Business Column
ADOBE STOCK
Posted
Thursday,November 5, 202612:24 pm
Artificial intelligence is changing the business of work and Philadelphia cannot afford to watch from the sidelines.Behind every conversation about efficiency is someone wondering whether their paycheck will survive the next software upgrade.
The concern is already local. Comcast is eliminating 634 positions at its Philadelphia headquarters, with layoffs beginning Dec. 31. Executives have described a broader restructuring that includes expanding AI agents in customer service. The company also plans more than 500 new Philadelphia positions. These changes do not establish that AI caused every cut, but they illustrate a difficult reality — the jobs companies need tomorrow may differ from those workers hold today.
The shift extends beyond one employer. A regional business surveyreportedin January found that 9.5% of respondents said generative AI reduced their need for workers, while 23.8% said it changed the kinds of workers they needed without changing headcount. Only 4.8% reported needing more workers.
As a business owner, I understand the pressure to operate efficiently. But Philadelphia companies must recognize that employees are also customers, parents, homeowners, and taxpayers. Workforce decisions reach far beyond an office.
Preparation requires action on three fronts.
Workers should identify which parts of their jobs involve repetitive tasks and learn how AI handles them. Practice drafting, organizing information and analyzing data, while learning to verify results and protect confidential information. Build examples demonstrating how your judgment improves the output.
Local training can help.Per ScholasPhiladelphia offers no-cost technical programs, including AI-focused business intelligence and cybersecurity training, subject to eligibility and program requirements.
Employers should provide paid learning time, clear guidance, and opportunities to move into new roles before eliminating positions. Small businesses should assess whether automation improves service and accuracy alongside savings.
Finally, Philadelphia’s education, workforce and business leaders should connect training to actual openings, with accessible schedules and support for working adults.
We should also protect entry-level opportunities. If technology absorbs every beginner’s assignment, how will the next generation develop experience?
The business of AI must include a plan for people. Philadelphia’s progress should be measured by how many residents can earn a living in the economy we are building.
Teresa M. Lundy is the principal and founder of TML Communications, the award-winning strategic public relations, crisis communications, and community engagement firm serving corporations, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies. Follow Teresa on Twitter @TeresaMLundy.
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