FCC Commissioner Starks Remarks at Future of Work Congressional Caucus Launch

I want to first begin by saying congratulations to Reps Blunt Rochester (D-DE) and Bryan Steil (R-WI) for launching the Future of Work Caucus. At the Federal Communications Commission, my number one priority is to ensure that all Americans are connected to affordable and reliable broadband. And I have to tell you, folks, we're just not there yet when it comes to ensuring that everyone is connected to broadband in this country. I know I only have a few minutes to chat with you all today so let me just close by saying that an automation tsunami is coming. It could be disastrous if we don’t take action, and the time is now. Do we need to focus on re-training and up-skilling American workers with a high school diploma or less? Do we need to formulate a particular plan for communities of color and women that are disproportionately represented in jobs set to disappear? Do we need a collaboration between private and public stakeholders at all levels to drive solutions into our communities? Yes, yes, and yes! So let’s get going.

This caucus presents a unique opportunity to solve several interconnected issues to ensure that all Americans—no matter their gender, age, race, geographic location, or economic status—can provide for their families both now and in generations to come. I invite all of you to engage with and include the FCC on this intersection of broadband connectivity and the future of work.