News & Trending Jobs & Career News

Mark Cuban Says These 4 Job Skills Aren't Worth Pursuing at This Point

Are you investing in one of these skills?

By Sarah Sharkey , Edited by Calista Headrick

Updated Oct. 12, 2026

Add Us On Google

Whether you're at the beginning of your career or somewhere in the messy middle, learning the right skills can help you land your next job and get ahead financially. But some skills may be more important than others in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). In fact, Mark Cuban has mentioned several job skills he doesn't think are worth pursuing right now, based on his predictions about the future of work.

This guide explores some of the job skills you may not want to invest in going forward, based on Cuban's comments.

Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt

National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.¹ <p>Please note that all calls with the company may be recorded or monitored for quality assurance and training purposes. Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 45% before fees, or 20% including our fees, over 24 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating. "Debt-Free" applies only to enrolled credit cards, personal loans, and medical bills. Not mortgages, car loans, or other debts. Results vary.</p>

Computer programming

Until recently, getting a college degree in computer programming seemed like a sure path to job stability. But with the advent of AI, computer programming skills may no longer offer job security.

In 2017, he told AOL that, "I'm going to make a prediction. In 10 years, a liberal arts degree in philosophy will be worth more than a traditional programming degree."

Shopping for cheaper auto insurance? Enter your zip code here to get started.

Coding

In a similar vein, Cuban thinks that standard coding skills may not be as useful in the future. Since AI tools can complete coding tasks much faster, high-quality coding skills aren't as in-demand.

Instead of strictly learning how to code, Cuban encourages workers to get creative with AI to beef up their relevant coding output.

Repeatable tasks

If your job skills largely center around repeatable tasks, like data entry, that puts you at risk for replacement by AI. After all, AI has become adaptable enough to handle routine tasks that most businesses need, including data entry.

Don't focus on getting better at routine tasks. Focus on creative thinking and building value.

Accounting

Accountants, particularly CPAs, handle a lot of repeatable tasks. Since AI is getting good at parsing out different types of data and spotting trends, it may soon be able to help handle people's accounting issues as well.

"I would not want to be a CPA right now. I would not want to be an accountant right now," Cuban told CNBC.

How to stay ahead of AI

Technology is quickly replacing the need for workers to handle technical skills. As AI begins to handle these tasks for workers, employers will begin to look for different skills in their workers.

In Cuban's opinion, focusing on skills like critical thinking is important. In the age of AI, critical thinking will become increasingly important. But there's no need to fear AI. Instead, consider it a useful tool to learn to use.

The more you know about managing AI, the more valuable you'll likely be to future employers. If you're looking for job skills to learn, getting comfortable with using AI proficiently could be a great place to start.

Below is a look at a few more skills that might help you get ahead in today's world, according to Cuban.

Agility

The economy seems to be changing at a faster clip than ever before. It might be tempting to try to find solid ground to stand on. But Cuban advises that learning to pivot and adapt in changing situations will be a key skill in the emerging job market.

Curiosity

It's critical to stay curious about the world around you, especially as the changes unfold. Instead of fearing AI, it's helpful to stay curious about how you could use it. If you let curiosity surprise you, you might find solutions you previously thought impossible.

Adaptability

It's no secret that the world is changing. But instead of putting your head in the sand, it's important to adapt to the changing circumstances. For example, you might learn more about how to use AI effectively. Or you might pivot to a completely new field where AI is less of a threat, like plumbing.

Bottom line

Navigating the job market in the world of AI can get complex. But it's important to focus your efforts on building skills that will grow your income, not on things that AI may soon take over.

Along the way, do your best to build multiple income streams to stabilize your finances long-term. Even a relatively small side hustle could give you some room to build real wealth.

Make Money: 8 dumb ways to make money (almost anyone can do this)

More from FinanceBuzz: