The technology industry is at a crossroads when it comes to the future of human workers in an AI-powered world. There are two prevailing thoughts: either all jobs will be taken over by bots, or humans will transition into new roles created by the bot revolution. The latter scenario is supported by historical evidence, with the World Economic Forum predicting that while 92 million jobs may be displaced by technological trends, 170 million new jobs will be created.
For those without the means or interest to pursue advanced degrees in AI and machine learning, such as current unskilled laborers like warehouse workers, what does this bot-filled future hold for them? Amazon recently unveiled its new Vulcan robot, designed to work alongside humans in warehouses. The robot will handle physically demanding tasks like reaching items on high shelves, while humans will take on tasks that require more dexterity. Amazon is also training warehouse workers to become robot technicians, creating new job categories within the company.
While Amazon’s approach offers a glimpse into one possible future, there is still uncertainty about what the post-robot world will look like for working-class individuals. Some speculate that jobs like grocery clerks and fast-food cooks could evolve into roles overseeing automation, much like the current setup with self-checkout clerks. The ability to operate and maintain robots could become a necessary skill for employability.
However, it’s also possible that a fully automated future may never come to fruition. Bots may remain limited to large corporations like Amazon, while smaller businesses continue to rely on human workers. Amazon’s attempt to sell its automation technology to the wider retail industry faced resistance, and the use of humans to monitor the technology raised ethical concerns.
In conclusion, the future of work in an AI-powered world remains uncertain. While automation may create new job opportunities, the transition will require upskilling and adaptation from workers. The role of humans in a bot-filled world is still evolving, and only time will tell how the relationship between humans and AI will shape the workforce of the future.
