Work Intelligence Lab

Join us on the latest episode of the Work Intelligence Lab podcast as we dive deep into the transformative power of AI in the industry with Valerie Beaulieu James, the Chief Growth and Innovation Officer at ManpowerGroup. Learn how AI is reshaping talent architecture, enhancing productivity, and addressing the widening threat of inequality.  At Schneider Electric, AI-assisted maintenance has delivered remarkable impact—reducing technician turnover from 50% to just 6% while also accelerating product launches and improving operational efficiency.  The conversation highlights that effective AI adoption depends on trust built through skilling, leadership, and aligning dataset, skillset, and mindset.  They also explore how to make industry more attractive to youth, elevate vocational roles, learn from Switzerland’s apprenticeship model, redefine productivity as better outputs rather than “more with less,” and address digital divide risks, including for frontline workers and women.  #AI #Leadership #Innovation #TalentManagement #Podcast #FutureOfWork #Inclusion #ManpowerGroup #SchneiderElectric 

AI is here, and it’s changing the way we work—but are we ready for it?  In this episode of the Work Intelligence Lab podcast, we explore how AI is reshaping the workplace. Kicking off our special mini-series, The Human Edge: Leading People and Technology Through the Now and the Next, this conversation gets under the headlines to examine what responsible, people-centered AI adoption really looks like. From boosting productivity to enhancing job satisfaction, AI is a game changer. But it’s not just about implementing tech; it’s about training and empowering our teams to use it effectively.  Stephanie Cohen, Chief Strategy Officer at Cloudflare, shares her insights on the importance of security and fostering a culture of curiosity when integrating AI. The discussion emphasizes the human aspects of AI integration, highlighting the necessity for curiosity, empathy, and innovation in the workplace.  Chapters:   00:00 The Human Edge: AI and Productivity  05:27 AI in Action: Successes and Challenges  07:39 Curiosity and Grit in AI Utilization  09:49 Content Creators and AI Transparency  11:33 Differences in Workforce Approaches to AI  12:45 The Future of AI in Enterprise Processes 

With up to $330 million annual losses at stake due to talent shortages, the aerospace and defense sector is at a breaking point. In this episode, Karla Fletcher sits down with Leanne Cann, People Services Director at Babcock International, to discuss why traditional hiring models are no longer fit for purpose and what needs to change.  They discuss the company's innovative approaches to addressing the talent shortage in the aerospace and defense industry. From international recruitment drives to implementing emerging talent programs and strategic partnerships with local universities and communities, Babcock is redefining traditional hiring practices. Leanne also delves into the role of AI in streamlining the hiring process and emphasizes the importance of human interaction in talent acquisition.     Highlights:  The "Perfect Storm": Why traditional "experienced hire" recruitment is no longer enough to solve the skills gap. Emerging Talent & Rebranding: How Babcock scaled from 350 to 850 graduates and apprentices by redefining "Early Careers". Transferable Skills: The "Train to Fit" program with a 93% conversion rate, focusing on potential over pre-existing technical skills. The Role of AI: Where Babcock uses technology for speed and where human judgment remains non-negotiable. Community Investment: Building pipelines through 7,000 hours of annual STEM activities and local university partnerships.  Tune in to learn how Babcock is building a resilient pipeline of skilled workers and contributing to local community growth. 

From Talent Pools to Talent Meshes in the Future of Healthcare Workforce Planning In this episode of the Work Intelligence Lab podcast, our host Karla Fletcher sits down with Jonathan Shilton from Sanofi to explore the complexities and future of workforce planning in the biopharma sector.   With a sobering forecast of a potential 10 million health worker shortfall by 2030, the discussion covers how Sanofi is leveraging data, AI, and innovative workforce strategies to prepare for this challenge. Jonathan shares insights on connecting the dots between internal and external workforces, the role of artificial intelligence and data hygiene, and the ethical considerations in deploying AI in healthcare.   This in-depth conversation sheds light on the critical need for foundational work in workforce management to ensure future success and better patient care. Chapters: 01:52 Introducing Jonathan Shilton and His Role at Sanofi  04:18 The Importance of Visibility and Skills in Workforce Management  06:36 AI and Data Hygiene in Healthcare  09:07 Global Workforce Standardization and AI Implementation  18:02 Future of Healthcare and Workforce Transformation  24:57 Voices in Technology: Builders, Sellers, and Clients  29:21 Future Workforce Trends and Career Planning  31:06 The Role of Generalists and Specialists in the Modern Workforce  35:00 Global Demographic Challenges and Workforce Planning  37:39 The Power of Data in Workforce Strategy  42:18 Exciting Innovations and Future Collaborations 

In this enlightening episode of Work Intelligence Lab by ManpowerGroup, hosts Karla Fletcher and John Juliz who dive deep into what productivity truly means in today's rapidly evolving work environment. Joined by Dean Carter, a renowned leader in innovative employee experience, the conversation explores the intersection of purpose, culture, and productivity. Dean shares invaluable insights from his transformative work at Patagonia, emphasizing the importance of leaving every interaction better and his journey to writing 'Employee Experience Design.' The discussion also touches on the critical role of AI, the importance of fostering a culture of trust, and the transformative power of risk-taking with purpose. Tune in to learn how to reimagine productivity, leverage data for people-centric strategies, and create a thriving workplace.      Chapters  00:00 Introduction  02:52 Employee Experience Design  04:59 Patagonia's Purpose Evolution  06:09 Regenerative Agriculture and Culture  13:33 AI and Workforce Dynamics  18:51 Human-Centric Work Culture  26:13 Knowledge Sharing and Workforce Dynamics  27:13 The Role of AI in Creativity and Curiosity  29:26 Human Elements in Productivity  31:54 Innovative Approaches to Employee Engagement  35:19 Measuring Energy Levels and Productivity  38:14 Rethinking Compensation and Risk-Taking  44:49 Purpose-Driven Leadership and Risk-Taking  52:42 Conclusion and Upcoming Book 

In this episode of ManpowerGroup's Workforce Intelligence Lab podcast, our host Rebekah Kowalski explores critical topics in modern manufacturing with Liz Stuck and Berardino Baratta from MXD (Manufacturing Times Digital). They discuss the value of resources like the EV hiring guide, the impact of digital and cybersecurity advancements on U.S. manufacturing, and the critical need of upskilling the workforce. With over 2 million manufacturing jobs needing to be filled by 2030, the conversation highlights the importance of continuous learning, agility, and equitable workforce strategies to keep the US manufacturing sector competitive.    Hashtags:  #MxDLearn #Workforce #Manufacturing #New Technologies    Chapters:  00:00 Introduction  02:19 Addressing the Manufacturing Skills Gap  05:41 Exploring Electronic Vehicles (EV) in Manufacturing  10:33 Adapting to New Technologies and Continuous Learning  16:34 Closing Thoughts: Moving Technology and Workforce Together 

In this episode of the Work Intelligence Lab podcast, host Karla speaks with Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic, author and advisor to ManpowerGroup's Work Intelligence Lab, about the complex topic of authenticity in the workplace and the challenges of promoting it at work. They delve into why simply telling employees to 'be themselves' can be counterproductive and potentially harmful and discuss how creating an inclusive culture is essential for true diversity and inclusion. Dr. Tomas also shares insights from his book 'Don't Be Yourself' and the importance of balancing emotional intelligence with authenticity. This episode is packed with thought-provoking ideas and practical advice for HR leaders and anyone interested in workplace culture.

In this episode of Manpower Group's Workforce Intelligence Lab podcast, host Rebekah Kowalski discusses the critical issue of skill shortfalls in the manufacturing sector with industry experts Paul Ryznar (CEO, LightGuide, Inc ), Liz Stuck (VP, Government Affairs at MXD), and workforce futurist Alexandra Levitt. The conversation covers the impact of technology on workforce dynamics, the importance of talent intelligence, and practical ways to address the skills gap through innovative training and recruitment strategies. Our guests delve into how augmented reality and AI can enhance workforce readiness, the importance of continuous learning, and how to strategically redeploy internal talent to create a more adaptable and resilient organization. They also highlight the potential for employing underrepresented groups, such as individuals with disabilities, to address labor gaps and create inclusive work environments.     Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to the Skills Gap in Manufacturing   00:38 Meet the Experts   03:35 Defining Workforce Evolution   04:09 Workforce Readiness and Technology Adoption   05:40 Talent Intelligence and Skills Adjacencies   08:06 AI in the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities   10:38 Inclusive Hiring and Training Innovations   16:56 The Future of Workforce Strategy   21:10 Final Thoughts and Conclusion 

In the inaugural episode of the Work Intelligence Lab podcast, host Karla welcomes Becky, the newly appointed President and Chief Strategy Officer, and William, an editor, analyst, advisor, host, artist, and top 25 HR Tech influencer, to discuss the future of work. The conversation delves into topics such as the misconception of a 'destination' in the future of work, the role of AI in accelerating change, and the importance of skills development and adaptability. Becky and William share insights on how soft skills and constant learning are critical in a rapidly evolving job market, and they emphasize the need to shift from traditional educational paths to more practical skill-building routes. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of curiosity and humility in leadership, and a look forward to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead as technology continues to integrate into our daily lives.  Chapters:  00:00 Intro  01:44 Misconceptions About the Future of Work  02:37 The Evolution of Work and Technology  04:39 Humanity and the Future of Work  06:34 Adoption of AI and Technology  07:09 The Role of Data in Decision Making  08:06 Incentivizing Adoption and Embracing Failure  16:12 Skills Development and Future-Proofing Jobs  18:07 The Changing Role of Leadership  19:42 Male Ego and Leadership Myths  20:13 The Importance of Curiosity in Leadership  20:34 Questions for Business and Professional Growth  21:00 Learning from Everyone and Staying Humble  22:31 The Shift from Know-It-All to Learn-It-All  25:29 Preparing for the Future of Work  25:56 Challenges in Higher Education and Apprenticeships  28:01 The Role of Universities and Trades in the Future  35:46 Global Perspectives on Upskilling and Reskilling  36:30 Excitement for the Future and AI's Role  39:57 Conclusion and Future Discussions  #Future of Work #Evolution of Work #ManpowerGroup #Work Intelligence Lab Podcast 

Big news! The ManpowerGroup Work Intelligence Lab Podcast launches September 15. Each episode kicks off with a powerful data insight from ManpowerGroup research and trusted sources. Then, influential voices from across industries break down what that insight means in the real world — whether it confirms, challenges, or shifts how we think about work. These are honest, thoughtful conversations that go beyond the headlines and dig into the trends shaping the world of work — with real, practical takeaways. Looking for fresh ideas and real perspective on how work is changing? You’ll want to tune in. Coming soon to all major podcast streaming platforms and our YouTube channel. Stay tuned — episode 1 drops next week!