Summer 2026
Artificial intelligence (AI) has been making headlines recently regarding air traffic controller jobs, which are facing severe staffing shortages coupled with long training times. FAA officials have begun exploring how AI could support air traffic management systems, including the evaluation of AI-based tools designed to help controllers identify potential traffic conflicts earlier. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy also noted that the FAA is using AI tools to analyze aviation safety reports as part of broader efforts to modernize air traffic control systems and strengthen safety monitoring.
So, what about the process industry? Could AI eventually replace the console operator role in a refinery, chemical plant, or pipeline operation?
The short answer is no – not anytime soon. However, the role is likely to evolve as AI technologies become more integrated into operations.
Some of the most likely changes include:
- Greater automation of routine monitoring
AI systems will be able to monitor thousands of data points simultaneously and provide earlier warnings than traditional alarm systems.
- Enhanced decision-support tools
Rather than replacing operators, AI will act more like an advanced co-pilot—offering recommendations such as adjusting flow rates or identifying increasing operational risks before they become critical.
- Expanded operational oversight
As AI improves efficiency, operators may be able to oversee a larger number of systems at once, potentially reducing staffing needs over time.
In other words, the job is more likely to evolve than disappear. It becomes less about manually watching gauges and more about interpreting AI generated insights; managing exceptions; and making high-stakes operational decisions.
These are exactly the kinds of critical cognitive skills which COBRA is designed to assess. For more information about implementing COBRA at your facility please contact us at sales@jps-usa.com or visit us at jps-usa.com.
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