How ‘upskilling’ is changing the workforce and salaries

Summary

The video explores the evolving landscape of work as automation transforms industries. It features stories of employees from Walmart and Amazon who have successfully retrained for new roles after their jobs were impacted by technology. Workers express concerns about job security but show willingness to learn new skills, with many embracing training programs offered by their employers. Companies are investing in workforce development, providing opportunities for career advancement through free education and hands-on training. The narrative emphasizes the importance of adaptability and support from employers in navigating the challenges posed by automation.

Takeaways

• 😀 Automation is improving efficiency in tasks like lifting and sorting, reducing injury risks for workers.
• 🤖 37% of workers are concerned about automation threatening their jobs, while 73% believe technology can't replace human intellect.
• 📈 Many workers are eager to learn new skills or retrain to enhance their employability in an automated job market.
• 🚚 Jackie Burton successfully transitioned from an order filler at Walmart to a certified driver, significantly increasing her salary.
• 💼 Chance, a former Walmart unloader, benefited from a two-month training program, leading to a role that offers up to $27 an hour.
• 🧠 Automation allows workers to engage in problem-solving rather than physical labor, enhancing job satisfaction.
• 💰 Amazon is investing $1.2 billion to help over 300,000 employees access higher-paying careers through upskilling.
• 🎓 Amazon's free 18-month Megatronics and Robotics Apprenticeship has resulted in over 1,700 graduates moving into tech-focused roles.
• 🌍 Amazon's AI Ready program provides free global AI skills training, accessible to both employees and the public.
• 🔑 Workers are encouraged to talk to supervisors about training opportunities, which can lead to career advancements and improved job satisfaction.

Q & A

What tasks are robots currently better at compared to humans?

Robots can lift boxes, load pallets, and pick and sort items more efficiently and safely than humans, reducing the risk of injury.

What percentage of surveyed workers are concerned about automation affecting their jobs?

A recent report found that 37% of workers surveyed are worried about automation putting jobs at risk.

How do workers feel about the potential of technology replacing human jobs?

73% of workers believe that technology can never replace the human mind.

What is Walmart's Associate-to-Driver program?

The program allows employees to transition to driving positions after completing 18 weeks of training, enabling them to earn significantly higher salaries.

What salary can Jackie Burton expect as a certified Walmart private fleet driver?

Jackie Burton now makes six figures a year as a certified Walmart private fleet driver.

What was Chance's job before he transitioned to a higher-paying role?

Chance previously worked as an unloader at Walmart, where he loaded and unloaded pallets.

What advice does Chance give to those facing automation in their workplace?

He advises that anyone can adapt to automation through training and dedication, emphasizing that these roles can lead to long-term careers rather than just jobs.

How much is Amazon investing to help employees transition into higher-paying careers by 2025?

Amazon plans to invest $1.2 billion to assist over 300,000 U.S. employees in obtaining higher-paying careers through upskilling and free education.

What is the purpose of Amazon's AI Ready program?

The AI Ready program provides free AI skills training globally and is open to the public, not just Amazon employees.

What should employees do to learn about available training programs?

Employees are encouraged to talk to their supervisors and seek out individuals in roles they aspire to, asking questions about how they can transition into those jobs.