The advance of AI and automation technologies in the workplace requires new approaches to labor relations. Yet efforts by such trade unions as the United Auto Workers, Teamsters, and International Warehouse and Longshore Union efforts to negotiate a better future for their members appear to be stuck in the past.
The UAW and Other Unions Must Focus More on AI and Automation in Their Negotiations
Preparing workers for a changing workplace is as important as pay.
September 15, 2023
HBR Staff; Frazao Studio Latino/Getty Images; Umsplash
Summary.
In its negotiations with the Big 3 car companies, the United Auto Workers’ priority is maximizing pay increases for its members. The UAW and many other trade unions should be equally concerned about the impact of AI and automation on jobs and how to prepare their members for this new world.