On Monday, November 10, 2025, at 11:00 am CT join the Chicago Fed’s Economic Mobility Project for the virtual event Artificial Intelligence in the Office and the Factory. The event will feature new research from Chicago Fed economist Gustavo de Souza on how artificial intelligence is reshaping labor markets. Drawing on a unique data set of registered AI software, his research documents the rapid expansion of AI applications and widespread use of AI in office and factory settings.

Following the research presentation, a panel of experts, moderated by Jennifer Strong, Executive Producer of SHIFT with Jennifer Strong will discuss how these findings connect to the evolving role of AI in offices and factories. Nicole Mangarella of SPS will offer her perspective on enterprise adoption and workforce changes in administrative and service settings. J. Edward Colgate of Northwestern University will speak to advances in robotics, human–machine interaction, and the integration of AI in production environments. Ajay Agrawal of the University of Toronto will reflect on the broader economic implications of AI diffusion, innovation, and productivity. And Cassidy Reid of the advocacy group Women in Automation will add insight on emerging AI applications in industrial processes and the development of technical talent across manufacturing and logistics. Together, the panelists will consider how AI is being used to assist with and complete tasks, meet labor challenges, and develop organizational strategies in various sectors.