Will AI replace Footwear and leather working trades?

Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 75 official task statements scored for Footwear and leather working trades (United Kingdom, SOC 5412), 1% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 6 out of 100 (range 4–11, band: minimal). That is a statement about tasks, not about headcount: this measures what AI could do, not whether any employer adopts it, whether the law allows it, or whether doing the routine parts faster creates more demand for the human parts. Figures are from release 2026-q4.1.

Which tasks in “Footwear and leather working trades” can AI already do?

The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Report any shortages or quality issues with selected materials” (75/100, high); “Read prescriptions or specifications to establish the type of product to be made” (59/100, partial); “Offer quotes for custom footwear and repairs” (43/100, partial). Each score comes from five published 0–4 ratings turned into a number by a published formula, and each carries the model's one-sentence reason on the page.

Which tasks in “Footwear and leather working trades” stay human?

About 94% of this job's task weight sits in work that scores low for AI exposure. The lowest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Produce and/or repair saddlery products that meet both specification and customer requirements” (0/100, minimal); “Wax and polish leather bodywork for protection and lustre” (0/100, minimal); “Re-sew seams, and replace handles and linings of suitcases or handbags” (0/100, minimal). Low scores usually mean the task needs a body in a room, a legally accountable human, or trust built in real time. Those are the three things the scoring rubric treats as gates rather than obstacles.

What should someone working in “Footwear and leather working trades” do about AI?

Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 1% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 94% is not. The practical move is to spend more of your week on the tasks that score low, the ones above, and to get fluent at directing AI through the tasks that score high, because those are the parts that change whether or not you are ready for them. This page does not predict your job, and nothing here is career advice tailored to you: the score describes the occupation, not the person.

How is the AI exposure score for Footwear and leather working trades calculated?

Each official task statement for the occupation is rated on five published 0–4 dimensions (output replicability, physical embodiment, licensed accountability, real-time human trust, and data availability) by claude-opus-5 using scoring prompt task_scoring_v1.0. The model never writes the score; a published formula turns the five ratings into a 0–100 number, so every score can be recomputed by hand. The occupation figure is the importance-weighted mean across 75 scored tasks. The prompt, the rubric, the formula and the full dataset are published at https://futureproof.collab365.com/method and https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1 under CC BY 4.0.

UK dataswitch to US

Footwear and leather working trades

constructing leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools, placing shoes on lasts to remove soles and heels using knives or pliers and replacing buckles, laces, zips or straps. If that's your week, this page is about your job.

The honest answer

AI changes the edges of this job, not the middle: constructing leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools is work software can't reach.

Your move: what you can actually do about this ↓

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI: 1%
changing shape: 5%
staying human: 94%

These bars are tasks changing hands, not people being counted out. The ledger below shows which.

Whole-job exposure score 6 out of 100 (4–11 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, across 75 scored tasks. The number is the support for the sentence above it, not a headline about anyone’s future.

How we know this

What is measured: Every published task statement for footwear and leather working trades is rated on five dimensions: can a model produce the output, does the work need a body in a room, does it need a legally accountable person, does it depend on a person being trusted in the moment, and how much data exists. A published formula turns those five ratings into the score; the model never writes the number.

How the bar is built: Each task’s share of the bar is its published importance weight, so a task you do all day counts for more than one you do twice a year.

Release: 2026-q4.1, scores computed 2026-08-04. Read the full method.

What shifts is reporting any shortages or quality issues with selected materials: the overhead at the edges, not the middle you trained for.

Your week, as this page understands it

Footwear and leather working trades make and repair shoes, cut out, make up, sew, decorate and finish leather and leather substitute goods other than garments. The job title says “footwear” or “leather working trades”: officially one job, two names. The real job is the part underneath: constructing leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools. That is the thing someone has to be right about.

The exposed part of this job is specific, and we won’t pretend it is coming back. But footwear and leather working trades is not one task. It is 75 scored ones, and they are nowhere near equally exposed. The most durable of them, on this evidence, is constructing leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools, and the ledger below shows exactly why.

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI: 1%
changing shape: 5%
staying human: 94%

These bars are tasks changing hands, not people being counted out. The ledger below shows which.

How we know this

How the bar is built: Each task’s share of the bar is its published importance weight, so a task you do all day counts for more than one you do twice a year.

Release: 2026-q4.1, scores computed 2026-08-04. Read the full method.

Your job, task by task

These are the official task statements for this occupation, in plain English, sorted by what the evidence says is happening to each one. The official wording sits under every line so you can check the rewrite against it.

19 of this occupation's scored task statements carry a score that was measured under a different occupation's context, because the statement is shared between jobs and has only been scored once so far. Each one names the occupation it was measured under in the free routes below; none is presented as a measurement for this job.
Task clusters are not derived in this release, so the task-cluster field is empty and no Collab365 Space routing is attached to this occupation yet.

Shifting to AI

1 task

Tasks today’s tools can already do most of. This is the part we will not soften: where these rows are the bulk of your week, the week changes.

Reporting any shortages or quality issues with selected materials
This is reading one thing and writing another: any shortages in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 60 · 5412/02
Source: “Report any shortages or quality issues with selected materials.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 75 out of 100 (68–82 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Reporting shortages and material problems is straightforward reporting once they have been noticed.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Changing shape

4 tasks

Tasks where the machine takes the producing and a person keeps the checking, the deciding, or the answering-for-it. For most jobs this is the biggest group, and it is where "transformation, not termination" is literally visible.

Reading prescriptions or specifications to establish the type of product to be made
The software now makes the first pass at prescriptions, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 65 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Read prescriptions or specifications to establish the type of product to be made.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 59 out of 100 (52–66 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Here a prescription is a footwear specification, not a medicine, so reading it to work out what to make is document work software handles well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Estimating the costs of requested products or services
The software now makes the first pass at the costs of requested products, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 65 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Estimate the costs of requested products or services such as custom footwear or footwear repair.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 43 out of 100 (36–50 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Costing a job from materials, time and standard rates is arithmetic that software does reliably.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Offering quotes for custom footwear and repairs
The software now makes the first pass at quotes, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 70 · 5412/01
Source: “Offer quotes for custom footwear and repairs.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 43 out of 100 (36–50 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Pricing a repair or bespoke job from known materials and hours is calculation software handles well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Designing accessories like bags and wallets
The software now makes the first pass at accessories like bags, but the deciding part still needs a person. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 70 · 5412/02
Source: “Design accessories like bags and wallets.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 43 out of 100 (36–50 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Design software can generate strong ideas for bags and wallets, but turning them into makeable patterns needs the craftsperson.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Staying human

70 tasks

Tasks that stay with a person, because they happen in the physical world, because the rules need someone accountable, or because the value is that a specific person does them.

Constructing leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools
This work happens in the physical world: leather products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 90 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Construct leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Building a leather product is craft work done by hand with real tools and materials.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Replacing soles, heels and other parts of footwear using sewing, buffing and other shoe repair machines, materials and equipment
This work happens in the physical world: soles, heels and other parts of footwear, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Replace soles, heels, and other parts of footwear using sewing, buffing, and other shoe repair machines, materials, and equipment.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Replacing soles and heels on machines is physical repair work at the bench.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Affixing shoe uppers to lasts
This work happens in the physical world: shoe uppers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Affix shoe uppers to lasts.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Pulling and fixing an upper onto a last is skilled hand work at the bench.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Finish boots or shoes by trimming the edges of new soles and heels to shape
This work happens in the physical world: boots, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Finish boots or shoes by trimming the edges of new soles and heels to shape.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Trimming soles and heels to shape is done by hand on the finished shoe.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Inspecting articles for defects
This work happens in the physical world: articles, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Inspect articles for defects.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (6–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Automated vision can flag some defects, but the article still has to be presented and handled.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

Show the other 65 tasks

Discussing with customers the repairs
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles customers the repairs and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 70 · 5412/01
Source: “Discuss with customers the repairs needed.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 31 out of 100 (24–38 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Customers need to trust the person telling them what their car needs, though the estimate itself can be prepared.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 3/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Recording customer requirements for cut and made-to-measure dimensions
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customer requirements, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/02
Source: “Record customer requirements for cut and made-to-measure dimensions.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 29 out of 100 (22–36 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Writing down measurements is simple record work, though someone must take the measurements in person.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Proposing and agreeing design specifications with customers
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles design specifications and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 60 · 5412/02
Source: “Propose and agree design specifications with customers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 26 out of 100 (19–33 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Specifications can be drafted quickly, but agreeing a bespoke design usually happens in conversation with the customer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Creating necessary patterns for leather work and upholstery
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: necessary patterns, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/02
Source: “Create necessary patterns for leather work and upholstery.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 25 out of 100 (18–32 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Pattern shapes can be worked out digitally, though getting them right usually means fitting them to the actual piece.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Selecting appropriate leathers, threads, fittings and materials for each project
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: appropriate leathers, threads, fittings and materials, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/02
Source: “Select appropriate leathers, threads, fittings, and materials for each project.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 25 out of 100 (18–32 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Material choices are partly documented, but judging a hide's suitability comes from handling it.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Selecting leather, materials and fittings for bespoke bridle and saddle specifications
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: leather, materials and fittings, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 50 · 5412/02
Source: “Select leather, materials, and fittings for bespoke bridle and saddle specifications.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 25 out of 100 (18–32 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Standard material lists exist, but choosing leather for a bespoke saddle depends on handling the hide.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Assessing repair requests for bespoke garments and suggest remedies for issues like wear or poor stitching
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: repair requests, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/02
Source: “Assess repair requests for bespoke garments and suggest remedies for issues like wear or poor stitching.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 21 out of 100 (14–28 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Common faults and remedies are well known, but judging wear and stitching quality means examining the garment.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Discussing with customers the type of footwear to be made
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers the type of footwear, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Discuss with customers the type of footwear to be made, recommending details such as leather quality.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 18 out of 100 (11–25 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Advice on leather choices can be drafted, but customers usually want to feel samples and talk it through.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Inspecting the completed footwear for quality and adherence to company specifications
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the completed footwear, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01
Source: “Inspect the completed footwear for quality and adherence to company specifications.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (6–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Vision systems can flag defects, but final quality checks still mean handling the actual shoe.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Examining finished leather products to assess their quality
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: finished leather products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Examine finished leather products to assess their quality.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (6–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Assessing leather quality relies on handling the goods and feeling the finish.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Checking the quality of finished leather goods
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the quality of finished leather goods, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/02
Source: “Check the quality of finished leather goods.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (6–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Quality checks on finished leather goods depend on handling and inspecting the real item.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Inspecting finished saddlery product against quality standards and bespoke specification
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: finished saddlery product against quality standards, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/02
Source: “Inspect finished saddlery product against quality standards and bespoke specification.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (6–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Checking a finished saddle against the order means examining the actual product closely.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Receiving payments for merchandise or services
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: payments, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 50 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Receive payments for merchandise or services.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 12 out of 100 (5–19 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Payment systems handle the money, but taking payment at a counter needs someone standing there.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Selecting, using, maintaining and storing equipment, tools and materials appropriately
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: equipment, tools and materials, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01
Source: “Select, use, maintain, and store equipment, tools, and materials appropriately.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 10 out of 100 (3–17 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Choosing tools can be advised on, but using, maintaining and storing leather-working equipment is hands-on bench work.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Minimizing hazards and risks in the workplace through the application of safe working practices
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: hazards, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 5412/01
Source: “Minimize hazards and risks in the workplace through the application of safe working practices, including the use of personal protective equipment.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 10 out of 100 (3–17 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Wearing protective equipment and keeping the workshop safe happens with a body in the room, though software can write the safe-working guidance.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Selling footwear products to customers
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: footwear products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/01
Source: “Sell footwear products to customers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 7 out of 100 (0–14 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Shop selling depends on serving a customer in person and fitting the product to them.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Servicing machinery to ensure safety and reliability
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: machinery, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 5412/01
Source: “Service machinery to ensure safety and reliability.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 6 out of 100 (0–13 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Servicing machinery changes the physical state of the machine, so it needs a person with tools rather than software.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Identifying faults during the production process that may lead to saddle and bridle fitting problems
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: faults during the production process, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 50 · 5412/02
Source: “Identify faults during the production process that may lead to saddle and bridle fitting problems.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 6 out of 100 (0–13 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Spotting faults that will later affect fit relies on the maker's eye and hands during the work.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Cutting leather or fabric pieces from a pattern for the 'upper' section
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: leather, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 85 · 5412/01
Source: “Cut leather or fabric pieces from a pattern for the 'upper' section.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Cutting leather to a pattern needs hands on the hide, judging its stretch and flaws.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Aligning parts, fasteners or trimmings according to seams, edges or markings
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: parts, fasteners or trimmings, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Align parts, fasteners, or trimmings according to seams, edges, or markings.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Lining up parts and trimmings on the fabric is done by hand and eye.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Cutting out parts following patterns or outlines using scissors
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: parts following patterns, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Cut out parts following patterns or outlines using scissors.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Cutting out parts with scissors is straightforward hand work on the material.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Drilling or punching holes for attaching hardware
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: holes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Drill or punch holes for attaching hardware.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Drilling and punching holes is done with the tool in hand.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Finishing the shoe
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the shoe, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01
Source: “Finish the shoe by polishing, inserting the insole, lacing, and adding final touches.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Polishing, lacing and finishing a shoe by hand cannot be done from a computer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Moulding uppers into their final shape on a wooden or metal mould called a 'last'
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: uppers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01
Source: “Mould uppers into their final shape on a wooden or metal mould called a 'last'.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Shaping an upper over a last is a hands-on forming job at the workbench.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Repairing and/or rework leather/leather goods
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: and/or rework leather/leather goods, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Repair and/or rework leather/leather goods.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Repairing leather goods means working directly on the item with tools.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Replacing worn out soles and heels
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: worn out soles, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01
Source: “Replace worn out soles and heels.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Fitting new soles and heels is manual repair work on the customer's shoes.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Sewing soles and heels to shoes
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: soles, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Sew soles and heels to shoes.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Stitching soles and heels onto shoes is machine work guided by a person's hands.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Tracing patterns onto materials to be cut out
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: patterns, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 80 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Trace patterns onto materials to be cut out.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Tracing a pattern onto material is hand work on the cloth.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Attaching accessories or ornamentation to decorate or protecting products
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: accessories, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Attach accessories or ornamentation to decorate or protect products.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Fixing decorative or protective fittings onto a product is hand assembly work.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Cutting patterns and material according to these patterns using measuring instruments and scissors
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: patterns, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01
Source: “Cut patterns and material according to these patterns using measuring instruments and scissors.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Cutting cloth to a pattern is done with scissors in hand.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Inserting or attaching metal rings
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: metal rings, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Insert or attach metal rings, handles, and buckles in prepared holes.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Fitting rings, handles and buckles into prepared holes is manual assembly.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Inspecting products to ensure they meet specifications
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01
Source: “Inspect products to ensure they meet specifications.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Checking that delivered products match the specification means physically examining them.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Measuring customers for fit of footwear
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Measure customers for fit of footwear.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Measuring someone's feet accurately means having that person physically in front of you.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Placing shoes on lasts to remove soles and heels using knives or pliers
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: shoes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Place shoes on lasts to remove soles and heels using knives or pliers.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Stripping soles and heels off with knives and pliers is hand work on the shoe.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Replacing buckles, laces, zips or straps
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: buckles, laces, zips or straps, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01
Source: “Replace buckles, laces, zips or straps.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Swapping fastenings means unpicking and resewing by hand.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Sanding shoe heels on a buffing wheel for smoothness
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: shoe heels, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Sand shoe heels on a buffing wheel for smoothness.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Sanding a heel on a buffing wheel is machine work controlled directly by hand.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Stitching pieces of leather together by hand or machine
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: pieces of leather together, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Stitch pieces of leather together by hand or machine.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Stitching leather pieces together is a hand or machine skill performed on the material.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Trim heels to shape
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: heels, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Trim heels to shape.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Trimming a heel to its final shape is done by hand with a cutting tool.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Cleaning and polishing shoes
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: shoes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Clean and polish shoes.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Cleaning and polishing shoes is physical work on the item itself.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Dyeing shoes and boots
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: shoes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01
Source: “Dye shoes and boots.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Applying dye to footwear is a hands-on finishing job.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Inserting and positioning padding cushioning or linings
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: linings, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Insert and position padding, cushioning, or linings.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Fitting padding and linings inside a shoe needs fingers inside the shoe.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Maintaining equipment to ensure efficient footwear production
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: equipment, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01
Source: “Maintain equipment to ensure efficient footwear production.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Servicing production machinery means opening it up and working on the parts.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Measuring customers, using tape measures and recording measurements
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: customers, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Measure customers, using tape measures, and record measurements.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Measuring a person requires being with them, tape in hand.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Positioning or outlining patterns on workpieces
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: patterns, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Position or outline patterns on workpieces.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Laying out and marking patterns onto leather is done by hand on the hide.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Replacing defective components or parts using hand tools and precision instruments
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: defective components, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Replace defective components or parts using hand tools and precision instruments.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Replacing parts with hand tools and precision instruments is physical work.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Sharpening shoe repair tools to ensure quality craftsmanship
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: shoe repair tools, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01
Source: “Sharpen shoe repair tools to ensure quality craftsmanship.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Sharpening tools is a manual skill judged by feel and edge.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Staining soles, heels and edges before waxing and buffing
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: soles, heels and edges before waxing, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01
Source: “Stain soles, heels and edges before waxing and buffing.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Staining and waxing edges is a finishing job applied by hand.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Stretching shoes by dampening and inserting parts
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: shoes, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Stretch shoes by dampening and inserting parts, using an adjustable stretcher.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Stretching a shoe on a mechanical stretcher is physical work on the actual shoe.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Painting leather to add decorations or patterns
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: leather, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Paint leather to add decorations or patterns.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Painting decoration onto leather is applied by hand to the piece.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Staining leather to alter its colour
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: leather, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Stain leather to alter its colour.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Staining leather is a physical process.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Engraving leather to add detailed decorations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: leather, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Engrave leather to add detailed decorations.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Engraving leather is a hand tooling skill performed on the material.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Making and repairing orthopaedic or therapeutic footwear according to doctors' prescriptions
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: orthopaedic, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Make and repair orthopaedic or therapeutic footwear according to doctors' prescriptions.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Making prescribed orthopaedic footwear is craft work built to a clinician's instructions by hand.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Packaging footwear for delivery
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: footwear, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/01
Source: “Package footwear for delivery.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Boxing and wrapping footwear for despatch is physical handling.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Preparing inserts, heel pads and lifts from casts of customers' feet
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: inserts, heel pads and lifts, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Prepare inserts, heel pads, and lifts from casts of customers' feet.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Building insoles and lifts from foot casts is hands-on work with real moulds and materials.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Soaking leather to prepare for further processing
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: leather, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Soak leather to prepare for further processing.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Soaking hides is a physical preparation step in the workshop.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Stamping products with information, dates using hand stamps or automatic stamping machines
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 50 · 5412/01, 5412/02
Source: “Stamp products with information such as dates using hand stamps or automatic stamping machines.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Stamping information onto products means operating the stamp on each item.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Machining sew leather components
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: sew leather components, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 75 · 5412/02
Source: “Machine sew leather components as required.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Machine sewing leather is guided by hand and eye at the machine.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Contributing to leather finishing and drying of hides
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: leather, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/02
Source: “Contribute to leather finishing and drying of hides.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Finishing and drying hides is wet, physical processing work in the tannery.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Performing press cutting as part of leather cutting operations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: press, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/02
Source: “Perform press cutting as part of leather cutting operations.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Press cutting is operating a cutting machine on real hides.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Polishing final coats on leather products to specified finishes for durability
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: final coats, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/02
Source: “Polish final coats on leather products to specified finishes for durability.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Polishing final coats to a set finish is applied by hand to each piece.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Using patterns to measure and cut pieces of leather
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: patterns, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 70 · 5412/02
Source: “Use patterns to measure and cut pieces of leather.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Measuring and cutting leather to patterns is hand work on the hide.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Preparing and testing hand tools
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: hand tools, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 65 · 5412/02
Source: “Prepare and test hand tools, sewing machines, and bench splitters for bespoke component formation.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Setting up and testing hand tools and machines is done physically at the bench.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Resewing seams and replacing handles and linings of suitcases or handbags
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: seams, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/02
Source: “Re-sew seams, and replace handles and linings of suitcases or handbags.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Re-sewing seams and replacing handles is repair work done by hand on the item.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Waxing and polishing leather bodywork for protection and lustre
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: leather bodywork, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 60 · 5412/02
Source: “Wax and polish leather bodywork for protection and lustre.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Waxing and polishing leather bodywork is applied physically to the surface.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Producing and/or repairing saddlery products that meet both specification and customer requirements
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: and/or repairing saddlery products, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 50 · 5412/02
Source: “Produce and/or repair saddlery products that meet both specification and customer requirements.” (UK task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world.
The rating behind it: Making and repairing saddlery is skilled hand craft on real leather and fittings.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 1/4.

What this job pays, and how many people do it

Median pay: £25,400a year, before tax, the middle of the range, so half earn more and half earn less.ashe-t14, 2025 · ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025)Provisional, because the ONS revises this figure in the autumn.
How we know this
Source: ashe-t14
Reference period: ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025)
Rounding: Shown to the nearest £100. The exact published figure is in the downloadable dataset. We do not render pounds the survey cannot support.
People doing this job: 7,700in the UK, 2026.nomis-aps · Apr 2025-Mar 2026 (latest APS 12-month period)This headcount comes from a survey, not a census, so treat it as a good estimate rather than an exact count.

What is deliberately not here: a forecast of how many of these jobs exist in ten years. Where an official projection exists for a market we publish it with its vintage; where it does not, we leave the space empty rather than borrow the other country’s number.

Why this is shifting

The reason is boringly specific. Most of what is shifting here is reading one thing and writing another: any shortages in, a record out. The rows above are exactly that shape: reporting any shortages or quality issues with selected materials and reading prescriptions or specifications to establish the type of product to be made. What it cannot do is be there in the room, and that is still where leather products get done. Which is why this page talks about your tasks changing, not your job ending.

Your move

Over a pint: what I’d tell you if you were my friend

Start with what does not change: constructing leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools is the middle of this job, and the evidence on this page says it stays with a person.

So, given all that: 1% of this job's task weight sits in rows the software is already learning, 5% in rows that change shape rather than disappear, and 94% in rows it is nowhere near. That is the position, measured across 75 scored tasks. It is not a forecast about you.

So the thing worth your attention is not the job going away. It is the layer around it. Reporting any shortages or quality issues with selected materials is the part turning into software, and being the person who understands that layer is worth money.

This week: one thing

Ask the one question. Find whoever is bringing new software into your workplace (the manager, the office, whoever runs the system) and ask them what it is meant to do to any shortages, and what it is not meant to touch. Ten minutes, this week, before anyone decides it for you.

What you end up holding: a straight answer about what is actually being rolled out, and when
How long it takes: ten minutes

If there’s nobody obvious to ask, or you’d rather not ask your manager: Put the same question to your union rep, your shift lead or the person who has been there longest, in person, over a break. Same ten minutes, same answer, and you will usually get a straighter one. Write down what they say. The note is the artifact, and it tells you whether leather products are in scope or not. Nothing to log into, no licence needed.

Over the next 90 days

Get inside the tool rollout rather than waiting for it. Over the next ninety days, ask to be in the group that tests, checks or signs off whatever new system arrives near reading prescriptions or specifications to establish the type of product to be made. It is usually an unglamorous seat that nobody fights for, and it is the one that decides how the software is used on your job rather than to it.

Over the next 12 months

On this evidence I would not retrain out of this job, and I will say that plainly rather than hedge it. The task list here is dominated by work that stays with a person. What I would do with a year is get formally recognised for the layer around it (the systems, the compliance, the planning), so you are the one who understands the software instead of the one it is done to. Before you pay for anything, spend an hour with National Careers Service. It is free and government-funded, and it is listed below with the rest of the free routes.

The roads out of here, and why I am not sending you down them

I looked at the obvious moves out of this job, and here is what I found.

I checked the 12 nearest UK occupations to footwear and leather working trades (nearest by the work that AI is not taking, not by job title), and none of them survived. The closest was tailors and dressmakers: only about 6% of its durable work is work you already do. And on the numbers you do not need one. This job scores 6/100 here, with only 1% of the task list in the top band, and “construct leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools” is not work that hands over cleanly. None of them beats deepening what you already have.

How that was checked: this job was compared against all 412 UK occupations in this release on their official task statements, and the 12 nearest were examined one by one. A move that turns on an industry, an employer or a qualification rather than on the work itself will not show up in a check like that. And this release carries no licence register, so anything you are weighing needs that looked up separately.

3 moves I checked and rejected

These are the obvious-looking jumps. They are here with their reasons rather than quietly dropped, because the ones that fail are worth knowing about. It is one less thing to turn over at night.

Tailors and dressmakers
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “measure customers, using tape measures, and record measurements”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 6% of the work in that job the software is not taking.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 6% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step.
Look at that job’s page anyway →
Textiles, garments and related trades n.e.c.
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “trace patterns onto materials to be cut out”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 6% of the work in that job the software is not taking.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 6% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step.
Look at that job’s page anyway →
Upholsterers
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour because one of your tasks is on their list in the same words: “cut patterns and material according to these patterns using measuring instruments and scissors”. Across the whole of both lists that adds up to about 6% of the work in that job the software is not taking.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 6% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step.
Look at that job’s page anyway →

What I’d stop worrying about

A friend tells you what not to spend fear on. This is that list.

The headline number you read somewhere
The big “X% of jobs” figures are about the whole economy, not about you. The number that describes your job is on this page: 1% of its task weight, across 75 scored tasks. Every row behind it is printed above with the source. Check ours; ignore theirs.
The headlines about your trade disappearing
They are usually about the technology, not the timetable. Changes to work like constructing leather products according to specifications using appropriate tools arrive through rules, insurance and money, slowly and visibly. This page tracks the task evidence and will move when it moves.
Retraining out of a job that is holding up
On this evidence I would not spend money leaving. Spend it on the layer around the job instead: the tools, the paperwork, the planning. That is where the change actually is.
The “obvious” next job everyone suggests
I checked the obvious moves and most of them did not survive. The reasons are printed with the routes above, including the pay and the gate. A move that fails on the numbers is worth knowing about so you can stop turning it over at night.

You are reading the United Kingdom figures

The United States splits this work across more than one official group, of which Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers is the closest. The pay and employment figures are not directly comparable, and we do not average them together.

Switch to the United States page →partial match

The other groups this work is counted across:

Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders

In US official statistics this job is counted as Shoe and Leather Workers and Repairers and Shoe Machine Operators and Tenders. Pay is shown separately for each of those groups (medians cannot be averaged together), while the task list and the scores on this page are for this group only.

Your route through this

Where to go next, and what it costs

Free, and complete

The moves above cost nothing. These are the real services that go with them: public, government-funded, and free at the point of use. Nothing on this page is behind an email address or a payment.

In England:
National Careers Service
A free hour with a government-funded careers adviser is worth more than another evening of reading. In England that's the National Careers Service.
Free, government-funded
- Discover your skills and careers (the skills assessment)
In England:
National Careers Service - Find a course
Search what's actually running near you before you spend anything.
Free to search; individual courses vary
In England:
Free courses for jobs (Level 3 qualifications)
A free Level 3 qualification you already qualify for beats a paid course you don't need.
Free for eligible adults
In England:
Skills Bootcamps
Free, up to 16 weeks, and you get a job interview at the end. In England these are Skills Bootcamps - search what's running near you.
Free for eligible adults in England
- Skills Bootcamps - what they are and who can do them (DfE, Skills for Careers)
- Skills Bootcamps - JobHelp (DWP)
In Scotland:
My World of Work (Skills Development Scotland)
In Scotland it's My World of Work, from Skills Development Scotland.
Free, publicly funded
- Skills Development Scotland
In Wales:
Careers Wales
In Wales it's Careers Wales.
Free, Welsh Government-funded
In Northern Ireland:
Careers Service Northern Ireland
In Northern Ireland it's the Careers Service on nidirect.
Free, Department for the Economy-funded

Why there is no community here

Collab365, who build this site, run paid Spaces for a small number of subjects, and none of them is built for this job. We are not going to point you at the nearest one and call it a fit.

So the free services listed on this page are the whole answer, and it is the same answer we would give a friend.

Noted, and thank you. We’ll email you if a Space for footwear / leather working trades launches. Nothing else.

That did not look like an email address, so nothing was saved. Have another go below.

We could not save that. The fault is ours, not yours, and your address was not stored. Please try again later.

No Space for footwear / leather working trades yet. Should there be one?

Collab365 Spaces is built by the same people as this site. We find the problems that AI and automation are creating inside one kind of work, then solve them as short courses, briefings and Blueprints. Each Space is the community too, so the research and the people doing your job are in the same place.

What a Space actually is, in full

Collab365 launches new communities where the need is real. If one for footwear / leather working trades existed, with researched problems, courses and people in the same boat, would you want in?

Your email

We use your email address for one thing: to tell you if a Space for footwear / leather working trades launches. We never sell it, never use it for unrelated marketing, and every email has a one-click unsubscribe. Our privacy policy has the full version.

This unlocks nothing. Every figure, every row and every step on this page is already yours, whether you fill this in or not.

No deadline on any of this. The page will still be here, and the data is refreshed on a published schedule rather than when someone wants a headline.

Questions people ask about this job

Will AI replace Footwear and leather working trades?: Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 75 official task statements scored for Footwear and leather working trades (United Kingdom, SOC 5412), 1% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 6 out of 100 (range 4–11, band: minimal). That is a statement about tasks, not about headcount: this measures what AI could do, not whether any employer adopts it, whether the law allows it, or whether doing the routine parts faster creates more demand for the human parts. Figures are from release 2026-q4.1.
Which tasks in “Footwear and leather working trades” can AI already do?: The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Report any shortages or quality issues with selected materials” (75/100, high); “Read prescriptions or specifications to establish the type of product to be made” (59/100, partial); “Offer quotes for custom footwear and repairs” (43/100, partial). Each score comes from five published 0–4 ratings turned into a number by a published formula, and each carries the model's one-sentence reason on the page.
Which tasks in “Footwear and leather working trades” stay human?: About 94% of this job's task weight sits in work that scores low for AI exposure. The lowest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Produce and/or repair saddlery products that meet both specification and customer requirements” (0/100, minimal); “Wax and polish leather bodywork for protection and lustre” (0/100, minimal); “Re-sew seams, and replace handles and linings of suitcases or handbags” (0/100, minimal). Low scores usually mean the task needs a body in a room, a legally accountable human, or trust built in real time. Those are the three things the scoring rubric treats as gates rather than obstacles.
What should someone working in “Footwear and leather working trades” do about AI?: Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 1% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 94% is not. The practical move is to spend more of your week on the tasks that score low, the ones above, and to get fluent at directing AI through the tasks that score high, because those are the parts that change whether or not you are ready for them. This page does not predict your job, and nothing here is career advice tailored to you: the score describes the occupation, not the person.
How is the AI exposure score for Footwear and leather working trades calculated?: Each official task statement for the occupation is rated on five published 0–4 dimensions (output replicability, physical embodiment, licensed accountability, real-time human trust, and data availability) by claude-opus-5 using scoring prompt task_scoring_v1.0. The model never writes the score; a published formula turns the five ratings into a 0–100 number, so every score can be recomputed by hand. The occupation figure is the importance-weighted mean across 75 scored tasks. The prompt, the rubric, the formula and the full dataset are published at https://futureproof.collab365.com/method and https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1 under CC BY 4.0.

Where these numbers come from

About the data on this page

Provisional, because the ONS revises this figure in the autumn.
This headcount comes from a survey, not a census, so treat it as a good estimate rather than an exact count.
The match between this job and its counterpart in the other country is partial, so the two pages count slightly different groups of people.
19 of this occupation's scored task statements carry a score that was measured under a different occupation's context, because the statement is shared between jobs and has only been scored once so far. Each one names the occupation it was measured under in the free routes below; none is presented as a measurement for this job.
Task clusters are not derived in this release, so the task-cluster field is empty and no Collab365 Space routing is attached to this occupation yet.

Task statements: gaisi-indexProcessing: catalogue-bridge → ssc-relatedness-weighting → task-scoring → score-aggregation
Task weights: gaisi-index (relatedness)
Scores: Rubric task_scoring_v1.0, model claude-opus-5, computed 2026-08-05.
Pay and employment: ashe-t14 (ASHE 2025 provisional (reference April 2025))nomis-aps (Apr 2025-Mar 2026 (latest APS 12-month period))

Figures on this page come from release 2026-q4.1, published 2026-08-05. Every release keeps its own permanent address, so a figure you cite in March is still there, unchanged, in November.

The plain-English wording on this page is assembled directly from the task statements and the published ratings, not written by hand for this occupation. That is why it is specific, and it is also why we say so.

The routes and free resources further up are today’s, not the release’s (last reviewed 2026-08-05). A route is an offer, not a historical fact, so it moves on its own clock.

How we score a job Download this release Look up another job

Using these figures?

Cite this

Everything on this site is published under CC BY 4.0. Quote it, chart it, sell something built on it. Just say where it came from, and cite the dated release rather than the site, so the figure you quote stays checkable.

Plain text

Collab365 (2026). Collab365 Futureproof: task-level AI exposure for US and UK occupations, release 2026-q4.1 (methodVersion 2.0.0, promptVersion task_scoring_v1.0). https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1. Licensed CC BY 4.0. Built with O*NET data (USDOL/ETA, CC BY 4.0); ONS data (Open Government Licence v3.0); GAISI task framework (arXiv:2507.22748, MIT); BLS data (public domain).

BibTeX

@misc{collab365futureproof2026q41,
  title        = {Collab365 Futureproof: task-level AI exposure for US and UK occupations, release 2026-q4.1},
  author       = {{Collab365}},
  year         = {2026},
  url          = {https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1},
  note         = {Release 2026-q4.1, methodVersion 2.0.0, promptVersion task_scoring_v1.0, CC BY 4.0}
}

Permalink

https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1

Data as of release 2026-q4.1, published 2026-08-05. Releases never change after publication; when the figures move, a new dated release is published beside this one and this one stays exactly where it is.