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He also says: “We need to understand how robotics and AI impact their daily work and understand their views on how automation will affect their jobs now and in the future.”
Positively contributing to Tye’s vision, the study found that employees with hands-on experience with robotics generally hold more positive views about automation’s impact.
This finding additionally suggests that familiarity with new technologies can alleviate concerns about their effects on employment.
However, the report also acknowledges that people have concerns about how new technology could change their jobs, particularly in light of recent advancements in generative AI.
Generative AI (Gen AI) refers to AI systems capable of creating new content, such as text, images, or code, based on existing data.
Amazon’s approach to workplace technology
In response to these findings, Amazon has outlined its strategy for integrating AI and robotics into its operations.
The company is well known for its e-commerce platform and cloud computing services, yet interestingly, it has committed to a human-centred approach to technology adoption.
Tye reports that Amazon has pledged over US$1.2bn since 2020 to train more than 300,000 employees, providing them with skills for high-growth jobs.
This initiative, known as the Upskilling Pledge, includes training in robotics, engineering and other technical roles that are increasingly in demand as the company’s operations evolve.
The report states that Amazon’s investment in training and education also helps employees transition into new, higher-paying roles.
For instance, many of Amazon’s fulfilment centres now require more skilled positions, such as maintenance and robotics engineers – jobs that did not exist in these environments a decade ago.
Safety and productivity enhancements
Amazon’s focus on workplace safety is another area where robotics plays a significant role. Acknowledging the importance of improving workplace safety, the company allocated US$750m in 2024, with a strong emphasis on ergonomics.
Tye additionally explains that robotics systems, such as the inventory management solution Sequoia and the autonomous mobile robot Proteus, allow employees to focus on tasks requiring higher levels of problem-solving.
Meanwhile, robots handle more routine, physically demanding tasks.
This means that these technologies aim to reduce the need for employees to perform repetitive or physically strenuous tasks, potentially lowering the risk of workplace injuries.