Future Focus | The AI Tipping Point: Layoffs, Power, and Why “Agency” Is the Most Important Skill We’re Not Teaching | Week of February 23, 2026

This episode explores three major AI developments—from massive tech layoffs to Pentagon AI contracts—and asks a critical question: Who has agency in an AI-driven world? Dr. Sabba Quidwai reframes the conversation from “AI vs. humans” to a new model of collaboration where success depends on how well people can work with and direct AI systems. The episode challenges educators and leaders to rethink skill development for a future where humans orchestrate intelligent tools rather than compete against them. Timestamps00:00 — A 4,000-Person Layoff That Shocked the Tech WorldJack Dorsey’s company Block cuts 40% of its workforce despite record profits, citing AI-driven productivity and smaller, highly skilled teams.00:03 — What “Agency” Means to Students and EducatorsA workshop with students, teachers, and administrators reveals how people still define agency as purely human decision-making—without considering AI collaborators.00:08 — The Rise of AI-Powered WorkplacesCompanies like Shopify, Salesforce, and Amazon begin restructuring teams around AI tools, signaling a major shift in how organizations measure talent and productivity.00:19 — The Missing Piece in Today’s Skills FrameworksA new Carnegie report on collaboration, communication, and critical thinking overlooks a key reality: many of these skills now involve interacting with AI agents.00:28 — AI Ethics and the Pentagon: Anthropic vs. OpenAIA conflict over military AI use highlights how human values and judgment will shape how powerful AI systems are deployed.Resources MentionedCarnegie Skills ProgressionAnthropic and Department of War UpdatesOpenAI Agreement with Department of WarExplore More from Designing Schools🤝 Partner with Us: ⁠⁠⁠J⁠⁠oin the AI Power Circle⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and collaborate with forward-thinking educators building the future with AI.📘 Get the Book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Designing Schools⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — a practical blueprint to transform your campus with creativity, leadership, and innovation.🎓 Prepare Your Students for an AI Future: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link to new student experience⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For questions, email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠