As technology continues to evolve, there are concerns about the impact on Latino workers, especially as many of their jobs become more reliant on digital skills. A study from the University of California, Los Angeles, sheds light on this issue, indicating that Latino workers are often employed in sectors such as agriculture, construction, retail, and food services. Unfortunately, these fields are increasingly at risk of automation, which could leave many workers unprepared for the shifting job market.
The report highlights that Latino workers are overrepresented in roles that face a high risk of being automated. Misael Galdámez, co-author of the report, emphasized that the challenge of automation isn’t just a technological concern but also a matter of equity. Many Latino workers encounter obstacles such as limited English proficiency, lack of internet access, and educational gaps.
Take the case of Valerie Gills, who worked as a hotel receptionist for three years. In 2023, her workplace implemented self-check-in kiosks and AI-driven chatbots, making her role redundant. Gills expressed her discomfort with the changes: “I understood that companies strive for efficiency, but it felt like technology was robbing us of opportunities.” After losing her job, Gills found temporary employment but struggled to regain the stability she once had. She noted the mental toll this taken on her, highlighting how vulnerable workers can be when industries are automated.
Ramiro Cavazos, president of the U.S. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, pointed out that while automation can push workers with limited skills out of their jobs, it can also create new opportunities and improve working conditions. He remarked that many Latinos have made significant strides in education and skills training, which can help them adapt to changing economic demands.
As Gills sought new employment, it became clear to her that she needed to acquire new skills to remain competitive. She eventually secured an internship as a blog editor and is now actively pursuing technology courses in data analysis and software development.
Cavazos mentioned that the Hispanic Chamber is collaborating with over 500 organizations to ensure that corporations provide training for Latino workers to help them thrive in today’s job market. He has observed considerable investment focused on equipping Latino workers with essential skills.
During the Biden administration, the Department of Labor worked to facilitate pathways for Latino workers to gain new skills through apprenticeship programs. Former Deputy Assistant Secretary Manny Lamare noted that apprenticeships cater to those seeking well-paying, family-supportive careers. He expressed the importance of engaging individuals where they are and emphasized the government’s intentional investments in Latino and Hispanic communities.
On the other hand, under President Trump, the Department of Labor officials did not immediately respond regarding the status of these apprenticeship programs, highlighting a potential gap in ongoing support. Carlos Vásquez, founder of Miami Ed Tech, explained that apprenticeships are beneficial for Latinos because they provide paid work from the outset along with training commitments from employers. Miami Ed Tech offers programs in areas such as AI, data science, and web design.
Cavazos reiterated the need for enhancing digital skills among Latino workers to help them adapt to the workforce’s evolution. A 2023 UCLA study found that over 2.3 million Latinos in California work in positions highly susceptible to automation. Alarmingly, 21% of Latinos employed in these roles do not have access to high-speed internet, which is essential for improving digital skills. Additionally, a 2021 Pew Research study revealed that only 67% of Hispanic adults owned a desktop or laptop computer compared to 80% of white adults.
Diana Caba, VP of community and economic development with the Hispanic Federation, highlighted the digital divide facing the Latino community as more aspects of life move online. Her organization has collaborated with over 50 community groups to address this issue by providing training and access to technology. Caba reported that 70% of the 35,000 people trained have completed their programs, with considerable success in securing six-figure salaries among graduates.
Dylan Pravia, a former intern at Miami Ed Tech, praised the organization for its efforts in equipping students with essential tech skills. He believes that talent exists across the board and that Latino students deserve ample opportunities to showcase their skills.
In reflection, Gills acknowledges that while technology is the future, automation feels like a double-edged sword. It can create opportunities for highly skilled workers but can also reduce the availability of low-skilled jobs that many Latinos rely on. “I’ve seen firsthand how many coworkers were replaced by kiosks or chatbots,” she noted. She calls for better support from the system to train workers and prepare them for new roles, recognizing the challenges that modernization can bring. “We simply have to learn to adapt,” she added.
