Amber Hickman |
Microsoft has partnered with the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) to explore how organisations can consider workers’ needs when developing and implementing of artificial intelligence technology.
There are three goals of the partnership. The first is to share in-depth information on AI trends and developments with labour leaders, workers and students via formal learning opportunities provided by Microsoft experts. Furthermore, Microsoft will work with the American Federation of Teachers to deliver workshops to prepare students for careers in the technology sector.
The second goal of the partnership is to incorporate worker perspectives and expertise in the development of AI technology. Gathering this feedback will allow Microsoft to develop worker-centred technology with a focus on unions in selected key sectors.
Finally, Microsoft and AFL-CIO aim to help shape public policy that supports the development of technology skills and needs of frontline workers. The two organisations will support the expansion of registered apprenticeship and advocate for funding in education.
“By working directly with labour leaders, we can help ensure that AI serves the country’s workers,” said Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft. “This groundbreaking partnership honours the rights of workers, learns from the advice of labour leaders as we develop technology and helps us provide people with the skills that will become essential in a new AI era.”