Lowe's CEO: AI Can't Replace Skilled Trades, Demand Growing 20 Times Faster

Lowe's CEO Marvin Ellison recently addressed the workforce, emphasizing the enduring importance of skilled trades and customer-facing jobs in the era of artificial intelligence. Ellison's remarks, delivered at a recent event, underscored the practical limitations of AI in certain sectors, particularly in home improvement and repair services. He stated bluntly, "AI isn't going to fix a hole in your roof," highlighting the necessity of human expertise in these areas.

Ellison pointed out that there is a significant unmet demand for skilled tradespeople and those who can interact directly with customers. This demand is driven by the fact that many tasks, especially those involving physical labor and direct customer interaction, cannot be effectively replaced by AI. The CEO's comments reflect a broader trend in the industry, where the value of hands-on skills and personal service remains high.

The CEO's message to young workers is clear: while AI and automation are transforming many industries, there are still ample opportunities in fields that require human touch and expertise. Ellison's advice to young workers is to focus on developing skills that are in demand and that cannot be easily replicated by machines. This includes trades such as plumbing, electrical work, and carpentry, as well as roles that involve direct customer interaction.

Ellison's perspective is grounded in the practical realities of the home improvement sector. While AI can enhance efficiency and accuracy in certain areas, it cannot replace the need for skilled labor and personal service. This is particularly true in a sector where customer satisfaction often hinges on the quality of the work and the ability to address specific, often unique, customer needs.

The CEO's remarks also touch on the broader implications of AI in the workforce. While AI has the potential to automate many tasks, it also creates new opportunities for those who can adapt and develop the skills needed to work alongside these technologies. For young workers, this means focusing on education and training that prepares them for a future where AI and human labor coexist and complement each other.

Ellison's comments come at a time when there is a fierce debate among business leaders about the impacts of AI, especially on young talent. Some business leaders agree one growing pathway to success is the skilled trade industry. After all, construction, utilities, as well as oil, gas and mining are the fastest-growing industries for new grads. Electricians in particular are so desperately needed that the U.S. could run out of them—thanks in part to growing demand and the deportation of skilled workers.

Demand for plumbers, roofers, and electricians is expected to grow over the next decade—and each rate is faster than the national average of all occupations. However, the need for young people to pursue critical trade skills is even more dire due to the aging of existing skilled trade workers; in fact, hiring for critical skilled roles could be more than 20 times the projected annual increase in new jobs between 2022 and 2032.