It is undeniable that automation, digital services, and especially the introduction of artificial intelligence in practically all areas of our lives are changing the landscape. One of the sectors most affected by these technological advances is employment, as various analysts indicate that several jobs will be reduced or even disappear, being replaced by technology. This is the case for cashiers, bank tellers, travel agents, call center operators, taxi drivers, warehouse staff, or data analysts. In this scenario, specialists recommend that workers be able to adapt and learn new skills.
Impact of technology on the labor sector
The rapid evolution of digital technology and AI is irreversibly reshaping the work environment. Experts warn that by 2030 many professions could be seriously affected or even disappear, requiring massive career retraining for millions of workers. According to analysts, some of the at-risk positions are:
- Cashiers. There are very few establishments that do not already have self-checkout machines or smart carts capable of scanning products as they are placed in them. This, along with the increase in online shopping, reduces the need for cashiers.
- Bank tellers. It is increasingly common for users to handle their own transactions online. Additionally, more and more banks are without physical branches, which leads financial institutions to reduce costs by closing offices, directly impacting branch staff.
- Travel agents. The demand for traditional travel agents has been completely replaced by artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT, which, together with online booking platforms, allow users to plan a trip—from flights to accommodation and activities—without the need for intermediaries.
- Call center operators. Chatbots and virtual assistants already handle basic inquiries and, as their conversational and comprehension abilities improve, they will take on increasingly complex tasks, reducing the need for human agents.
- Taxi drivers. Although not yet fully operational worldwide and still with considerable flaws, autonomous driving emerges as a threat to private transportation. Capable of operating 24 hours without rest and with lower operating costs, it seems more attractive. Additionally, there are companies like Uber, which also negatively impact the taxi sector.
- Warehouse staff. Large companies like Amazon and Walmart have been investing in robots and automation systems for years to optimize their distribution centers. While human workers will still be necessary, many repetitive physical tasks are being replaced by faster and more efficient machines.
- Data analysts. Artificial intelligence is capable of entering, analyzing, and organizing information faster and with fewer errors than humans, so demand is increasingly lower.
What can be done about it?
According to experts, the only way out is adaptation. It is essential for workers to be able to learn new skills related to technology and the use of AI, thus facilitating a career change. Another option is to have more than one source of income to avoid depending on the stability of the employment sector in which one works.
Frequently asked questions
Which professions are at greatest risk due to technological advances?
Cashiers, bank employees, travel agents, and call center operators are the most vulnerable because of the use of self-service machines and AI. Drivers, warehouse staff, and data analysts are also at risk, as their repetitive or information-processing tasks are being automated.
How are new technologies displacing traditional jobs?
Tools like ChatGPT and online platforms allow users to manage travel or finances without intermediaries. Additionally, robotics in warehouses and autonomous driving offer greater efficiency and availability than human workers, reducing companies’ operational costs.
What strategies should workers follow to adapt to this change?
Experts recommend learning skills related to technology and artificial intelligence to facilitate a career change. They also suggest diversifying income sources to reduce dependence on job sectors that may become unstable due to automation.
