**The big picture:** Economists reveal that remote work, not artificial intelligence, is the primary force reshaping the entry-level job market. The perceived AI effect on these roles largely disappears when remote work is factored into analyses. **Why it matters:** This insight is crucial for staffing firms and talent acquisition leaders to accurately forecast labor trends and develop effective recruitment strategies for emerging talent pools. **Between the lines:** - AI's perceived impact on entry-level jobs diminishes when remote work is controlled for. - Digital tasks in software, legal, and finance are highly vulnerable to both outsourcing and AI. **Staffing & HR impact:** Staffing agencies must prioritize remote-first strategies for entry-level placements, adapting recruiter training and talent sourcing to a geographically dispersed workforce. HR leaders should focus on policies supporting remote work infrastructure and performance management for new hires. **The bottom line:** Remote work remains the true disruptor for entry-level talent, demanding strategic adaptation over AI-centric panic.