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“Reading the Room: Preparing Workers for AI”

Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; Employment and Workforce Safety Subcommittee

September 25, 2024 (recording linked here)

HEARING INFORMATION

Witnesses and Written Testimony (linked):

• Dr. Karin Kimbrough: Chief Economist, LinkedIn

• Mr. Alex Kotran: Chief Executive Officer, aiEDU

• Mr. Ken Meyer: Senior Director of Human Resources, Ryan Health

• Mr. Denzel Wilson: Grassroots Program Manager, Seed AI

HEARING HIGHLIGHTS

IN THEIR WORDS

SUMMARY OF OPENING STATEMENTS FROM THE COMMITTEE

• Chairman Hickenlooper explained that the hearing was focused on preparing American workers to use AI in the workplace effectively. He noted that while AI presents significant opportunities, the workforce needs appropriate training to unlock its benefits. He pointed out that AI is already widely accessible and that many companies are integrating it into their operations. Hickenlooper emphasized that AI literacy and training are essential for ensuring both workers and businesses can benefit from AI responsibly, and highlighted legislation aimed at increasing these opportunities, such as the Lifelong Learning Act.

• Ranking Member Braun remarked on the rapid advancement of AI technology since the subcommittee's last hearing. He drew on his experience in running a logistics company to discuss the transformative power of technology but cautioned that AI comes with new challenges, including the need for regulation. Braun emphasized the importance of a balanced approach to regulation that fosters AI’s benefits while addressing potential risks. He referenced the AI Leadership Training Act, which aims to improve AI literacy among federal leaders, and stressed the importance of informed oversight as AI reshapes the American workplace.

SUMMARY OF WITNESS STATEMENTS

• Mr. Ken Meyer representing the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), shared that SHRM, with its vast global reach, is at the forefront of workplace innovation, particularly in AI. He highlighted SHRM's research, showing that AI is already being used by 25% of organizations, especially in HR, to enhance efficiency, creativity, and work quality. However, he emphasized the need for AI literacy and skills training, while advocating for a uniform federal standard to regulate AI use in the workplace and prevent unintended consequences from fragmented state and local laws.

• Dr. Karin Kimbrough, Chief Economist at LinkedIn, shared her insights on how AI is reshaping the economy, focusing on three key trends: the increasing influence of AI on jobs and skills, growing demand for AI talent, and the benefits of workers acquiring AI skills. She explained that companies are both hiring new AI talent and upskilling current employees, noting a 30% increase in AI-related job postings. She also urged the committee to focus on expanding skills-based hiring, supporting employer-driven upskilling initiatives, and ensuring timely data collection on AI's impact on the workforce.

• Mr. Alex Kotran, CEO of aiEDU, stressed the urgent need for teacher training and professional development to prepare students for the AI-driven workforce. He explained that AI is transforming industries at an unprecedented rate, citing Amazon's use of AI to streamline software development. He emphasized that teachers are essential in equipping students with durable skills like critical thinking and adaptability. He advocated for a coordinated national effort, including increased funding and support for AI literacy, to ensure both teachers and students can navigate the future of work effectively.

• Mr. Denzel Wilson, Grassroots Program Manager for Seed AI, highlighted Seed AI's grassroots efforts to turn AI anxiety into opportunity through initiatives like Hack the Future and micro-grant programs for community colleges. He emphasized the importance of creating equitable access to AI education and the resources needed for students from underrepresented communities to thrive. He encouraged the subcommittee to leverage public-private partnerships to ensure AI opportunities are accessible to all Americans.

SUMMARY OF Q and A

• Chairman Hickenlooper asked Mr. Kotran how aiEDU customizes its AI literacy training for local needs, such as in Colorado. Mr. Kotran responded that their work varies by state, and in Colorado, they partnered with the Colorado Education Initiative to engage hundreds of stakeholders across the education and workforce sectors. This collaboration aims to raise awareness and create systemic support for training teachers and preparing students for AI.

  The Chairman then asked Mr. Wilson how the federal government could ensure training resources reach underserved workers, such as those in rural areas or from non-technical backgrounds. Mr. Wilson suggested that community colleges are key to reaching these populations. He emphasized the importance of funding workforce-related programs at two-year colleges to prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce, rather than following the traditional four-year college transfer route.

  The Chairman followed up by asking Mr. Meyer about collecting feedback from workers using AI applications. Mr. Meyer explained that employers should maintain open-door policies to encourage worker feedback, which would help organizations improve employee experiences with AI. He highlighted that AI allows organizations to focus on their core priorities by streamlining other tasks, making it essential to listen to employees to understand what is truly important.

  The Chairman then asked Dr. Kimbrough about the most in-demand AI skills and whether LinkedIn’s data reflects training participation across industries. Dr. Kimbrough stated that technical skills like machine learning and generative AI are highly sought after, while non-technical skills focus on using AI tools like ChatGPT. She noted that industries such as retail, administrative services, and hospitality are adopting AI tools faster than others.

• Ranking Member Braun asked Mr. Meyer about the generational differences in how people perceive AI, particularly comparing younger individuals who grew up with technology to older generations. Mr. Meyer acknowledged that AI can be intimidating for some, recalling how his mother faced challenges with technology in healthcare. He noted that younger workers may be more excited about AI, while older workers may feel anxious. However, Mr. Meyer emphasized the opportunity for reverse mentorship, where younger employees help older ones adapt, and expressed optimism that AI will continue to improve and evolve.

  The Ranking Member asked Mr. Wilson to share his perspective on how older generations are adapting to AI. Mr. Wilson explained that while younger generations have been primed for AI through exposure to technology and media, older generations are more anxious about its implications. He stressed the importance of clear communication about both the benefits and risks of AI to reduce fear and encourage widespread adoption across all age groups.

  The Ranking Member followed up by asking Dr. Kimbrough about state and local policies, such as those in New York and California, regulating AI in the workplace. Dr. Kimbrough responded that LinkedIn emphasizes responsible AI use, prioritizing fairness, transparency, and inclusion. She expressed that these principles help build trust with users and empower them to understand how AI is applied in their work.

  The Ranking Member then asked Mr. Kotran about international competition in AI and the risks of malicious use. Mr. Kotran expressed concern that the U.S. is unprepared for the economic disruption AI could cause, particularly in fields like law, medicine, and customer service, which are highly exposed to AI. He warned that during economic downturns, companies may use AI to cut costs and replace workers. Mr. Kotran also highlighted the lack of a coordinated national plan to guide students and workers in preparing for AI-driven changes in the job market, contrasting the U.S. approach with discussions happening in places like Silicon Valley.

• Sen. Kaine asked Mr. Kotran if there are industry-standard AI credentials that are portable across states, allowing someone to move with a recognized certification. Mr. Kotran that while some may suggest creating AI-specific credentials, the real focus should be on developing "durable skills" like critical thinking and collaboration. He noted that the fast-changing nature of AI makes it challenging to develop long-term credentials, and he expressed concern that businesses can depreciate AI tools for tax benefits but not employee upskilling.

  Sen. Kaine asked Dr. Kimbrough about expanding skills-based training. Dr. Kimbrough explained that LinkedIn data shows focusing on specific skills rather than degrees or experience can expand the talent pool by up to 20 times. This approach also increases representation, particularly among women, who are 26% more represented in skills-based hiring. She advocated for creating more pathways that prioritize skills over degrees to diversify the workforce and tap into underrepresented talent.

  Sen. Kaine turned to Mr. Wilson and discussed the role of community colleges in AI training. Mr. Wilson agreed, emphasizing that community college programs often focus on hands-on, workforce-oriented training rather than general education. He cited examples of community colleges offering AI workforce programs that equip students with practical skills, sometimes leading to bachelor's degrees. Mr. Wilson advocated for companies to adjust their hiring practices to recognize these two-year degrees, as graduates are already well-prepared for the workforce.

  Sen. Kaine by emphasizing the need for federal hiring practices to shift towards skills-based evaluations, moving away from the strict requirement of college degrees in many roles. He argued that in today’s skills-based world, the focus should be on what candidates can do, rather than their formal educational credentials.

• Sen. Budd then asked Dr. Kimbrough about the future of jobs in light of AI advancements, specifically which types of jobs might be in demand over the next 5 to 10 years. Dr. Kimbrough responded that predicting future jobs is challenging, citing LinkedIn data that shows many of today’s fastest-growing jobs didn’t exist 20 years ago. However, she emphasized that "durable skills" like problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and leadership would remain essential, as these are less likely to be replaced by AI.

  Sen. Budd continued by discussing the importance of upskilling workers in the face of AI changes and mentioned his support for the Pell Act and Employer Directed Skills Act, which aim to make short-term job training more accessible. Dr. Kimbrough agreed, stating that LinkedIn data shows a significant gap between the demand for AI-related talent and the current supply. She supported expanding pathways for workers to reskill and gain credentials through short-term programs to meet workforce demands quickly.

  Sen. Budd concluded by highlighting the increased energy demands brought about by AI, mentioning that ChatGPT uses significantly more energy than a typical Google search. He expressed concern about the current administration’s stance on clean energy, emphasizing the need for a balanced energy approach, including natural gas, to support the growing energy needs driven by AI advancements. He warned that China will ensure it has the necessary energy resources to surpass the U.S. in AI development if the U.S. fails to address its own energy requirements.

• Sen. Markey expressed concern about the potential harmful and discriminatory effects of AI in the workplace, particularly in hiring, firing, and worker management. He provided examples of biased algorithms that favor men over women, exclude resumes from Black men and LGBTQ individuals, and unfairly grade Black women for their tone in call centers. Sen. Markey then asked all the witnesses if they agreed that algorithms used in employment decisions should be free from bias and discrimination. Dr. Kimbrough, Mr. Kotran, Mr. Meyer, and Mr. Wilson all responded with a "yes."

  Sen. Markey highlighted the introduction of his AI Civil Rights Act of 2024, which aims to prevent discriminatory algorithms from being used in critical decisions, including employment. He emphasized that AI can both elevate and degrade, but there must be safeguards in place to protect workers from discrimination. He noted that his legislation would require companies to test algorithms for bias before their use, ensuring they are not discriminatory in areas like resume screening, job recommendations, and worker performance evaluations.

  Sen. Markey also requested that a letter from the National Nurses United be entered into the record, which outlined concerns about biases in clinical algorithms. He reiterated that AI innovation must coexist with protecting civil rights and that AI technology needs to be made more energy-efficient, particularly in light of the high energy consumption of ChatGPT compared to Google searches. Sen. Markey concluded by criticizing former President Trump's opposition to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which supports renewable energy and storage technologies, and emphasized the need to align AI development with climate goals.

• Ranking Member Braun asked the panel about geopolitical competition in AI, wanting to know which countries or industries have advanced the fastest and if there has been any malicious use of AI. Dr. Kimbrough responded that LinkedIn data shows rapid growth in AI skills development in countries like Singapore, India, and Israel, where AI literacy is growing faster than in the U.S. Despite this, she noted that the U.S. still has a significant portion of the world’s AI talent, with a third of AI technical workers based in the U.S. Mr. Kotran explained that the global AI competition is largely between the U.S. and China. He noted that China has a regulatory advantage, such as requiring AI-generated images to be labeled, while the U.S. faces issues like AI misuse in schools and lacks regulatory control over some companies based overseas. Mr. Kotran acknowledged the difficulty in building regulations around evolving AI technology due to the democratic process. Mr. Meyer added that while he had no specific data on the subject, SHRM emphasizes the importance of combining AI with human intelligence to maximize return on investment. He expressed confidence that the U.S. is still ahead in AI but acknowledged that other countries are catching up. Mr. Wilson, stated that he didn’t have specific information on the topic at the moment but offered to follow up later with more data.

• Chairman Hickenlooper shifted the conversation to the development of AI standards, emphasizing the urgency of establishing guidelines for transparency and regulation. Dr. Kimbrough responded that LinkedIn prioritizes accountability, transparency, and user protection in its design choices. Mr. Kotran remarked that regulating AI risks entirely is unrealistic and suggested that building social norms around AI use, alongside regulatory efforts, would be essential. Mr. Meyer emphasized the need for a balanced approach, advocating for responsible AI use without making it prohibitively expensive for organizations, especially nonprofits. Mr. Wilson supported the NIST AI risk management framework and other entities focused on AI safety, suggesting that with adequate funding, these organizations could help establish essential standards for AI use.

  The Chairman concluded the discussion by reflecting on the potential of AI to empower individuals and drive lifelong learning. He shared his vision for a centralized platform to track skills and enable continuous learning, referencing his idea for “myshot.com” as a tool to facilitate the acquisition of skills in a changing world.

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