These are the 'robot proof' jobs of the future: Pew Research

These are the 'robot proof' jobs of the future: Pew Research

Beth Corsentino September 3, 2017 CNBC.com

A recent study found that more than half of Americans are afraid they will lose their job to a robot. While plenty of jobs could be in jeopardy, there are certain fields that could be considered "robot proof."

Lee Rainie, director of Internet and technology research at the Pew Research Center, calls these positions "high touch jobs" that are not in danger of being outsourced, he explained to CNBC's "On The Money" recently. Fox example, positions like hair stylists, doctors, nurses or even physical therapists could turn into high growth industries.

"Anything that involves dealing directly with the public and taking care of them, either their needs in health or other places" are likely to survive the robot onslaught, Rainie said. According to him, analysts also see a trend in so-called S.T.E.M jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math. In particular, Lee pointed out algorithm writers and assessors in demand.

Education and re-training will also keep automation at bay. Rainie said companies, colleges and even high schools are offering programs to keep up with the evolving workplace.

"The business model of higher education is one of the ones that is being deeply disrupted," he told CNBC.

"Many colleges feel they are under pressure to produce graduates that are attuned to the new workplace," he said. "And they are inventing all sorts of new programs starting with online learning or hybrid courses that involve some level of classroom work as well as online work together." Rainie added that more colleges are promising alumni they will be there to help them as their work life evolves.

For those without an advanced degree, specifically manual laborers, skills like critical thinking and good communication will be essential. Machines can replicate many jobs but those are traits they can't learn.

Rainie added the future is clear: "All kinds of workers, including manual workers are under pressure to master machinery to help do their jobs and essentially life with those machines at their side."

On the Money airs on CNBC Saturday at 5:30 am ET, or check listings for air times in local markets.


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