Governor’s Task Force on Workforce and Artificial Intelligence Releases Comprehensive Advisory Action Plan
In response to the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and its transformative impact on labor markets, the Wisconsin Governor Ton Evers’ Task Force on Workforce and Artificial Intelligence has released a detailed Advisory Action Plan. Established by Executive Order #211, the Task Force is chaired by Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Secretary Amy Pechacek, with additional leadership from Department of Administration (DOA) Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld and Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes. The plan aims to harness AI technologies to advance equity and economic opportunities while addressing potential workforce disruptions.
The plan aims to harness AI technologies to expand opportunity and equity while addressing the challenges of automation and workforce change. According to the report, Wisconsin ranks first among all states in the employment-weighted share of businesses using AI. Therefore, the state is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation and set an example for inclusive innovation.
Building on Historic Workforce Investments
Governor Evers’ $158 million workforce investment, funded through the American Rescue Plan Act, laid the groundwork for this initiative. The funding helped remove barriers to employment, improved access to skills training, and strengthened regional partnerships.
Over ten months, the Task Force met with diverse stakeholders, analyzed labor market data, and studied early AI adopters. As a result, the Advisory Action Plan provides a forward-looking roadmap for how AI will affect industries, occupations, and skill requirements across Wisconsin. It emphasizes equity, education, and collaboration as key drivers of success in an AI-powered economy.
Expanding Education and AI Literacy
The plan highlights the urgent need to expand education and technical training. It recommends embedding AI literacy throughout K–12 and higher education to prepare students for a changing job market. Furthermore, it calls for an innovation-focused curriculum that builds both technical and human-centered skills.
The Department of Public Instruction’s guidance, “Empowering Lifelong Learning: AI Guidance for Enhancing K–12 and Library Education,” serves as a model for integrating AI responsibly. It prioritizes ethical use, data privacy, and responsible application of emerging technologies.
Modernizing State Infrastructure and Governance
The Task Force also urges state government to modernize its infrastructure to make effective use of AI. Key recommendations include expanding broadband access, establishing an Office of Data and Privacy, and forming an Interagency Technology Governance Work Group. Together, these initiatives would improve service delivery, strengthen digital equity, and guide AI adoption across state agencies.
Building a Future-Ready Workforce
In workforce development, the plan calls for expanding apprenticeship programs to include AI-related skills and extending the Worker Connection program to provide AI training. In addition, the Wisconsin Fast Forward program could fund employer-led AI training initiatives, helping workers adapt to new technologies.
The proposed AI Workforce Talent Pipeline program seeks to promote AI-related careers among underrepresented populations. Furthermore, the plan supports modernizing key sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture through AI innovation hubs, startup incubation programs, and an AI Roadmap for Wisconsin Businesses.
Engaging Communities Across the State
Public engagement was central to the Task Force’s process. Over six statewide meetings, residents, educators, and business leaders shared their views on how AI is transforming local communities. The Task Force also recognized the importance of continuing dialogue with Wisconsin’s 11 federally recognized tribes to ensure that AI policies and investments respect tribal sovereignty and community needs.
Ultimately, the Advisory Action Plan sets a clear direction for ensuring Wisconsin remains a leader in the AI economy. By combining innovation with inclusion, the state can build a workforce ready to thrive in an era of intelligent technologies.
Need Help?
If you’re wondering how Wisconsin’s task force, or any other state’s AI task force or global bill could impact you, don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. Their Audit Experts are ready to provide valuable assistance while answering your questions and concerns.
