The AI Impact Timeline: What to Expect
The automation wave for Grinding and Polishing Workers is set to escalate. By 2029, approximately 55% of their tasks will be impacted by AI and robotics. Entry-level polishers in high-volume manufacturing are the most immediate group at risk, facing potential job changes as early as 2026. This early impact stems from the automation of repetitive finishing work on standardized components.
As we move towards the mid-term, the capabilities of AI-powered quality control and automated surface treatment equipment will become more sophisticated. This will lead to a broader adoption of robotic finishing systems across various manufacturing processes. While specific mid-term dates are not detailed, the trend indicates a steady increase in automation's reach.
Skilled craftspeople who specialize in finishing complex parts, custom work, and artistic pieces can anticipate a longer runway, potentially extending their careers to around 2033. This segment of the workforce is less susceptible to immediate automation due to the nuanced and non-repetitive nature of their tasks.