How OCIO is Using AI to Enrich (Not Replace) Jobs

Artificial intelligence is capturing headlines, sparking curiosity and concern. While it may sound like science fiction sometimes, the reality is that it’s simply a tool – and it’s up to us how we choose to use it.

The federal government, through the Biden-Harris administration's AI executive order, is championing the deployment of responsible and trustworthy AI. At the Department of Labor's Office of the Chief Information Officer, our focus is on harnessing AI for job enrichment rather than job replacement.

Here's how we're integrating AI into our workplace:

1. AI as a Work Companion: Imagine AI as a colleague who excels in crunching numbers and performing repetitive tasks, freeing up your time for more strategic work. At OCIO, we use AI to sift through extensive data sets, which helps to identify and prioritize cyber threats for human analysis.
2. Skill Enhancement Opportunities: AI offers a chance to upgrade your skills, transforming you into a workplace superhero. Whether through job training, school or local library resources, we encourage embracing AI for personal and professional growth. Our department provides AI-related training, continually seeking to bolster our tech teams.
3. New Job Horizons: AI is creating roles that didn’t exist before. From emotional intelligence consultants to “robot whisperers,” AI is opening doors to innovative career paths.
4. Prioritizing Safety: In the era of AI, safety remains paramount. The Department of Labor advocates for the equitable and responsible use of AI, ensuring technologies like the Hololens for OSHA inspections enhance workplace safety without introducing risks.
5. Advancing Equity: AI stands as a tool against socioeconomic disparities that can be used to advance equitable access to AI education and workplace integration. In alignment with the federal Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, the Department of Labor is establishing fair and ethical AI practices.
6. The Human Element: AI can manage routine inquiries and ensure service round-the-clock, allowing our staff to focus on building meaningful customer relationships and in-depth support when needed.

As the Department of Labor embraces AI, we're committed to using it as an effective tool for America’s workers and our staff – a win-win. With an open-minded approach to AI's rapid advancements, we can make work more fair, enjoyable and productive.

Louis Charlier is the chief AI officer and the deputy chief information officer at the U.S. Department of Labor. Follow OCIO on LinkedIn.