Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the job market, but contrary to popular fear, it won't eliminate all employment. In fact, jobs requiring physical presence—especially skilled trades—are set to thrive.
The AI Revolution
AI has evolved from a simple search tool to a must-have technology, with tech giants like Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Oracle spending over US$750 billion on AI this year. Advanced models like Mythos AI can identify vulnerabilities in critical systems, raising concerns about cyber-attacks and even autonomous rogue behavior.
Energy Demands of AI
AI data centers require enormous amounts of electricity. The International Energy Agency estimates global electricity demand will more than double by 2030. While the U.S. and China lead in data centers, Europe struggles with an aging power grid and high energy costs. Alberta, Canada, with its abundant natural gas and land, is becoming a prime location for data centers, including the massive Wonder Valley Project costing US$70 billion.
Impact on Jobs
A Statistics Canada analysis found that three in five workers are in occupations with high exposure to AI. Tech companies are laying off thousands—Meta cut 8,000 employees, and more layoffs are expected at Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Oracle. Even computer science students face obsolescence as AI takes over software programming.
The Future: Skilled Trades
As virtual jobs disappear, physical-presence careers will prosper. These include healthcare professionals, architects, engineers, and especially skilled trades like electricians, plumbers, carpenters, welders, and auto mechanics. Becoming a tradesperson means working with your hands and knowledge, offering fulfilling, real-world impact. With AI handling nearly everything else, trades are the real future.
Gwyn Morgan, a retired business leader, has been a director of five global corporations.
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