Shaw Walters, the founder of Eliza Labs and a prominent figure in the AI and blockchain sectors, recently made a provocative statement at the AI Summit during Consensus 2025: “We’re going to automate all of the jobs.” This assertion underscores his vision of a future where autonomous AI agents and humanoid robots significantly transform the workforce landscape.

Understanding Walters' Vision

Walters envisions a paradigm shift in how work is conducted, moving away from manual tasks towards a model where AI agents handle various responsibilities. He expressed a personal desire to delegate coding tasks to AI, allowing him to focus on higher-level strategic thinking. Utilizing tools like Gemini in Cursor, he can instruct AI agents to modify code based on verbal commands, streamlining the development process.

This approach is embodied in ElizaOS, an open-source platform designed to facilitate the creation of autonomous AI agents. ElizaOS integrates AI with blockchain technology, aiming to decentralize decision-making processes in finance and other sectors.

Implications for the Workforce

The prospect of automating all jobs raises concerns about employment and economic stability. While automation can lead to increased productivity and the creation of new job categories, it also poses the risk of displacing workers, particularly in roles susceptible to automation. Historically, technological advancements have both eliminated and generated jobs, but the transition can be challenging for affected workers.

Moreover, the integration of AI into various industries has already begun to impact employment. For instance, a survey indicated that 38% of business leaders anticipated layoffs in 2024, with 39% attributing potential layoffs to the replacement of workers with AI.

The Role of Decentralization

Walters advocates for a decentralized approach to AI development, promoting openness and community ownership. This philosophy contrasts with the proprietary models of major tech corporations, aiming to democratize access to AI technology and empower individuals to participate in its evolution.