When Will AI Replace Préposés aux services automobiles et nautiques ?

The automation of Automotive and Watercraft Service Attendant roles will occur in phases. By 2028, approximately 45% of these tasks will be automated. Entry-level attendants primarily involved in basic fueling and payment tasks face potential impact as early as 2026 due to accelerating self-service adoption.

The early wave of automation, starting around 2026, will heavily affect attendants performing routine, repeatable tasks. This includes self-service fueling stations and automated payment processing systems, which are becoming increasingly common.

The mid-wave transformation, extending towards 2028 and beyond, will see AI-powered diagnostic tools and electric vehicle infrastructure further automate tasks. Specialized attendants with mechanical repair skills, customer service expertise, or watercraft knowledge can expect their roles to evolve or extend to 2030-2032.

Attendants performing highly routine and repeatable tasks are most at risk. This includes entry-level positions focused on basic fueling, checking fluid levels, and processing payments. The standardized nature of these duties makes them prime candidates for automation by self-service technologies and AI.

Specialized attendants who possess mechanical repair skills, strong customer service expertise, or specific knowledge of marinas and watercraft are more secure. These roles require problem-solving and interpersonal skills that are harder to automate, potentially leading to career extensions up to 2030-2032.

To navigate the impact of AI, attendants have a 4-7 year window to transition to higher-skilled roles. This involves acquiring new skills that are less susceptible to automation, focusing on areas where human expertise remains critical.

Consider upskilling in areas like advanced diagnostics, specialized mechanical repairs for electric vehicles or watercraft, or enhanced customer relationship management. Developing expertise in areas requiring complex problem-solving in non-standard environments will be key to long-term career viability.