Cisco, Microsoft, Google, Others Launch Consortium to Tackle AI's Workforce Impact

Cisco, along with major tech companies including Accenture, Eightfold, Google, IBM, Indeed, Intel, Microsoft, and SAP, has formed an AI-Enabled Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Workforce Consortium to analyze AI's impact on tech jobs and propose training pathways for affected roles.

Formed in response to the U.S.-EU Talent for Growth Task Force, with input from the U.S. Department of Commerce and advisors like labor unions and educational organizations, the consortium seeks to understand how AI alters job requirements and to provide actionable insights for businesses and workers.

Focused on assessing AI's influence on job roles in ICT, the Consortium will issue reports with practical recommendations for upskilling and reskilling. It also plans to recommend inclusive training programs benefiting various stakeholders.

In its initial phase, it will evaluate 56 ICT job roles and suggest training for impacted positions, covering a significant portion of the ICT sector in the U.S. and major European countries.

Amy Pannoni, Vice President and Deputy General Counsel, HR Legal at Microsoft, says, "As a member of the consortium, we will work with industry leaders to share best practices, create accessible learning opportunities, and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that workers are equipped with the technology skills of tomorrow."