HBS Managing the Future of Work
David Deming on workforce shifts and the future of college
Feb 26, 2025
David Deming, a Harvard professor focused on the intersection of labor markets and education, dives deep into AI's early impact on the workforce. He questions if the claims of revolutionary change are overstated while offering insights on technological disruption. The discussion covers the decline in community college enrollment linked to economic shifts, the impact of colleges on social mobility, and the importance of adapting education for an AI-driven economy. Deming also addresses public policy challenges in navigating these rapid labor market changes.
38:00
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Quick takeaways
- The U.S. labor market is undergoing unprecedented churn driven by technological advancements, necessitating adaptive strategies from stakeholders.
- Community colleges face declining enrollment due to strong job markets, prompting a need to reevaluate and communicate their value effectively.
Deep dives
Churn in the Labor Market
The analysis reveals that the U.S. labor market is experiencing unprecedented levels of churn, indicating faster changes than at any time since the 1970s. This is based on a measure of occupational churn that compares job categories over time. Early indicators suggest that while the labor market appears stable, underlying factors are driving significant transformations in job types and availability. The findings reflect a dynamic labor environment shaped by technological advancements and economic shifts, prompting stakeholders to adjust their strategies.
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