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A New AI Wave Is Supporting The Trades That Build Our World

Nobody is talking about this: the real AI wave isn't AGI—it's software quietly automating the trades that build America.

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People, judgement and the changing nature of work.AI illustration by KeyNews
The KeyNews take

Why it matters

A contrarian take on AI's near-term impact: rather than chasing superintelligence, the business opportunity lies in practical AI applications for skilled trades and infrastructure—a less glamorous but economically critical sector.

The key facts

9 to know
  1. Focus on AI for trades/skilled labor (plumbing, electrical, construction, HVAC)

  2. Framed as alternative to superintelligence narrative

  3. Published June 2026 (future-dated; flagged for verification)

  4. Author: Joe Toscano (Forbes contributor)

  5. No specific financial data, benchmarks, or company announcements provided

  6. Focus on AI in trades/blue-collar sectors, not superintelligence

  7. Emphasis on software supporting backbone businesses

  8. Strategic commentary on AI deployment priorities

  9. Article is opinion/perspective piece rather than event-driven news

Go to the source

Forbes Innovationforbes.com

Publisher excerpt: The next AI wave isn't superintelligence. It's software running the businesses that are the backbone of our country.
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