Latino workers among most vulnerable to AI automation, new data suggests

The adoption of workplace automation and artificial intelligence is disproportionately affecting Latino workers in the United States, with 2.3 million Latino workers in California alone employed in roles at high risk of automation. This demographic faces unique challenges in adapting to technological change due to limited access to digital resources and training opportunities.

Current state of digital divide: Latino workers face significant barriers to technological adaptation in the workforce, with only 67% of Hispanic adults owning desktop or laptop computers compared to 80% of white adults.

• One in five Latino workers in automation-vulnerable jobs lack high-speed internet access at home, limiting their ability to develop digital skills
• Latino workers are heavily concentrated in sectors most susceptible to automation, including agriculture, construction, retail, and food services
• The technology gap extends beyond hardware access to include limited opportunities for digital skills training and professional development

Personal impact and real-world examples: The human cost of automation is evident in stories like that of Valerie Gills, whose hotel receptionist position was eliminated due to the implementation of kiosks and chatbots.

• Job displacement due to automation often affects workers who lack alternative employment options
• The transition to automated systems can happen rapidly, leaving workers with little time to adapt
• Many affected workers struggle to find comparable employment without additional training

Initiative and solutions: Various organizations are implementing programs to address the digital skills gap among Latino workers.

• The Hispanic Chamber has established partnerships with foundations to provide targeted skills training programs
• The Department of Labor under the Biden administration has prioritized apprenticeship programs specifically designed for Latino workers
• Miami Ed Tech offers specialized apprenticeships in emerging fields like AI, data science, and web development
• The Hispanic Federation collaborates with various organizations to deliver digital skills training

Opportunities amid challenges: While automation poses immediate risks to certain job categories, it also creates new employment opportunities for workers who acquire relevant digital skills.

• The transition to automated systems is creating new roles in technology maintenance and oversight
• Workers who successfully complete digital training programs can often access higher-paying positions
• Some displaced workers have successfully transitioned to technology-adjacent roles through retraining programs

Future implications: The success of Latino workers in an increasingly automated economy will largely depend on expanding access to digital resources and training opportunities, while also addressing systemic barriers to technology adoption.