They certainly succeed at protecting their industries when they can’t be replaced, but there really isn’t a remedy for an employer who is willing to not have a workforce.
As to what you are required to support...
No he didn't. He said the unions are obsolete, not the trades.
Then, once the job's done, you want that person off your payroll and out of your life. You don't care too much about the cost of labor, you just need it done right the first time. I can imagine a craft union being suitable for providing access to that kind of labor.
But driving cars and trucks around... yeah, no, that's a robot's job, sorry.
Also, without blacksmiths, where am I going to take my plate shield armor? I need it for ren faire.
SilverElfin•2h ago