Abstract

This chapter evaluates the changing relationship between human capital, agency, and the tools used for work. We then discuss the theoretical concept of agency from the human-centric approach from pre-industrial society to Industry 5.0, with a focus on the growing influence of AI. Through the lens of the employee, we examine how human capital, defined as the accumulation of knowledge, skills, experience and competencies, contributes to both individual value and organisational performance. We note the shaping of value in an era where AI-driven skills are increasingly central to workplace value. The discussion examines changes in agency, from human-dominated tool use to posthuman and human-AI collaboration. We consider how this evolution challenges traditional notions of work and expertise. Using a posthuman perspective, we discuss the implications of employee agency and collaboration with AI. We question whether this shift signals a transformation in human identity within professional contexts. As technology begins to take on roles and tasks once considered uniquely human, we reflect on the necessity of maintaining agency in an era of human-AI co-creation and the broader implications for the future of work.