FutureWorks Commission: Preparing New York for the Impact of Artificial Intelligence
Governor Hochul has announced the establishment of the FutureWorks Commission, a statewide initiative focused on preparing workers and businesses for the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the economy. The commission will bring together experts, labor advocates, and business leaders to guide New York's response to AI-driven changes in the workforce, with a specific emphasis on protecting workers and expanding economic opportunities.
According to state officials, artificial intelligence is already reshaping the labor market, with projections indicating that over 30% of workers could face disruption or displacement. In New York City, there has been a 37% decline in entry-level corporate jobs between 2022 and 2024, a trend that may be linked to the adoption of AI technologies. The FutureWorks Commission will analyze real-time data, identify risks to workers, and recommend policies to ensure that the benefits of AI are distributed equitably, not just among large corporations.
In addition to the commission, the state is launching new initiatives to prepare New Yorkers for AI-related careers and challenges. One of these programs is AI Prep, a workforce development initiative led by Empire State Development. AI Prep aims to expand access to AI training, particularly for underserved communities. The State University of New York will help lead internship efforts, while Pursuit, a workforce development organization, will support job training programs.
The state is also expanding AI training for small businesses through its network of Entrepreneurship Assistance Centers. Welcome to Chinatown, a nonprofit organization, will serve as a statewide hub for AI education, offering personalized support and training to help businesses adopt new technologies. Governor Hochul has also announced plans to expand AI training for state workers, building on a pilot program that involved more than 1,000 employees. This initiative will provide guidance on responsible AI use and access to secure generative AI tools to support daily work tasks.
The FutureWorks Commission is a crucial component of New York's efforts to position itself as a leader in artificial intelligence. The commission will play a key role in ensuring that the state's workforce is prepared for the future and that economic stability is maintained during a period of rapid technological change. Through collaborative efforts and targeted initiatives, New York aims to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, ultimately benefiting workers and businesses across the state.