Keith Sonderling, former deputy Labor Secretary under the Trump administration, recently highlighted a major barrier to AI adoption in the U. S. workforce: employee mistrust. Speaking at a Business Roundtable event, he explained that skepticism among workers about their employers’ use of AI is significantly slowing its integration across industries. AI is widely seen as transformative, capable of enhancing productivity, decision-making, and innovation. However, many employees fear job loss due to automation, creating resistance to AI-driven tools. Sonderling acknowledged these concerns are valid, as studies predict substantial job displacement from increasing automation and AI’s ability to replace routine and some complex tasks. This anxiety about job security challenges the smooth adoption of AI. To address this, the Trump administration advocated a proactive education approach. Sonderling emphasized introducing AI knowledge early in education to equip future workers with relevant skills and reduce fear by fostering awareness and understanding. Supporting this, an executive order mandated the development of AI curricula in schools nationwide.

This initiative aims to demystify AI, prepare students for an AI-integrated workforce, and promote trust by tackling challenges from the ground up. The broader conversation around AI in the workplace balances technological promise with legitimate concerns about displacement and ethics. Sonderling’s comments stress the importance of addressing human factors—trust and acceptance—alongside technology. As AI becomes more embedded in business functions, transparent communication and employee involvement will be crucial. Employers need to implement AI responsibly and engage workers in understanding its impact on their roles. The administration’s education focus reflects a forward-looking strategy to ensure workforce adaptation and maximize AI’s economic benefits. While challenges remain, such efforts strive to build an informed, confident workforce that views AI as an opportunity rather than a threat. In summary, overcoming employee mistrust is essential for successful AI adoption. Through education and transparency, businesses and government can collaborate to make AI a tool for augmentation and progress, fostering a resilient, skilled, and adaptable American workforce prepared for the future economy.