What Is Skilled Labor?

Skilled laborers have more control over their work conditions because they are more difficult to replace.

Skilled labor refers to any occupation that typically requires a fair amount of training over a period of time. Skilled labor occupations contribute significantly to the economy. There is a direct correlation between increased skilled labor and the expansion of human capital (a greater efficiency of individuals through education).

Significance of Skilled Labor

Skilled labor is more expensive than unskilled labor, because an investment in knowledge (education) is needed to foster skilled labor. Skilled laborers, therefore, have more control over their job conditions because they are more difficult to replace. Technology, namely automation and computing, increases the demand for skilled labor by replacing unskilled workers.

Examples of Skilled Labor

Common skilled labor titles include (but are not limited to) construction worker, plumber, electrician, mechanic, mason, commercial driver, carpenter, technician, painter and ironworker. In the age of computing technology, skilled occupations have multiplied, because learning software and changing work practices to compensate takes training time and requires an added investment in knowledge.

Learning the Skill

Becoming a skilled laborer requires education. Skills can be learned on-the-job or in a master-apprentice environment. Generally, increased specialization demands better pay. Because skilled laborers are charged to manage their own duties, they may have a greater sense of pride in what they do, as opposed to unskilled workers, who merely take orders and are often treated unfairly.

References

• "A Social History of American Technology"; Ruth Schwartz Cowan; 1997
• Black Flag: Technology, Capitalism and Anarchism

Resources

• CareerBuilder.com