The advancement of automation is impacting millions of workers in the United States, especially young Latinos and those employed in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and retail, who are at risk of losing their jobs due to a lack of training and proficiency in English. Experts consulted by EFE believe this problem goes beyond technology and poses challenges of labor equity.
According to a study conducted by the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), in the state of California, where there are 2.3 million Hispanics employed in jobs with a high probability of automation, significant risks are evident. These workers face barriers such as limited internet access, low educational levels, and insufficient digital skills, which places them in a vulnerable position against technological changes.
Misael Galdámez, a UCLA researcher and co-author of the report, emphasizes that automation not only implies the substitution of workers but also the modification of job positions and the demand for new skills for which many Latinos are unprepared. An example of this is the transition in supermarkets, where cashiers used to only charge customers, and now more specialized technical and customer service skills are required.
The study highlights the need for public policies that close the digital divide, expand access to technology, and support job training to ensure a resilient and equitable workforce in the future. Researchers warn that Latinos, with low levels of digital literacy and limited access to training opportunities, are at high risk of being displaced in the job market by automation.
In sectors such as agriculture, the adoption of technologies like mechanical tomato harvesters has led to a decrease in labor demand, which directly impacts Latino workers. In this context, the challenge for Latino workers is to adapt to technological changes and improve their skills to remain employable in a constantly evolving job market.
