A Blueprint for an Artificial Intelligence Future
- Troy Swanson
- Jun 26
- 2 min read
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a distant prospect. It’s already reshaping our work and the curricula of our colleges. In the near future, we could potentially see this technology impact hiring practices, instructional design, student services, and much, much more. That’s why Local 1600 has released a new report: “Facing the AI Future: A Call to Action for Union Members.”
This report is both a warning and a roadmap. If we act strategically, AI can enhance our work and reaffirm the human mission of education. But if we fail to act, AI will be used to undermine our jobs, erode academic freedom, and automate away the relationships at the heart of teaching and learning.
Key Takeaways from the Report:
Protecting Our Members:We must update our contracts and push for legislation that prevents employers from using AI to replace human educators, professionals, and staff. Collective bargaining must include language on algorithmic oversight, transparency, and human review.
Transforming Our Work (On Our Terms):We must explore forward-looking models, like AI-assisted apprenticeship structures, where AI handles repetitive tasks and frees human workers for higher-value, more creative work. We must demand control over how new technologies are implemented.
Keeping AI Aligned with Human Goals:From hiring software to student success dashboards, algorithms are already shaping decisions (often without accountability). We must fight for audits, transparency, and clear appeals processes to prevent biased or harmful outcomes.
Rethinking Learning:AI will change what students need to learn and how they learn it. Our faculty are already seeing the major impact of AI and are working to consider how to move forward. The report calls for curricula that center critical thinking, creativity, and AI literacy for students and workers.
Seeking Legislative Protections: During the “innovation interim” where change will be rapid and impactful, we must seek protections at the state and federal level. This should include worker protections from displacement, funding for retraining, and requirements for oversight.
Why This Matters to Our Union:
Local 1600 and unions everywhere must not wait. This is a moment to lead. The future of academic labor, workplace democracy, and student success depends on our actions today. AI policy is labor policy. It’s also educational policy.
This report is the beginning of a broader conversation for Local 1600. We’ll be holding meetings and sessions in the coming months to discuss next steps, develop bargaining strategies, and craft model legislative language. We encourage all members to read the report and join the conversation.
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