In an increasingly digital world, many jobs now depend heavily on technology. Unfortunately, this trend presents a significant challenge for Latino workers who often face a disadvantage due to limited digital skills and accessibility issues. A recent report from researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, highlights the disproportionate impact of automation on Latino employees in sectors like agriculture, construction, retail, and food services.
The report issued by the UCLA Latino Policy Institute underscores the overrepresentation of Latinos in industries vulnerable to automation. Addressing this challenge is crucial for economic mobility and equity, explained Misael Galdámez, co-author of the report titled “On the Frontlines: Automation Risks for Latino Workers in California.” According to Galdámez, “Latino workers are confronting automation risks head-on, but they face barriers such as limited English proficiency, inadequate digital access, and significant educational gaps.”
The personal journey of Valerie Gills, a former hotel receptionist from Phoenix, exemplifies the challenges faced by many. With her job replaced by self-check kiosks and AI-powered chatbots, Gills’ story highlights the emotional and economic toll of technological advancements. Despite the setback, Gills embarked on a journey to acquire new skills by pursuing an internship as a blog editor while seeking further tech education in data analytics and software development.
While automation challenges traditional roles, Ramiro Cavazos, President and CEO of the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, believes it can also create new job opportunities and improve working conditions. Efforts to bridge the tech divide include collaborations with over 500 foundations to fund skill-training initiatives, helping Latino workers become more competitive in today's job market. Cavazos notes significant investments have been made to equip Latino workers with essential skills.
During President Joe Biden's administration, the U.S. Department of Labor emphasized providing Latino workers with pathways to career upgrades through apprenticeship programs. Manny Lamare, former deputy assistant secretary for employment and training, noted that these apprenticeships are vital for offering high-paying and meaningful careers, perfectly aligned with Latino needs.
Carlos Vasquez, founder of Miami Ed Tech, supports this sentiment by providing nontraditional apprenticeships in emerging sectors like AI, data science, and web design. According to Vasquez, “Apprenticeships offer financial support and a promise of training from day one, greatly benefiting Latino workers and students and facilitating upward mobility.”
Historically, the productivity and efficiency gains from automation have come at the expense of low-skilled jobs, disproportionately affecting Latino workers. According to a UCLA study, California currently employs 2.3 million Latinos in roles that are most susceptible to automation, with 21% lacking access to high-speed internet—a critical barrier to gaining digital skills.
Organizations like the Hispanic Federation are proactively working to narrow the digital skills gap by partnering with over 50 community-based organizations. Diana Caba, their vice president for community and economic development, revealed that training has already reached over 35,000 people, with about 6,000 securing new jobs and over 10,500 achieving six-figure incomes.
Dylan Pravia’s experience with Miami Ed Tech is a testament to the impact of these training programs. Starting as an intern, Pravia gained valuable computer and programming skills, which he now applies as a mechanical engineering student. He praises the initiative for unlocking hidden talent and providing Latino students with opportunities to shine in various fields.
While automation and AI bring advancements, they also pose a double-edged sword, warns Gills. The promise of new roles must be balanced against the loss of many low-skilled jobs crucial to Latino communities. As the landscape evolves, she urges systems to offer better retraining support to adapt to these changes.