As the world faces rapid technological advancements, demographic shifts, and a growing emphasis on green energy, the global labor market is evolving faster than ever. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 provides a comprehensive outlook on these trends, offering both opportunities and challenges for developing economies like Trinidad and Tobago (TT). For TT, the transformation in the workforce is a call to action—one that requires deep reforms in education, training, and reskilling to ensure the nation’s labor force remains competitive and adaptable in an increasingly tech-driven world.
The report highlights a growing demand for skills in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, renewable energy, and digital literacy. Unfortunately, TT’s educational infrastructure remains relatively traditional, with limited focus on the technical and creative skills essential for emerging industries. Addressing this gap is not only crucial for the nation’s future economic growth but also for ensuring the population can compete in a digital-first global economy.
One of the most critical steps in preparing TT’s workforce for the future is reforming its education system. Primary and secondary schools must evolve to meet the demands of the 21st century, incorporating subjects like coding, robotics, and environmental science into their curricula. Introducing these subjects will lay the foundation for a tech-savvy and innovative generation ready to take on the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Tertiary institutions, too, must adapt their programs to better align with the needs of the job market. Partnerships between universities, industries, and the government should prioritize high-demand fields such as AI, green technology, big data, and cybersecurity. These initiatives will not only improve the employability of graduates but will also help TT establish itself as a leader in emerging industries.
In addition to reforming formal education, Trinidad and Tobago must embrace the concept of lifelong learning. With a large proportion of today’s skills likely to become obsolete by 2030, the government must create pathways for workers to continuously upgrade their skills. Incentives for online learning platforms, certification programs, and professional development courses will be essential in providing workers with the tools they need to remain competitive.
Special attention must be given to underserved communities, ensuring that everyone has access to learning opportunities regardless of location or socioeconomic status. To achieve this, significant investments are needed in infrastructure—particularly broadband internet connectivity in rural areas—as well as in teacher training to ensure educators are equipped to teach new and emerging skills.
As the demand for renewable energy grows globally, Trinidad and Tobago has a unique opportunity to shift away from its dependence on fossil fuels. By fostering expertise in solar energy, wind power, and green technologies, TT can create new job opportunities that align with global trends. The country could become a regional leader in renewable energy, developing specialized training programs for roles such as solar panel installation, environmental engineering, and energy management.
Similarly, the growing field of digital services presents significant potential for TT’s workforce. Training in areas like AI, data science, and blockchain could help the nation become a hub for tech innovation, drawing investments and creating high-paying, future-proof jobs.
Despite these opportunities, the transition to a new economy will not be without its challenges. As automation and AI replace traditional jobs, many workers in clerical roles, administrative positions, and low-skilled sectors may face job displacement. The World Economic Forum estimates that by 2030, 39 percent of current skill sets will be outdated, leaving many workers vulnerable to economic instability.
To mitigate this risk, retraining must become a national priority. Government initiatives, alongside public-private partnerships, should focus on quickly transitioning workers from declining industries—such as clerical jobs and fossil fuel extraction—into roles in growing fields. For instance, workers in the oil and gas sector could be reskilled for positions in the renewable energy industry, such as solar panel installation or environmental consulting.
Community centers across TT could play a critical role in reskilling efforts by becoming local learning hubs. These centers should be equipped with digital tools and online learning resources, enabling individuals to access training programs close to home. Furthermore, trade unions must evolve to take on a more active role in workforce transformation. Traditionally focused on wages and working conditions, unions must now advocate for reskilling programs, ensuring that workers are equipped with the skills needed for emerging job markets.
The role of Parliament in this transition is crucial. Forward-thinking legislation must be enacted to create a supportive environment for lifelong learning and workforce adaptability. Laws that require companies to allocate a portion of their revenue to employee reskilling, combined with tax incentives for compliance, could provide a powerful financial incentive for businesses to invest in their workforce.
Additionally, the government should work to create a national labor observatory that tracks employment trends, skills gaps, and emerging opportunities. This data will be vital in shaping policies and guiding public and private sector investments in workforce development.
Finally, public engagement is essential in preparing the nation for the future of work. Awareness campaigns should emphasize the importance of adaptability and resilience, encouraging TT’s citizens to embrace new opportunities in emerging industries. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, Trinidad and Tobago can position itself as a competitive player in the global economy, while ensuring that all workers have the tools to thrive in the evolving job market.
The future of work in Trinidad and Tobago presents both a challenge and an opportunity. By prioritizing education reform, reskilling initiatives, and green energy development, TT can harness global shifts to build a more resilient and dynamic economy. However, without bold action today, the country risks falling behind. By embracing change and investing in its people, Trinidad and Tobago can secure a prosperous and sustainable future for generations to come.