Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer on the horizon—it’s here, influencing nearly every job. While many changes will enhance rather than replace human work, AI is reshaping how people prepare for, find, and keep jobs. For vocational rehabilitation (VR), this creates new opportunities to support people with disabilities—and new responsibilities to use AI wisely.
Key Trends Shaping the Future of Work
Across industries, AI is driving changes that VR professionals need to watch closely:
- It’s here to stay – AI is touching almost every industry.
- Jobs are changing – It’s influencing hiring, training, and the skills needed to succeed.
- Human skills matter most – Problem-solving, teamwork, communication, creativity, and critical thinking remain in high demand.
- Tech skills boost competitiveness – Comfort with technology, including STEM skills, will help jobseekers stand out.
- Lifelong learning is essential – Continuous upskilling is key as jobs evolve.
Source: TACQE, “AI and Employment: Emerging Experiences and Resources in Vocational Rehabilitation.”
Why This Matters in VR
The same forces reshaping work are also shaping vocational rehabilitation. As hiring practices, skill demands, and workplace expectations shift, VR professionals have a critical role in supporting people with disabilities find and keep meaningful employment in changing environments.
AI can be part of that strategy by:
- Monitoring progress and flagging potential issues early
- Providing reminders, guidance, and tailored resources
- Analyzing data to see what’s working and what needs adjustment
These opportunities come with risks—such as breaches of confidentiality, bias in recommendations, and over-reliance on automation—which makes ethics and professional judgment more important than ever.
AI as a Partner, with Trust at the Center
AI can speed up tasks, organize data, and offer insights, but it can’t replace the empathy, insight, and trust VR counselors bring. Use AI to enhance—not override—your professional judgment.
Trust is essential. Clients should know their data is secure, understand how the tool works, and stay in control. Follow these principles:
- Confidentiality & Privacy – Use secure tools to protect client data.
- Informed Consent – Explain how you’re using AI and get client approval.
- Bias Awareness – Check for patterns that could limit opportunities.
- Competence – Use only tools you can explain and evaluate.
- Client Autonomy – Clients choose whether to act on AI suggestions.
- Communication – Discuss AI’s role openly with clients.
The Bottom Line
AI can be a valuable ally in promoting long-term, meaningful employment for people with disabilities—when used thoughtfully. By pairing AI’s speed and data power with the human insight and relationship-building skills of VR professionals, we can get the best of both worlds: efficient, informed services that keep people working and thriving.