In a rapidly evolving job market, the need for a collective strategy on artificial intelligence (AI) has never been more pressing for the governors of New England. A recent Senate committee, led by Senator Bernie Sanders, forecasted that nearly 100 million American jobs could be at risk due to AI and automation in the next decade. In Massachusetts alone, analyses suggest that AI could disrupt as many as 55% of jobs, raising concerns about potential unemployment rates soaring to between 20% and 30% across the region.
With millions of working adults in cities such as Boston, Providence, and Hartford facing an uncertain future, New England policymakers must take proactive measures. The implications of widespread job loss extend beyond individual livelihoods, affecting housing security, food affordability, and state budgets strained by increasing costs for pensions and infrastructure.
To navigate this impending crisis, the governors of New England should embrace their historical collaboration to address regional challenges. Establishing a coalition focused on AI could not only create a unified approach to workforce development but also serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar issues.
Reskilling for the Future Workforce
An effective regional strategy must prioritize reskilling initiatives that align with the demands of the changing job landscape. Tailored for working adults, these programs should offer short-term courses—both online and in-person—that allow individuals to acquire new, in-demand skills without sacrificing their current employment. Unlike traditional educational pathways, rapid reskilling accommodates the complexities of work and family life while preparing participants for better job opportunities and higher wages.
A coalition of New England states could establish, fund, and scale these reskilling programs, focusing on initiatives with a proven return on investment (ROI). This approach would not only enhance the earning potential of workers but also position the region as a desirable location for businesses seeking a skilled workforce.
According to a 2023 analysis by Harvard, the Northeast currently has 11 reskilling programs for every 100,000 workers, significantly higher than the national average. Yet, many of these programs remain disconnected and outdated, failing to adequately prepare individuals for the roles that employers urgently need to fill. A report from MIT highlighted that the national skills gap is particularly pronounced in New England, where there are roughly 47 unemployed workers for every 100 manufacturing job openings.
To bridge this gap, the coalition could enhance training programs specifically targeting “head and hands” roles—positions that require both advanced skills and human interaction. These jobs, found in sectors ranging from healthcare to semiconductor manufacturing, are among the least likely to be automated.
Building Partnerships for Effective Solutions
In addition to developing new training initiatives, the coalition should also guide New England residents to existing, high-performing workforce development organizations. Regularly publishing a database of top training providers, ranked by metrics such as wage gains versus program costs and completion rates, would empower individuals to make informed decisions about their career advancement.
Collaboration with major employers in the region is vital. Companies like CVS in Rhode Island, LEGO in Boston, and Aetna in Hartford could play a crucial role by endorsing reskilling programs and potentially subsidizing costs. Such partnerships benefit both businesses, which gain access to a more skilled workforce, and employees, who are more likely to complete training when their employers support the initiative.
The consequences of inaction are far more significant than the investments required for preparation. The governors of Northeastern states must take the initiative, working together to develop comprehensive solutions. In recent years, collaboration across party lines has yielded constructive responses to challenges in areas like energy and public health.
As AI represents one of the most significant economic challenges in recent history, addressing it effectively will require a collective strategy that transcends state boundaries. By uniting efforts, New England can ensure not only the region’s economic stability but also the well-being of families facing an uncertain future.
Connor Diemand-Yauman and Rebecca Taber Staehelin are the co-founders and co-CEOs of Merit America, a national nonprofit committed to creating a pathway to the middle class for Americans mired in low-wage employment. Their perspective underscores the urgency of a coordinated response to the challenges posed by AI in the workforce.
