5 Vocational Study Paths “Immune” to Automation & AI

According to McKinsey Global Institute (2023), up to 30% of today’s jobs could be automated by 2030.

This raises a common concern: If AI can do everything, will my chosen career disappear?

In reality, there are still professions that are nearly “immune” to AI, because they require uniquely human skills – empathy, creativity, adaptability, and fine motor abilities – that machines cannot yet replicate.

For Vietnamese students planning vocational study abroad, choosing these AI-resistant fields ensures sustainable employment and long-term residency opportunities.

Criteria for Choosing “AI-Resistant” Professions

• Human-to-human interaction: Communication, caregiving, and real-world problem solving.

• Fine motor skills: Dexterity and precision that cannot be fully robotized.

• Creativity & ethics: Human judgment, empathy, and social responsibility.

• Stable demand growth: Backed by official labor market forecasts.

5 Vocational Study Paths “Immune” to AI

1. Nursing & Personal Care

Why AI-Resistant: Healthcare requires empathy, keen observation, and quick reaction – qualities AI cannot replicate.

Job Outlook:

• Canada: Demand projected to grow +23% by 2031, with severe shortages ahead (Job Bank Canada).

  • Reality check: Open nursing positions in Canada grew +219.8% from 2017–2022, now exceeding 28,335 vacancies (Wikipedia – Nursing Shortage in Canada).

• Germany: Facing a shortage of 200,000+ nurses (Bundesagentur für Arbeit, 2023).

 Average Salary:

• Canada: CAD 55,000–70,000/year

• Australia: AUD 65,000–85,000/year

• Germany: EUR 30,000–40,000/year

2. Mechanical Engineering Technician

Why AI-Resistant: Involves hands-on technical skills, creativity, and troubleshooting. AI may assist with design, but not field operations.

Job Outlook:

• Mechanical engineering consistently appears in Germany’s shortage occupation lists (Fachkräfteengpassanalyse – Bundesagentur für Arbeit).

 Average Salary:

• Canada: CAD 50,000–65,000/year

• Australia: AUD 60,000–80,000/year

• Germany: EUR 35,000–45,000/year

3. Electrical & Automation Technician

Why AI-Resistant: Installing and maintaining electrical and robotic systems requires a mix of technical knowledge, manual skills, and situational problem-solving.

Job Outlook:

• Australia: Projected shortage of 32,000 electricians by 2030, potentially 117,000 by 2050 if unaddressed (The Australian – ETU Warning).

• Renewable energy transition will require 17,400 additional electrical technicians by 2030 (Powering Skills Organization).

 Average Salary:

• Canada: CAD 55,000–75,000/year

• Australia: AUD 65,000–85,000/year

• Germany: EUR 36,000–46,000/year

4. Culinary Arts & Kitchen Management

Why AI-Resistant: Culinary work depends on creativity, taste, and teamwork – AI cannot “taste” or recreate restaurant ambiance.

Job Outlook:

• Hospitality and food service remain shortage sectors in both Germany and Australia (Bundesagentur für Arbeit, Australian Hospitality Industry Report).

 Average Salary:

• Canada: CAD 40,000–55,000/year

• Australia: AUD 50,000–70,000/year

• Germany: EUR 28,000–36,000/year

5. Renewable Energy Technician

Why AI-Resistant: Installing and maintaining solar and wind power systems requires specialized technical expertise and field skills.

Job Outlook:

• Australia: Renewable energy jobs could expand from 20,000 today to 60,000–250,000 by 2030, depending on policy scenarios (The Australian – Renewables Jobs Boom).

• Canada & Germany: Both are investing heavily in renewables as part of carbon reduction commitments.

Average Salary:

• Canada: CAD 50,000–68,000/year

• Australia: AUD 60,000–78,000/year

• Germany: EUR 35,000–44,000/year

Conclusion

Choosing an AI-immune profession means more than just job security – it provides peace of mind, sustainable career prospects, and higher chances of permanent residency in developed countries.

For students planning vocational study in Canada, Australia, or Germany, these 5 fields represent the top choices for the next 10–20 years.