The German labor market has been undergoing a major transformation process driven by numerous factors: a rapidly ageing population causes an overall shortage of skilled labor; digitalization and Industry 4.0 in general as well as advancements in automotive technology in particular create a significant skills gap, and the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is contributing to the increasing need for re- and upskilling employees. This research study examines the current challenges and expected future trends in the local labor market based on a two-phase Delphi study conducted in the Heilbronn-Franconia region. A key question addresses the opportunities and associated risks AI technologies present for employers to tackle the shortage of skilled labor. Findings of the Delphi study show a consensus amongst experts that the increasing use of AI technologies will most likely not lead to excessive job losses in the region, nor will it ease the prevailing shortage of skilled labor in the foreseeable future. Currently, AI solutions are in limited use, with further deployment expected in the future, requiring human-computer interactions in an increasing number of job roles. Employers face the challenge of re- and upskilling their workforce to ensure effective use of digital and AI technologies in the workplace.