Gov. Hochul launches FutureWorks Commission to address impact of AI on New York workforce
Gov. Hochul launches FutureWorks Commission to address impact of AI on New York workforce
Publish Date: 2026-03-19 11:15:00
Source Domain: cbs6albany.com
Albany, NY (WRGB) — Governor Hochul announced the launch of a new statewide commission aimed at preparing workers and businesses for the growing impact of artificial intelligence on the economy.
The FutureWorks Commission will bring together experts, labor advocates and business leaders to help guide New York’s response to AI-driven changes in the workforce, with a focus on protecting workers while expanding economic opportunities.
Governor Hochul said,
During a time of rapid technological evolution, it is crucial that New York embraces the best AI has to offer in terms of efficiency and innovation, but also we as a state have to reckon with the ways it’s poised to disrupt some of the foundations of our society. My ambition for New York is to lead the nation in AI innovation with a workforce that’s ready to use AI to their advantage — not be victims of it.
State officials say artificial intelligence is already reshaping the labor market, with some projections suggesting more than 30% of workers could face disruption or displacement.
In New York City, reports show entry-level corporate jobs declined 37% between 2022 and 2024, a shift officials say may be partly tied to AI adoption.
The commission will be tasked with analyzing real-time data, identifying risks to workers and recommending policies to ensure the benefits of AI are shared broadly, not just among large corporations.
Alongside the commission, the state is launching new initiatives designed to prepare New Yorkers for AI-related careers and challenges.
One of the key programs is AI Prep, a workforce development initiative led by Empire State Development.
The program will focus on expanding access to AI training, particularly for underserved communities, and will include:
- AI Prep for Internships: Training undergraduate students for paid AI-related internships
- AI Prep for Jobs: Accelerated training and boot camps to help low-income residents transition into AI careers
Officials say the State University of New…
