New research reveals who's most affected in the workplace
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the Canadian labour market, but its effects are not distributed equally among workers or occupations. At a recent Institute for Work and Health (IWH) webinar, Dr. Arif Jetha, associate scientific director at IWH, presented research exploring how AI is influencing job quality, gender equity, and worker well-being.
While only about 12% of Canadian companies formally report using AI, informal use among workers is much higher. Dr. Jetha pointed out that “some surveys show that close to two-thirds of workers may be using the technology,” highlighting the gap between organizational adoption and individual usage.
Gender, education, and AI exposure
The research uses “AI exposure” measures to assess which jobs are most likely to be affected by machine learning and large language models. Findings reveal that women are more likely to work in occupations with high exposure to machine learning, but when education and wages are considered, the trend shifts. Women with the highest educational attainment are less likely to be in jobs highly exposed to machine learning, while men with the highest education levels are more likely to be in such roles.
Dr. Jetha explained the impact of AI is not uniform, noting, “our research shows some notable gender differences and broadly speaking Canadian women workers are employed in jobs that are highly exposed to machine learning.”
He added that it’s not yet clear whether greater exposure to AI is beneficial or harmful, but there is a risk that highly paid and educated women could be excluded from economic opportunities related to AI, potentially reinforcing existing gender divides.
Job quality and the future of work
The research also examines how AI exposure relates to job quality, particularly in precarious work. Occupations with the highest exposure to large language models tend to be higher quality, less precarious jobs. Dr. Jetha noted, “occupations characterized by higher quality and less precariousness are those where large language models can play a more significant role.”
However, he cautioned that as AI continues to advance, it could eventually impact a broader range of occupations, including those that have historically been insulated from technological change.
Need for literacy and equity
As AI becomes more embedded in the workplace, Dr. Jetha stressed the importance of building AI literacy and ensuring equitable access to training. He emphasized that understanding how AI is developed and implemented is crucial for identifying both opportunities and barriers for different groups of workers.
He also addressed concerns about workplace surveillance and job quality, noting that increased monitoring and data collection can be a source of stress for workers.
Dr. Jetha concluded by highlighting the need for ongoing research to better understand the work and health implications of AI. He said, “this research is necessary to build an evidence base that can be used to protect workers most affected by AI and promote greater equity in a changing labor market.”
