AI threatens manufacturing jobs despite labor gaps

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES — Advances in artificial intelligence are threatening manufacturing jobs previously thought safe from automation, according to experts.
As generative AI models become more capable of complex tasks, they can act as “digital twins” to simulate or even replace human workers in factories.
AI-powered computer vision tools can provide ongoing monitoring and quality control, reducing the need for multiple quality assurance roles, said Ed Watal, founder of IT strategy firm Intellibus.
“As Gen AI gets applied to computer vision and becomes more multi-modal, allowing people to upload an image or video and ask questions about it, more blue-collar jobs will be at risk,” Watal told Fox Business.
Watal said AI can capture the knowledge and expertise of experienced workers into a “digital supervisor twin,” requiring fewer humans. He expects AI will increasingly handle maintenance, quality control, and other complex blue-collar jobs as the technology advances.
Goldman Sachs predicts AI advancements could jeopardize 300 million jobs globally due to automation. Manufacturers have eagerly adopted AI to address labor shortages, with 72% citing hiring challenges according to a National Association of Manufacturers survey.
Watal added that as AI affects blue-collar employment, labor unions are factoring AI into contract negotiations, following similar concerns from Hollywood earlier this year.
While AI enables manufacturers to bridge labor gaps and optimize operations, the rapid advance of generative AI serves as a stark reminder that automation extends beyond white-collar roles.