One-Third of Canadian Jobs at Risk from AI Automation
- Around 4.2 million Canadian workers, or 31 percent, are in high-exposure, low-complementarity jobs that could be replaced by AI.
- Highly educated workers are more likely to be affected by AI job transformations compared to less educated workers.
- The findings indicate a potential shift in the job market, with implications for both remote and non-remote workers.
A recent report by StatCan reveals that approximately 31 percent of Canadian workers, equating to around 4.2 million employees, are in high-exposure, low-complementarity occupations that could be replaced by AI in the future. The study categorizes workers based on their job exposure to AI, with 29 percent in roles that are highly exposed yet complementary to AI, and 40 percent in positions with less exposure. The findings indicate that highly educated workers may face greater risks of job transformation due to AI compared to their less educated counterparts, which contrasts with historical trends where technological changes primarily affected lower-educated workers. Specifically, the report highlights that 37 percent of employees with a bachelor’s degree and 36 percent with a college diploma are in jobs that could be replaced by AI, while only 25 percent of those with a high school diploma or less and 15 percent with a trade certificate face similar risks. Occupations with low exposure to AI, such as carpenters and plumbers, generally require less education and are less likely to be affected by AI advancements. The report also examines the impact of remote work, noting that over half (51 percent) of remote workers are in jobs that could be replaced by AI, compared to just 14 percent of non-remote workers. However, a significant portion of remote workers (47 percent) hold roles that are highly complementary with AI, indicating potential for collaboration rather than replacement. StatCan emphasizes that while AI may transform the job market, employers may not immediately replace human labor due to various constraints, including financial and legal considerations. This suggests a complex transition period as the workforce adapts to the evolving technological landscape.