One of the biggest concerns in working with autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) is the common misconception that introducing AMRs will take human jobs. This statement is true, and not true at the same time. Yes, AMRs will take over many tedious tasks people usually do, but it will create new, different job opportunities. Even though autonomous mobile robots already have a widespread area of functionality, they are still a fairly new technology. And, as it is with every new, innovative, and “unusual” technology, there’s this crippling fear that because of it a lot of people will lose their jobs.
A perfect example of such a technology? Computers. Way back when computers were still the size of a whole room, people were apprehensive about what this meant for their jobs. As we now know, not only did computers make a lot of jobs easier, they created millions of job opportunities.
Can autonomous mobile robots have the same effect?
AMRs Free Up Human Potential
AMRs are designed to handle repetitive, mundane tasks that were once a significant portion of human labor. Tasks like transporting goods across a warehouse, sorting items, or stocking shelves are now efficiently managed by AMRs. This shift allows employees to redirect their time and energy toward more complex and strategic activities.
For example, rather than spending hours moving inventory, workers can now focus on quality control, process improvement, and customer service—areas where human insight and creativity are crucial.
AMRs Foster Innovation and Skill Development
When employees are relieved of routine tasks, they have more opportunities to engage in innovative projects and develop new skills. Companies can (and should!) invest in upskilling their workforce, encouraging employees to take on roles that involve problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration—skills that are increasingly valuable in a technology-driven world.
Moreover, the integration of AMRs often requires new roles for human workers, such as robot maintenance, programming, and oversight. These positions not only provide new job opportunities but also offer career paths in growing fields like robotics and automation.
AMRs Enhance Workplace Safety
AMRs are designed to operate in environments that can be dangerous to humans, such as heavy lifting, or dealing with extreme temperatures. By taking on these tasks, AMRs help reduce workplace injuries, leading to a safer and more sustainable work environment.
This safety enhancement allows employees to work in less physically demanding roles, focusing instead on tasks that require human judgment and expertise. The result is a healthier, more engaged workforce that can contribute more effectively to the company’s goals.
AMRs Drive Business Growth
Rather than replacing human workers, AMRs work alongside them, creating a collaborative environment where machines handle the repetitive tasks, and humans take on roles that require decision-making, creativity, and emotional intelligence.
By automating routine tasks, AMRs help businesses streamline operations and reduce costs. These efficiencies can be reinvested into the business, driving innovation, expanding product lines, or entering new markets. As companies grow, they create additional job opportunities, not only within the organization but also in the broader economy.
While the adoption of AMRs might seem to some like one step closer to robots taking over the world, it is the opposite. The bottom line is, that autonomous mobile robots are not really attention seekers like that – they just want to improve businesses’ efficiency and empower the workforce to focus on what they do best.
By freeing up time and energy, fostering skill development, enhancing safety, and driving business growth, AMRs create a ripple effect of positive change within organizations. As businesses continue to embrace this technology, the potential for new job opportunities and career growth is immense, ensuring that the workforce of the future is both productive and fulfilled.
