Artificial intelligence is transforming the global labor market at an ever-increasing rate. From automation software that helps with administrative tasks to machine learning tools that can replace some analytical jobs, AI is transforming the way people do their work.
White-collar jobs continue facing threats of automation. However, the trade sector is quickly gaining a reputation as a good option for those fearing that their current jobs could be rendered redundant by software and algorithms sooner rather than later.
As AI progresses and spreads its tentacles into the workforce, trade jobs are becoming ever more attractive. Here are five reasons why a trade job can future-proof your career.
1. Trades Are Resistant to Automation
Something to know about trade careers in this AI era is the fact that they can’t be automated. Although AI is great at tasks that involve identifying patterns and doing data-oriented things, it’s poor at tasks that involve manual labor and problem-solving on the spot.
Tasks performed by electricians, plumbers, welders, HVAC experts, carpenters, and other trade experts involve unpredictable conditions that can’t be easily predicted.
Each construction job offers variables ranging from age and quality of materials to code compliance and unexpected problems. Such conditions call for a real-world expertise that AI and robots, even now, lack. So, while AI might eventually catch up to skilled tradespeople, that time is not now. Going into the trades means a lower risk of job displacement compared to a large number of white-collar occupations.
2. The Demand for Skilled Labor Remains High
Although some sectors are experiencing contraction due to automation, trade skills remain in high demand. Commercial construction and infrastructure projects are among the things that create high demand for trade employees. Conversely, older trade workers are retiring, and fresh blood isn’t entering the trades in big enough numbers to keep up with the departures.
The supply-demand dynamic, therefore, means that there is high demand in the trades. Considering that AI can’t step in to fill that demand, you can enjoy job security without worrying about humanoid robots displacing you anytime soon. You can make yourself even more valuable in the trade market by picking up online trade certifications.
3. Trades Provide Clear Skill-Based Career Paths
In many cases of AI disruption, traditional career paths can become less predictable. Career roles can shift rapidly, job roles can transform overnight, and workers can find themselves forced to continuously retrain simply to remain relevant in the workforce. Trade careers typically involve predesigned career paths based on skills and experience acquired.
Apprenticeships, meanwhile, serve as a stepping stone for becoming a journeyman and advancing from there. This clear process may be attractive for an employee who likes to have a say in their personal development, especially in a constantly shifting labor market.
4. Trades Offer Tangible and Real-World Values
With more tasks being handled by AI, many workers find that they have no direct relation to the actual output of their work. Trade jobs provide easily accessible alternatives as they offer direct results that people can see. Whether they are installing electrical systems or repairing damaged vehicles, they can see the results of their hard work.
5. Trade Skills Encourage Entrepreneurship and Independence
Another reason why trade employment is a more viable path in the economy, faced with the impact of AI, is the aspect of autonomy. Trained electricians and plumbers can start their own companies and create jobs for other tradespeople.
AI can potentially improve various aspects of running a trade business, for example, organizing the calendar, billing, or estimates. But it won’t replace the service offered. This enables trade professionals to leverage technology as an aid instead of considering it a threat.
In a time where job security has become less certain, the capacity to manage one’s personal income and workload has become a coveted accomplishment.
With ongoing changes driven by the development and implementation of AI, the appeal of trade careers remains strong. Trades are resistant to automation, and there is a strong demand for employment. While AI will change how work is done, trades will not be as seriously affected by technology as professions in other sectors.
If you want the best chance of job security, the best option is to future-proof your career. In this age of AI, a great way to do that is to build a career in the trade sector.
