As artificial intelligence (AI) continues its rapid growth in the tech industry, discussions regarding its impact on workers and the economy are intensifying. Major tech companies like Google and Microsoft, who heavily invest in AI technology, are forming a consortium to investigate the potential effects of AI on technology-related jobs. Cisco, a prominent telecommunications equipment manufacturer, is leading the consortium, which also includes IBM, Intel, SAP, and Accenture. The American Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) and the Communications Workers of America (CWA) unions are listed as advisors to the group. The advent of generative AI, such as chatbots and image generators, has disrupted the tech industry. Many companies are fully embracing this technology, developing new AI tools, and assuring investors that these advancements will transform the world and generate significant profits. Concerns about AI replacing human jobs, which have long been debated, have become more pressing as policymakers contemplate regulatory measures. Individuals who rely on writing professionally have already experienced job losses as companies increasingly employ chatbots for advertising or social media copy. Last year, Hollywood writers secured protections against being compelled to work with AI-generated content in their union contract.

Many computer programmers claim to use AI to generate code, enabling them to work more efficiently. According to a study by the Pew Research Center in 2023, approximately 20% of American workers in positions such as tax preparers, copywriters, and web developers face a "high exposure" to AI. However, the overall impact of the AI revolution on work remains uncertain. It is also unclear what specific objectives this newly formed group aims to achieve. Cisco's announcement suggests that the group will focus on producing a report offering "actionable insights for business leaders and workers. " They plan to analyze how AI might transform 56 different technology roles, although specific job titles are not mentioned in the announcement. Representatives from Cisco, Google, Microsoft, CWA, and AFL-CIO did not provide additional information regarding the group upon request. Corporations often establish working groups or compile reports on industry-related issues to influence ongoing debates. Tech firms have been substantial investors in lobbying efforts over the past decade, initially as Congress sought to regulate social media and currently as lawmakers shift their attention towards AI. Many tech executives have publicly expressed their commitment to "reskilling" or "upskilling" workers in response to economic changes, essentially providing training opportunities for individuals to acquire new skills. Nevertheless, these same companies have often laid off tens of thousands of employees.