Technology attracts young workers to industries facing labor shortages, study finds

Samsara recently released its State of Connected Operations Report, Building for the Next Generation: Workforce Trends in Physical Operations. The report includes insights from 1,550 physical operations leaders across seven countries. It reveals how these leaders are transforming their workplaces to meet the demands of a new generation while creating safer and more efficient organizations. The research finds that technology is central to their strategy and that investments are paying off.

“It’s no secret, the labor market can be tough in industries like transportation, construction, and field services but we’re seeing technology make a real difference in how younger talent views their career opportunities,” Meagen Eisenberg, chief marketing officer at Samsara, said. “Our research shows that technology is not only making these industries more attractive but also helping retain workers for the long term. The ROI is impressive, and yet, there’s so much potential ahead as many are at the beginning of their digital transformation.”

Modern technology tools a must-have for the workforce

Most respondents (85%) said that modern technology tools have made their industries more desirable to younger workers. Many also reported increased employee morale, improved productivity, and lower turnover. Survey respondents ranked cameras as the top technology for enhancing recruitment and retention. Automation and robotics closely followed, which Samsara said reflects younger workers' emphasis on job safety and their comfort with technology that improves safety.

Despite investments, many workers aren’t yet satisfied. 71% of respondents reported frequently hearing feedback about the need for greater investments in safety and security. To address this, nearly all (99%) planned to increase investments in workforce safety and security technologies over the next five years, with many prioritizing IoT-enabled safety devices, automation that reduces worker exposure to hazards, and predictive safety analytics.

See also: Samsara's Super Bowl commercial highlights AI-powered road safety

Technology investments drive financial returns, new efficiencies

Leaders stated their technology strategies drive significant financial benefits, as 41% reported that their safety-focused technology investments have saved their organization more than $1 million. A resounding 99% said that technology has empowered the workforce to shift their focus toward higher-value tasks, including preventative maintenance, safety checks, and valuable upskilling opportunities. The research also revealed widespread adoption of e-learning platforms, with 85% of organizations already using these tools. Leaders cited employee retention as the top benefit, which signals a better employee experience and reduced turnover costs.