Skilled technical workers' happiness ensures national comfort

The recent surge in interest towards vocational high schools, especially those focused on semiconductors, is largely a byproduct of the lucrative bonus packages enjoyed by major tech firms like Samsung and SK Hynix. This phenomenon, while beneficial for boosting the pride of technical and skilled workers, is noted to be primarily confined to the semiconductor industry.

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The current distribution method is regrettable, considering the sacrifices and massive financial support from the state that enabled the semiconductor super-cycle. Nevertheless, it is positive that labor unions' struggles have significantly boosted the pride of technical and skilled workers recently.

Historically, the neglect and exploitation of skilled labor have been significant drivers of social conflict and industrial decline. The author points to the UK's past, where unchecked corporate control over unions and the abandonment of apprentices led to widespread hardship, and the US, which prioritized white-collar professions over vocational training, resulting in a dependency on immigration and automation. In contrast, countries like Germany and Japan have historically fostered a culture of respect and investment in their skilled workforce.

Germany's dual system, which combines apprenticeships with a clear path to master craftsman qualifications, and Japan's integration of skilled artisans into corporate management have been cited as successful models. These approaches not only ensured the transfer of skills but also contributed to innovation and quality improvement.

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The commonality between the UK and the US today is that the lack of respect for manufacturing and technical labor has led to decreased production capacity and weakened competitiveness, causing the collapse of middle-class jobs.

The article posits that the current decline in manufacturing prowess and middle-class job stability in the UK and US stems directly from a lack of respect for their technical and skilled workers. This neglect has led to a brain drain and social instability. Even in the era of artificial intelligence, the author stresses that a nation's industrial and economic future hinges on the recognition and value placed upon its human workforce, particularly those in production and technical roles. Neglecting these workers, the article concludes, is akin to accumulating future debt for the nation.

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While pessimism and optimism about labor becoming meaningless in the age of AI are debated, the important thing is that industries and countries without human activity and production are dead and cannot discuss the future.