States ensure workers keep up as AI takes hold in the workplace

States Empower Workers as Jobs Become AI-Driven

As the integration of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace accelerates, states are gearing up to enhance the tech skills of their workers to prevent them from being outpaced by increasingly intelligent machines. Connecticut leads the charge with plans to launch what may become the nation's first Citizens AI Academy. This free online platform will offer curated classes to teach basic skills and provide certificates necessary for employment. Democratic State Senator James Maroney emphasizes the need for continuous learning, underscoring the importance of identifying reliable sources to stay current with technological advancements.

Deciding which skills are essential in an AI-powered world presents challenges for state legislators. Gregory LaBlanc, a professor at the Haas School of Business at Berkeley Law, believes the focus should be on teaching workers how to utilize AI rather than understanding its mechanics. He advocates for complementing AI with human strengths like creativity, empathy, and high-level problem-solving, highlighting that historical technological advancements, such as electricity, did not require everyone to become experts to benefit from them.

Several states, including Connecticut, California, Mississippi, and Maryland, have introduced legislative efforts related to AI education. These range from Connecticut's AI Academy concept to working groups examining safe AI implementation in schools. Although some proposals, like one in Mississippi, failed to pass, others remain under consideration. California's proposed bill advocates for integrating AI literacy into existing school curriculums, ensuring students understand AI principles and can recognize its applications and ethical implications.

The California Chamber of Commerce supports this initiative, aiming to demystify AI and prepare future generations for AI-driven workplaces. Certificates from Connecticut's planned AI Academy will cover a range of skills from digital literacy to interacting with chatbots, equipping individuals to navigate and utilize AI technologies effectively.

AI's Impact on the Job Market

A study by job-search company Indeed in September 2023 revealed that all job listings on its platform included skills that AI could augment or perform. Approximately 20% of the jobs were "highly exposed," meaning AI could handle 80% or more of the listed skills. Meanwhile, nearly 46% of jobs were "moderately exposed," indicating AI could manage 50% to 80% of the skills. Maroney raises concerns about how the skills gap, coupled with limited access to high-speed internet and devices in underserved communities, might exacerbate inequities.

Generative AI has the potential to significantly boost household wealth by nearly $500 billion in the U.S. by 2045. However, it could also widen the wealth gap between Black and white households by $43 billion annually, according to McKinsey and Company. Efforts to close the digital skills gap have traditionally focused on basic computer literacy and internet access, but AI introduces additional complexities, according to Marvin Venay of Bring Tech Home.

Challenges and Recommendations

Venay stresses the importance of education in making AI accessible and trustworthy to the public. Tesha Tramontano-Kelly of CfAL for Digital Inclusion warns against advancing AI training without first ensuring internet accessibility and affordable technology. She notes that a significant portion of the population lacks basic digital tools, which is a crucial first step before delving into AI education.

Tramontano-Kelly stresses that while AI training is vital, discussions must also address broader issues like internet affordability and access to technology, highlighting the interconnected nature of digital inclusion.