The relentless wave of technology has got into every angle of human living, and the
manufacturing industry is not outside this. Sophisticated robotics and artificial intelligence-
powered automation promises an era of previously unimagined efficiency and productivity.
However, amidst the dazzling potential, a chilling question arises: Are human jobs at stake? The
threat of mass unemployment is genuine, but at the same time, it has to be understood that the
equation between automation and human labour does not equal zero. With the proper handling of
robotics integration with human skills, we can unleash a future where humans and machines
prosper. While there exists an imminent threat of automation to employment in the manufacturing
industry, this paper provides a myriad of benefits that automation offers, which could be aligned with
humans to create an inclusive work environment for both human labour and machines.
The benefits of robots in manufacturing are many. Primarily, they are good at doing
repetitive, dangerous, or physically demanding jobs. It enhances workers’ safety at the workplace
and allows them to concentrate on creative, critical thinking, and problem-solving tasks
(Manyika, 2017). Robots can also run tirelessly around the clock, increasing production capacity
and responding to market demands (World Economic Forum, 2020). This agility makes it
possible for manufacturers to compete effectively in a globalized marketplace where efficiency
and fast adaptation are essential. Also, according to Russel and Norvig, robots can present higher
product quality and consistency since their tasks are performed precisely and consistently (2020).
This means fewer defects, less waste material, and happier customers.
However, one cannot ignore the possible opposing sides of automation. Such an approach
benefits companies by replacing repetitive tasks performed by humans with robots; however, fear
arises in people automating tasks that are much more complicated and require different types of
human judgment and adaptability. This would result in considerable joblessness, especially
among low-skilled workers in particular sectors (Ford, 2015). Moreover, implementing and
maintaining robots would come at a very high initial cost, which could keep out smaller
manufacturers, enhancing economic inequality (Russel & Norvig, 2020). Additionally, the
ethical consequences of job displacement and social unrest must be discerned with utmost care.
So, in order to enjoy all the benefits of automation but reduce its risks, a proactive strategy is
needed.
Towards the future, however, securing human jobs in a playing field where robots and
robotics continue to loom significant requires that we embrace a multi-pronged tack. Firstly,
education investments and reskilling programs should be made to provide workers with what
they need most in an economy driven by technology. This includes promoting digital literacy,
analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills (World Economic Forum, 2020). Second, it is
essential to facilitate collaboration and symbiosis between human beings and robots. Finally, as
stated by Ford, social solid protection nets and income redistribution policies are essential to
safeguard vulnerable workers in transition periods and ensure fair distribution of the benefits
derived from automation (2015).
In conclusion, the development of automation and robotics makes a rapid entry into
manufacturing, encouraging as many advantages as drawbacks in some aspects. While questions
of job displacement are legitimate, making the narrative into a human-machine battle could be
more helpful. Collaborative human-robot partnerships point to the future of manufacturing,
where each side uses its strengths to build a more efficient, productive, and ultimately more
prosperous ecosystem. In other words, if we anticipate challenges and harness the benefits of
automation and robotics proactively, vulnerability to hardship can be transformed into a strength
by version; for example, in 2030, physical transformation wherein humans working together with
machines produce a stunning prospect for work in the manufacturing process which ushers
unprecedented industrial brilliance.
References
Ford, M. (2015). Rise of the robots: technology and the threat of a jobless future. New York:
Basic Books, a member of the Perseus Books Group.
Manyika, J. (2017). Jobs lost, jobs gained: workforce transitions in a time of automation.
Retrieved from Voced.edu.au website: http://hdl.voced.edu.au/10707/444873
Russel, S., & Norvig, P. (2020). Artificial intelligence: a Modern approach. (4th ed.). Prentice
Hall.
World Economic Forum. (2020). The Future of Jobs Report 2020. In World Economic Forum.
World Economic Forum. Retrieved from World Economic Forum website:
https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_2020.pdf
