Future of Work Initiative

The future of work is not a distant point decades from now we must try to predict. Instead, what work looks like tomorrow depends on how we address historical injustices that shape opportunities today. The Future of Work Initiative aims to identify, develop, and amplify solutions that address the challenges of today while building toward a future in which workers are safe, empowered, and equipped to thrive in our changing world. We work with colleagues across the Economic Opportunities Program to ask:

• How can we reimagine workplace protections and benefits and eliminate the exclusions that exacerbate inequalities of race, place, and gender?
• As new technologies are introduced into workplaces, how can we harness the positive potential of emerging technologies while mediating the possible negative impacts?
• How can we leverage knowledge of a changing occupational landscape to inform worker education and training?

Across our work, the Future of Work Initiative seeks to build and disseminate knowledge rooted in workers’ experiences. We aim to advance policy ideas at the local, state, and federal level, backed by evidence. And we strive to build community and activate leaders to carry these conversations forward across sectors and around the globe.

The Future of Work Initiative was founded in 2015. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach to building a more inclusive economy, the Future of Work Initiative integrated with the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program in 2021.