My Professional Background

Although I am relatively new to the data and tech sectors, I have a decade of professional experience in Real Estate, particularly in Operations and Finance. This exposure has equipped me to foresee the evolving landscape of certain jobs.

As a Data Engineer, I specialize in developing data pipelines for analytics and automating repetitive tasks. I often empathize with workers who may face job losses, as I recognize the time-consuming tasks they perform that are likely to be replaced by automation.

Moreover, Data Science projects are capable of taking over some responsibilities traditionally held by skilled workers, leading to job transformations rather than outright disappearances. Awareness and proactive measures are essential before it's too late! Upskilling is crucial for adapting to new career opportunities, which require time to develop.

Identifying Automation Indicators

1. Repetitive Administrative Duties

   If your role involves simple tasks like transferring data from one document to another, automation can easily handle this.

2. Data Entry Responsibilities

   If you input data into software while a colleague records it on paper, the shift toward digital tools means your colleague may soon use a tablet for data entry.

3. Creating Reports

   My role involves automating reporting processes, meaning you might only be required to analyze reports instead of generating them. For instance, a team of four accountants could be reduced to one who analyzes data post-automation.

4. Manager Initiatives

   If your manager mentions a project aimed at simplifying your role, question the extent of your involvement. Consider asking:

   • What percentage of my time is dedicated to this task?
   • Are there plans for my retraining and upskilling?

Regardless of your manager's reassurances, it’s crucial to be proactive about your career trajectory. Ultimately, your employer’s financial interests may overshadow personal commitments.

Consequences of Automation

While automation can enhance company efficiency, it poses significant challenges for employees.

1. Mental Health Concerns

   Job insecurity can lead to decreased self-esteem and motivation.

2. Income Implications

   With increasing automation, fewer similar roles will exist, exerting downward pressure on wages. As inflation continues to rise, particularly post-pandemic, financial strain is inevitable.

Governmental Approaches to Automation

Currently, there are no effective solutions in place.

• Universal Basic Income (UBI)

  Some nations are trialing UBI, which may seem appealing. However, consider whether you would genuinely be satisfied living on minimal government support without a job. Work offers more than just a paycheck; it provides purpose and respect within society.

• Taxing Automation

  This concept remains theoretical, with no countries implementing such measures. Corporations would likely resist this policy.

Actions to Take

First, acknowledge that automation is inevitable. Resisting this reality will not yield benefits.

If you are nearing retirement, this may not be a pressing concern, but for younger workers, it is vital to assess the longevity of your role.

Consider these steps:

• Research job longevity and evolution.
• Continuously upskill to adapt to changing job requirements.
• Explore new income sources or career paths.
• Engage with knowledgeable individuals to discuss potential changes.
• Maintain financial prudence by saving and avoiding unnecessary spending.

In Conclusion...

If you found this article informative, please share it with friends and family. Your support on platforms like Medium is greatly appreciated!

Explore the journey of transitioning from a high-paying data engineering job to embracing new opportunities in the tech landscape.

Discover how one individual transformed job loss into a thriving career in data engineering, overcoming programming anxiety along the way.