Exploring the role of AI and future of work: A conversation with IEEE President Tom Coughlin

During our interview, Coughlin shared his insights on the interplay between artificial intelligence and work, and the potential for AI to reshape both the workforce and our experience of work.

AI and universal basic income

He began with some observations on universal basic income, a concept gaining renewed traction amid concerns that AI could eventually make many types of work obsolete. The flip side of this, of course, is that if too many people are out of work due to AI, there will also be less demand for goods and services.

Coughlin suggested that the growth of AI might present an opportunity to rethink the nature of wealth distribution, perhaps even an opportunity to adopt new concepts of corporate ownership and reward, saying, “AI is going to displace the need for many human jobs, still generating the revenues and income.”

Coughlin acknowledged, however, that the more likely scenario is a paradigm shift in the type of work being done, where the focus is on using AI for augmented intelligence, with AI complementing human judgment and critical thinking, rather than taking over completely. Of course, this could still put a lot of people out of work.

Coughlin emphasized, however, that despite technological advancements, human nature means we tend to gravitate toward productivity and purpose. “People need to feel needed, feel productive, feel part of something,” he observed. This underlines the belief that humans will continually seek engagement and fulfillment, regardless of AI’s role in society.

He also pointed out that while AI excels in pattern recognition and data gathering, it cannot replicate human judgment and critical thinking skills. “Machines don’t do that as well as we do,” he stated, indicating that the future will see more jobs that harness the power of both AI and human intelligence.

Blockchain and data provenance

He also discussed the role of blockchain in establishing data provenance, including the greater integration of AI-generated data with blockchain technology to ensure trust and transparency.

Coughlin pointed out that this integration is likely to be pivotal in areas like privacy protection and combating misinformation. He emphasized the use of blockchain for verifying the origin of data, underscoring its importance in areas outside cryptocurrencies.

Setting standards for emerging technologies

He then discussed the vital role that organizations like IEEE play, their priorities, and how they plan to steer the community through these technological advancements.

Coughlin highlighted IEEE’s focus on engaging the younger generation and on adding value for professionals in the tech industry. “My biggest priorities are to help us to have value and to keep more of our younger members,” he shared.

He also emphasized the need for IEEE to adapt its communication strategies, potentially incorporating social media platforms to resonate with younger audiences and ensure relevance.

Challenges and opportunities

As Coughlin discussed the broader implications of emerging technologies like AI and blockchain, he pointed out that these technologies offer both challenges and opportunities, especially in areas like supply chain management where he noted the significant impact blockchain could have in ensuring the authenticity and provenance of goods and information.

In concluding our conversation, Coughlin reiterated the importance of developing responsible standards for emerging technologies. He emphasized that a positive future lies in harnessing the potential of AI and blockchain not only for efficiency but also for enhancing human experiences and societal progress.

These technologies, he believes, should be leveraged to “augment our capabilities and make meaningful change.” That is a nice dream, but the big question is whether it will happen or whether other interests will prevail.

The takeaway was clear: the future of work and technology needs to not only focus on automation and efficiency. It must also emphasize using these powerful tools to augment the human experience, create a more equitable society, and open up new areas of work creation — not just earn more money for shareholders.

IEEE, under Coughlin’s leadership, seems poised to play a critical role in guiding us through this exciting yet largely uncharted territory.