By Louis J. King II, President & CEO, OIC of America
The future of work is no longer a distant idea — it’s here. Automation, artificial intelligence, remote work, and the green economy are redefining the workforce, and at breakneck speed. For the communities we serve and partner with, this moment presents both a challenge and a huge opportunity. The question is: will we be passengers or drivers of this transformation?
At OIC of America, we’re preparing people to lead in this new world of work and not get left behind. That means teaching digital and AI skills, expanding access to technology, and making sure every learner has the tools to succeed in a tech-enabled economy. But it also means investing in emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and adaptability — skills that are just as important in a fast-changing and increasingly competitive world.
The World Economic Forum predicts that by 2030, up to 85 million jobs may be displaced by automation — but 97 million new roles will emerge. These new jobs will require new skillsets. The future will reward lifelong learners — those who are willing to train, pivot, and grow. And for the skilled trades where we focus on preparing people for the workforce, the possibilities to chart new paths are endless.
In Pennsylvania, our Delaware Valley Alliance (DVA) serves as the blueprint for this evolution. The DVA is an essential component of the infrastructure needed to ensure communities secure the necessary resources to thrive long-term.
By integrating housing, public safety, career training, health and more into a cohesive advocacy framework, we aren’t just filling jobs; we are securing economic independence for Pennsylvania’s talented, yet untapped (and overlooked) workers. This coordinated effort is structured so that the Commonwealth’s booming industry surges in life sciences, data centers, and advanced manufacturing also benefit its citizens more equitably. These wins reflect a statewide victory for its citizens; as the “future of work” arrives, no community is left on the sidelines of progress. We look forward to scaling this approach in other communities where we serve.
For communities that have historically been left out of opportunity and forgotten, the future of work must include justice, not just jobs. That means policy change, corporate investment, and community-based solutions that put people at the center.
This is a defining moment. Let’s make sure our people are prepared to not just survive — but lead.
For more information, visit http://www.oicofamerica.org
