Success Story

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the workplace at an incredible pace. By 2030, the global workforce could lose 92 million of today’s jobs while creating 78 million focused on roles that integrate AI.

The National Urban League believes a strong labor force equals a strong community. To prepare the communities we serve for the future of work, the Urban League movement has partnered with Google to incorporate AI upskilling into the Urban Tech Jobs Program, an NUL signature program. Since the partnership began in October 2024, over 800 people have been enrolled in AI and digital literacy training across eight affiliates.

“The Urban Tech Jobs Program goes beyond just training—it’s about creating opportunities for individuals to upskill and prepare for the future of work,” said Eric Goodie, Executive Vice President from the Houston Area Urban League. “By offering the Google AI education alongside professional development, we’re not only equipping participants with valuable tools but also helping to close the equity gap in tech and empowering communities to rise together.”

Participants learn the evolving role of AI systems in society, understand its impact on businesses and communities, and develop responsible AI usage and digital competencies for workforce readiness.

“The program’s integration of AI upskilling and professional development has allowed participants to build technical expertise while gaining the critical workplace skills needed to thrive in high-demand careers,” shared the Urban League of Philadelphia.

This program also creates pathways for communities who are far too often left out of the technology industry. African Americans represent 13% of the U.S. workforce and only 8% of tech occupations, and women represent 49% of the workforce but only 26% of tech jobs. The Urban League affiliate movement is committed to closing this gap through the work of the UTJP and this partnership with Google.