand their specific risks. While professionals in healthcare may see less immediate threat, entry-level positions in law and similar fields could face rapid changes as AI technologies develop.

Reflecting on last week’s release of OpenAI’s GPT-5.3-Codex, he remarked that the capabilities of AI have evolved to such an extent that it can now perform tasks once considered uniquely human, including technical work. Shumer disclosed that his essay was partly shaped by his interactions with AI tools, showcasing the very technology he discusses.

In light of these developments, Shumer urges those who may have had initial hesitations about using AI to reconsider their stance. He believes that the current generation of AI tools offers broader capabilities, which could significantly enhance productivity and creativity. “Looking back a decade from now, people will regret not taking advantage of these advancements,” Shumer asserted.

As the conversation around AI continues to unfold, Shumer and other industry leaders are advocating for awareness and preparation to mitigate the disruptions poised to affect many people’s lives and careers.