The U.S. Department of Labor is throwing its support behind a presidential initiative aimed at preparing American youth for an artificial intelligence-driven job market.
Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer and Deputy Secretary Keith Sonderling endorsed President Donald Trump’s recent executive order establishing the White House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence Education, which places the Labor Department in a key role.
“The President and I are in complete agreement that protecting and preparing our workforce must be a top priority in advancing his critical AI agenda,” Chavez-DeRemer said.
The executive order directs the department to expand AI-related apprenticeships and encourages states to use Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funding to develop AI skills training programs.
“Artificial intelligence is reshaping the job market, and it’s critical we equip our workers with the skills they need to lead in this new era,” Sonderling said.
Sonderling, noted for his background in AI, will take a leading role in implementing the department’s responsibilities under the executive order.
The Labor Department’s mandates under the order include collaboration with the National Science Foundation to identify and promote high-quality AI education across the country.
The department must also work with the Education Department to create opportunities for high school students to access AI courses and certification programs.
The executive order represents one of several recent administrative actions focused on artificial intelligence since Trump returned to office in January.
