Buffenbarger warns of potential workforce disruption

Tom Buffenbarger, former General President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, its potential impact on the workforce and the decline of the U.S. shipbuilding industry. 

Speaking about the alarming pace of AI development, Buffenbarger claimed supercomputers are now communicating with each other and approaching autonomous decision-making capabilities. He expressed concern about the lack of a comprehensive plan to prepare the workforce for an AI-driven future, especially regarding robots and AI systems eventually replacing human workers in some industries, including manufacturing and agriculture.

Buffenbarger then discussed the decline of the U.S. shipbuilding industry, recounting his personal experience negotiating contracts. He emphasized the significant loss of union jobs and shipbuilding capabilities in the country, comparing America's current 80-flagged vessels in international commerce to China's 5,500. Buffenbarger also discussed recent efforts to revitalize the industry, particularly for submarine production, which could create up to 100,000 jobs for machinists and welders.

To further address the shipbuilding industry’s decline, Buffenbarger discussed the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act and the need for action from organizations like the Alliance for American Manufacturing. He talked about the importance of rebuilding America's shipbuilding capabilities in light of growing global threats and the potential economic benefits of revitalizing the industry.

Listen to the full episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast to hear more from Buffenbarger on AI's potential impact and boosting the American shipbuilding industry.