AI and the Future of Work

Artificial intelligence (AI), automation and other emerging technologies are changing how work gets done, what skills employers need and how people prepare for their careers. These changes bring opportunities to improve productivity, create new kinds of work and solve problems — along with questions about job quality, worker displacement, access to training and who benefits from technological advances.

The future of work isn’t just about technology. It’s about how Washington prepares workers, employers and communities to navigate change and share in the opportunities ahead.

What we know so far

Washington began exploring these issues well before the recent surge in AI. In 2018, the state Legislature funded a Future of Work project and task force. The task force developed 17 recommendations across five key topic areas, helping shape state policy and legislation.

Although the original project and task force have ended, the issues they identified remain relevant. Advances in AI and automation are adding urgency to questions about the skills people need, how jobs may change and how education and workforce programs can respond.

Preparing for what’s next

AI is drawing new attention to the relationship between technology, education, training and employment. Some jobs may change substantially, while new occupations and skill requirements emerge. The effects will vary across industries, occupations and communities.

Washington’s workforce system has an important role to play in helping people build skills, navigate career transitions and connect with opportunities. Employers, educators, policymakers and workforce partners also need timely information to understand changing workforce needs and make informed decisions.

The Workforce Board supports this work through research, policy development, coordination and evaluation. This page brings together research, reports and other resources to help Washington understand the changing world of work and prepare for what comes next.

Technology, opportunity and equity

The benefits and disruptions of new technologies won’t necessarily be shared equally. Workers may have different access to training, opportunities to develop new skills and the resources needed to adapt as jobs change. The effects may also differ by industry, occupation, geography and individual circumstances.

As AI and other technologies become more widely used, it’s important to consider not only how work is changing, but also how those changes affect workers, job seekers, employers and communities. Access to education and training, economic opportunity and the quality of available jobs all matter.

Understanding these changes — and helping Washington respond — is an ongoing challenge for the state’s workforce system.