What can be a result of increased job automation on ILWU jobs?

The consequence of increased job automation on ILWU jobs leading to a reduction in available job positions is rooted in the way automation typically changes the workforce landscape. When tasks that were previously performed by human workers are taken over by machines or automated processes, the number of jobs needed to complete those tasks can significantly decrease. This trend can be observed in various industries, including those in the shipping and logistics sectors where the ILWU operates.

As companies adopt automated systems to boost efficiency and reduce costs, roles that were once filled by workers may become redundant. This shift can lead to fewer positions available for human laborers, thereby constraining job opportunities within the industry. It is important to recognize that while automation might introduce new roles focused on overseeing or maintaining automated systems, the overall number of traditional labor-intensive positions may decline, adversely impacting job availability for ILWU members.

In contrast, options such as increased job security for all workers, growth in physical labor jobs, and lower wages across the board do not capture the nuanced realities of how automation functions in the workplace. While it may seem that automated processes would lead to growth in other areas, historically, many sectors see a net loss in traditional roles due to the efficiency and effectiveness of machines. Furthermore, job security is often negatively