The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) and Microsoft Corp. have announced a groundbreaking partnership to create an open dialogue on how artificial intelligence (AI) can serve workers' needs and include their voices in its development and implementation. This partnership is the first of its kind between a labor organization and a technology company to focus on AI.
The partnership aims to deliver on three key goals: sharing in-depth information with labor leaders and workers on AI technology trends, incorporating worker perspectives and expertise in the development of AI technology, and helping shape public policy that supports the technology skills and needs of frontline workers. To achieve these goals, Microsoft will provide formal learning opportunities on the latest developments in AI, and the two organizations will work together to propose and support policies that equip workers with essential skills and knowledge.
A key aspect of the partnership is educating workers about AI and its potential impact on their jobs. Microsoft will provide learning sessions, facilitated by AI experts, to provide labor leaders and workers with critical information and insights on AI. Additionally, LinkedIn Generative AI content will be tailored to specific sectors most affected by AI, and Microsoft and the AFL-CIO's Technology Institute will jointly develop and implement new content and professional learning opportunities.
The partnership also aims to shape public policy that supports workers' needs in an AI-powered economy. The AFL-CIO and Microsoft will join forces to propose and support policies that equip workers with essential skills, knowledge, and economic support. By working directly with labor leaders, Microsoft aims to ensure that AI serves the country's workers and promotes productive labor-management partnerships.
