EP 19: Acting Commissioner Kevin D. Jarvis of New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development (NJDOL)

New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development Acting Commissioner Kevin D. Jarvis joins Anthony and Cyndie to discuss the evolving future of work, worker protections, and workforce development across the Garden State. Drawing on his background in labor law and public service, Jarvis explains how the Department of Labor and Workforce Development is modernizing systems, strengthening enforcement, and building partnerships with unions, employers, and educational institutions to support workers and businesses alike. He also addresses the growing challenges of worker misclassification, the rise of gig work and AI-driven technology, and why continuous education and collaboration are critical to protecting workers while preparing New Jersey’s workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.Episode highlights:(1:13) Introducing Acting Commissioner Kevin Jarvis(3:23) Growing up in a union family and serving workers(7:09) How organized labor helps shape workforce policy(11:42) Misclassification, wage theft, and the impact on workers and employers(16:24) Protecting vulnerable workers and anonymous reporting(20:23) Educating employers while enforcing labor laws(25:02) AI, apps, and the future of work(29:35) Why apprenticeships still work(30:12) Acting Commissioner Jarvis on legacy, fairness, and helping people(33:21) Investing in working-class families and opportunity