AI is everywhere: writing legal briefs, generating ad campaigns, even helping diagnose medical conditions. In boardrooms and breakrooms alike, conversations about artificial intelligence are reshaping how we think about the future of work.
But while AI dominates headlines about automation and disruption, a quieter story is unfolding. Skilled trades, especially in home improvement, aren’t just weathering the storm. They’re thriving because of it.
AI Is Reshaping the Workforce, Just Not in the Way You’d Expect
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy recently warned that AI would lead to significant reductions in white-collar roles. The writing is on the wall. Traditional desk jobs, once considered the safest career path, are becoming more vulnerable.
Not all jobs face the same threat. In a recent interview, Lowe’s CEO Marvin Ellison offered a different kind of advice: stay close to the cash register. In other words, look toward customer-facing roles and skilled trades. These are jobs that require human interaction, judgment, and hands-on execution.
As AI changes the nature of office work, it’s reinforcing the value of the people who install, build, repair, and remodel homes.
The Skilled Labor Shortage Is Only Getting Worse
While some industries are shrinking their workforce, home improvement is running out of qualified people to meet growing demand. Each year the industry loses approximately 1.9 Million workers. Additionally, more than 40% of skilled tradespeople are expected to retire by 2031. Residential Construction must attract 439,000 new workers in 2025 alone, and there aren’t enough young workers stepping in to fill these roles.
That shortfall is already affecting the industry. Fewer people are available to install flooring, replace roofs, build fences, hang doors and windows, or take on full-scale remodeling jobs. Contractors face tighter timelines and rising customer expectations, but not enough crew to keep up.
This is a short-term problem and a long-term shift that could reshape how the home improvement industry operates.
Big Box Retailers Are Building the Next Generation of Tradespeople
Some companies aren’t waiting for the labor market to fix itself. Lowe’s, for example, launched its Track to the Trades program to give employees access to free online training in fields like construction, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work. The courses are delivered through Interplay Learning and designed to prepare participants for apprenticeships or trade careers.
Marvin Ellison has publicly stated that he’s fine if graduates leave Lowe’s for higher-paying opportunities. The goal is less about retention and more about rebuilding the skilled labor pipeline.
Home Depot has launched the Path to Pro program to develop the next generation of skilled workers. Home Depot is investing in career readiness by offering free training, trade education, and exposure to hands-on careers like carpentry, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical work. The program includes an online skills platform, training partnerships with nonprofit organizations, and a job board to connect new tradesmen with Home Depot’s network of Pro customers.
This investment aligns with a broader strategy. As we noted in an earlier blog, big box retailers are expanding their Pro Services and installer programs. Whether it’s windows, kitchens, or outdoor living upgrades, these companies are counting on trade professionals to fulfill growing demand. The big box retailers are becoming workforce engines to sell more building materials.
Why AI Can’t Replace What Tradespeople Do
AI can write reports and automate scheduling, but it can’t climb a ladder or replace a broken fence. Whether you’re a general contractor or a flooring installer, your work is physical, situational, and requires a level of experience that software can’t replicate.
Success in the trades depends on adaptability, hands-on skills, and customer interaction. These qualities don’t translate well into algorithms or machine learning models. That’s why skilled trades remain some of the most durable careers, even in an increasingly automated economy.
Why Technology Still Matters
Although AI won’t replace tradespeople, it is reshaping the tools they use. The biggest benefit of AI in a tight labor market comes from software platforms that drive efficiency in estimating, scheduling, jobsite documentation, and safety.
Contractors need systems that keep their teams on schedule, manage job progress, and streamline communication. That requires coordination across multiple moving parts. That’s where Cilio fits in.
Our contractor software helps installers, remodelers, and tradesmen manage their workload more effectively, even as staffing remains a challenge. It’s not about cutting corners. It’s about using smarter tools to deliver better results and greater customer satisfaction.
A New Perspective on Skilled Work and Its Value
AI may be changing the rules for some careers, but the skilled trades are emerging as one of the most stable and rewarding options. From roofing to fencing, remodeling to window installs, these jobs offer hands-on work, long-term demand, and real value in people’s lives.
Companies like Lowe’s and Home Depot see the trend and are investing in it. So are contractors who recognize the importance of having the right tools behind the scenes.
At Cilio, we’re here to support that shift. We help contractors scale operations, stay organized, and meet the rising expectations of customers and retailers alike. If you’re ready to see how technology can support your team (not replace it) , schedule a call or demo today.
