TLDR: A recent Indeed report reveals that a significant majority of blue-collar workers are adopting Artificial Intelligence, with 70% reporting increased productivity. The study highlights AI’s role in career growth, upskilling, and securing future opportunities for this segment of the workforce in India.
A new study by Indeed, titled ‘The Work Ahead report,’ indicates a strong embrace of Artificial Intelligence (AI) among blue-collar workers, particularly in India. The report, based on a survey of over 3,000 professionals across India, including both white-collar and blue-collar segments, reveals that 70% of blue-collar workers believe technology significantly aids them in their roles. Furthermore, two in ten are already actively utilizing Generative AI in their daily tasks.
This adoption is not merely for productivity gains; many blue-collar workers view AI as a crucial skill that can unlock opportunities for higher wages, promotions, and new career trajectories. The integration of AI is making inroads even in traditionally hands-on professions, where it is being used for tasks ranging from streamlining paperwork to enhancing customer service interactions.
Sashi Kumar, Head of Sales at Indeed India, commented on this trend, stating, ‘The rise in interest around Agentic AI signals that we are at the beginning of a transformation, one where job seekers are not just responding to change, but leading it.’ This sentiment underscores a proactive approach by the workforce to adapt to evolving technological landscapes.
The report also highlights a growing confidence among workers regarding future technologies. Approximately 43% of those surveyed expressed confidence about the technologies they anticipate using in the next two to five years, including Generative AI and Agentic AI. Notably, mid-career professionals aged 35 to 54 are at the forefront of this readiness, with nearly half (49%) feeling prepared for AI-integrated workplaces and actively seeking upskilling opportunities. Their primary motivations include career advancement, staying current with technology, and boosting efficiency.
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Despite the optimism, nearly one-third of workers expressed concerns about job security if they fail to keep pace with technological advancements. However, the overall trend suggests that AI has moved beyond a mere hype cycle and is becoming a tangible reality in the workplace, with 34% of surveyed individuals expecting to frequently use generative AI tools in the near future.
