Is technology impacting skilled trade job opportunities?

I've heard some discussions about technology replacing skilled trade jobs, and I'm curious about how true this is. As someone considering this path after high school, should I be worried about tech taking away these job opportunities?

Technology has indeed had an impact on skilled trade jobs, however, it's important to understand that this isn't necessarily a negative impact. For many trades, technology has changed the nature of the work, rather than eliminating it. For instance, some manual jobs may now be done by machines. But these machines still need to be operated, maintained, repaired, and updated, creating new areas of expertise within the skilled trades.

In other trades, technology has introduced new tools that make the job easier or more efficient, and therefore learning these tools has become part of the skill set for these jobs. For example, electricians now use electronic testing equipment, while construction workers use computer-aided design software.

In some instances, new technologies have even created entire new trades. For instance, the shift towards renewable energy has created demand for solar panel installers and wind turbine service technicians.

So while it's true that technology is changing the landscape of skilled trade jobs, it is also creating new opportunities. As long as you are willing to adapt, keep learning, and potentially even leverage technology to your advantage, there will likely continue to be a place for you in the skilled trades industry. Just remember that continuous learning and adaptability are key in any field, and it is no different in skilled trades.