Industrial production was transformed by steam power in the nineteenth century, electricity in the early twentieth century, and automation in the 1970s. These waves of technological advancement did not reduce overall employment, however. Although the number of manufacturing jobs decreased, new jobs emerged and the demand for new skills grew. Today, another workforce transformation is on the horizon as manufacturing experiences a fourth wave of technological advancement: the rise of new digital industrial technologies that are collectively known as Industry 4.0.

Even in an era in which people are accustomed to rapid technological advancement, robots arouse unusual curiosity and strong emotion.

As trucks have become more advanced, transportations companies are increasingly in need of technicians with computer skills. But truck operators say negative perceptions of the industry are making it difficult to compete for tech-savvy talent.