After a successful 50 year academic career in physics, electrical engineering, and atmospheric science, and service at the NSF, why should I bother with or care about AI?

I am not one of AI enthusiasts, but I believe that at the next few years we will be working with the AI assistant and after 5 or 10 years the majority of the well paid jobs, even in academic field or private sector will be diminished.
 This is something that should be taken in mind. So, you may not bother after 50 years of career, at this moment, but I believe that AI something that is going to change the world in the next few years and I am afraid that the majority of the people will not be able to express their opposition, or to set limits.
 And just a part of an aswer from AI machine in the question:

why should I bother with or care about AI

"You don’t have to be a tech geek to care about AI. It’s not just about robots — it’s about power, access, and the future of work and society.
 

If any of that touches your life (and it likely does), caring a little about AI now could save you from bigger problems — or open better doors — later"