Anand Mahindra issues a strong caution, arguing that the world may be focusing too heavily on fears surrounding artificial intelligence replacing white-collar jobs, while overlooking a far more urgent issue — the rapid decline of skilled tradespeople.
Mahindra explained that societies have long prioritized degree-based professions, unintentionally devaluing hands-on jobs that require technical skill, real-world expertise, and craftsmanship. These roles, he pointed out, are becoming harder to fill at a time when their importance is increasing, especially as AI struggles to replicate manual talent, experience-driven decision-making, and physical labor.
He referenced industry leaders who are already signaling major gaps in the availability of skilled workers, noting that numerous positions — such as mechanics, technicians, and other essential trade roles — continue to remain vacant despite offering competitive salaries and long-term career stability.
Mahindra suggested that the global workforce may be on the verge of a significant shift in how society views “dream careers,” calling attention to the urgent need to reassess the value of vocational skills. He described this trend as a possible rebalancing of the labor market, where those who build, repair, and create with their hands might emerge as the most indispensable workers of the future.
His warning adds to growing concerns that the real crisis on the horizon may not be AI replacing jobs — but rather a scarcity of the skilled workers needed to keep economies functioning.
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Source: Hindustan Times
