Artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly, but it has limitations, particularly in skilled trades. "AI can't fix a roof, address electrical issues, or repair a leaking water heater," said Lowe's CEO Marvin Ellison at Business Roundtable's CEO Workforce Forum in Washington, DC. He emphasized the strong demand for skilled tradespeople, citing US Bureau of Labor Statistics data showing nearly 250,000 job openings in construction and 381,000 in manufacturing as of April.
Ellison noted that frontline jobs, whether on construction sites or in Lowe's 1,748 stores, are likely to resist AI disruption. He advised young workers to "stay close to the cash register" and focus on customer-facing roles for long-term job security and growth.
His remarks followed Amazon CEO Andy Jassy’s memo predicting AI-driven reductions in white-collar jobs. Many executives foresee AI disrupting customer service, tech, and entry-level office roles, prompting some younger workers to pursue blue-collar careers over traditional college degrees.
Lowe’s supports this shift through a tuition-free education program for employees, offering two- or four-year curricula. Ellison said graduates may work for Lowe’s customers, such as contractors or builders, addressing a critical labor shortage. "We’re perfectly OK with that," he added.