US lawmakers have issued a warning about a rapidly evolving skills gap as artificial intelligence (AI) continues to transform the workforce. During a House Education and Workforce subcommittee hearing, members from both parties emphasized the urgent need to modernize training systems to keep pace with technological change.
Subcommittee Chairman Burgess Owens highlighted that AI is already being integrated into daily business operations, with nearly half of occupations expected to incorporate AI into at least a quarter of their tasks. He warned that 44% of workers’ core skills could change within the next five years, underscoring the need for timely workforce adaptation.
Democratic ranking member Bobby Scott stressed that existing programs like the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) need updates to better prepare workers for high-paying, technology-driven jobs, including those without a college degree. Several witnesses also called for employer-led training, apprenticeships, and expanded technical education programs to equip workers with the skills required for an AI-driven economy.
Mary Kate Morley Ryan of Accenture noted that AI literacy should be embedded in company culture rather than treated as an optional course. Tim House from the Wireless Infrastructure Association emphasized the growing demand for telecom and broadband workers as the US builds out digital and AI infrastructure. Brant Parton of CareerWise USA urged starting apprenticeships earlier to help young workers enter modern industries faster.
Experts agreed that integrating AI across all aspects of education and workforce training is critical to ensuring the US workforce can meet the demands of a rapidly transforming economy.
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