Automation has had a Ripple Effect on Gender Dynamics in the Workplace
In the 1980s, women were more likely to work in jobs at risk of automation, facing greater displacement from routine-intensive roles.
Over the last four decades, women have pivoted towards higher-skill, higher-wage occupations more than their male counterparts.
As a result, labor markets more reliant on routine tasks witnessed a higher level of gender occupational integration. Labor markets have evolved towards a more balanced representation of men and women across various professions.
The net effect of automation has been decreased occupational segregation by gender.
Local labor markets with higher exposure to automation saw a significant rise in college attainment among younger workers, especially women.
The impact of automation varied widely across regions, influenced by historical industry structure differences, affecting gender-specific job shifts.
Both men and women experienced decreased labor force participation rates due to automation.
These insights underscore the complex interplay between technology, gender, and the evolving job market.
Here’s a link to the entire paper, “Automation and Gender: Implications for Occupational Segregation and the Gender Skill Gap.“
