Future of Cities, Work, and Office Space — with Dror Poleg

Tech & Jobs

Scott Galloway discusses the profound impact of technological advancements on the workforce, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to automation. He argues that while automation can enhance efficiency, it also threatens jobs, particularly in sectors like office administration and food preparation, which could see 70% of tasks automated by 2030 1. This shift disproportionately affects young people and people of color, who are overrepresented in these roles. Galloway stresses the importance of creating opportunities for these groups to transition into new roles, highlighting the need for vocational training and a reevaluation of how society values different types of work 2.

The last big digitization, the Internet attacked middle class jobs. Specifically automation went after factories and manufacturing, and we lost a lot of good paying blue collar jobs.

--- Scott Galloway

He suggests that instead of subsidizing technology, there should be a focus on supporting human workers who can adapt and thrive alongside technological advancements.

   

Youth & Opportunity

Galloway highlights the critical need to reinvest in youth and create more pathways for non-college graduates as automation continues to reshape job markets. He points out that two-thirds of Americans may not obtain a college degree, yet they still possess valuable skills that can contribute to the economy 2. To address this, Galloway advocates for a massive investment in vocational programs and a shift in corporate hiring practices to value talent beyond elite university graduates. This approach aims to provide equitable opportunities for all workers, ensuring they have access to the wealth-creating potential of the U.S. economy.

We need to acknowledge that two thirds of Americans probably won't get a college degree. So how do we create more on ramps for those two thirds?

--- Scott Galloway

He also calls for a reevaluation of tax incentives that currently favor automation over human employment, suggesting a more level playing field to encourage hiring and training of human workers 3.