AI in the Workplace: How Black Americans Can Use Artificial Intelligence to Their Advantage

Employment law expert Chiquita Hall-Jackson reports that artificial intelligence is disrupting jobs ranging from fast food to professional degrees, with Black Americans facing higher risks due to systemic inequities. Hall-Jackson advises workers to pursue AI certifications and daily literacy training to remain competitive as AI transforms the global workforce.

Artificial intelligence has transitioned from a futuristic concept to a current workplace competitor for many Americans, according to reporting from The Root on June 10, 2026. Hall-Jackson, a Chicago-based employment law expert, warned that the technology’s impact extends beyond the technology and healthcare sectors.

The disruption is already visible in consumer-facing roles and technical positions. Wendy’s has implemented drive-thru speakers that take orders without a human cashier, while chatbots now produce marketing copy. Software can now write code that previously required teams of engineers, Hall-Jackson stated.

How many jobs will AI disrupt by 2030?

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report projects that 22% of jobs globally will be disrupted by 2030. The report further indicates that nearly 60% of workers will require new training or reskilling before the end of the decade to stay employed.

Current data shows this shift has already begun. Research from outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas indicates that AI has already eliminated nearly 50,000 jobs. This creates a contrast between the immediate loss of 50,000 positions and the broader 22% global disruption forecasted for the next few years.

Why are Black Americans more vulnerable to AI disruption?

Black Americans face a combination of technological displacement and long-standing inequities in wealth, education, and employment. Hall-Jackson noted that Black professionals are already targeted by attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

Environmental factors also contribute to hesitation regarding AI adoption. The Root reported that data centers in cities like Memphis have been accused of polluting local air using methane-powered turbines, creating a barrier to AI enthusiasm in those communities.

Systemic financial disadvantages further limit access to high-cost training programs, making it harder for some workers to pivot as their roles are automated.

How can workers future-proof their careers?

Hall-Jackson recommends that workers treat AI literacy like a standard technical skill, similar to the Microsoft Office Suite. She suggests dedicating 15 to 60 minutes daily, or at least weekly, to learning AI tools.

Data supports this approach. A hiring experiment published in the journal Oxford Economics Papers found that job applicants who included AI skills on their resumes were more likely to secure interviews.

To demonstrate expertise, Hall-Jackson suggests the following strategies:

• Updating resumes to explicitly list AI certifications.
• Creating YouTube shorts or Instagram reels to show how they use AI to advance their work.
• Publicly demonstrating a unique application or “twist” on AI technology.

For those who cannot afford professional courses, Hall-Jackson pointed to free or low-cost resources available through community colleges, local governments, and public libraries.

A lot of people sleep on Eventbrite. There are seminars and webinars that are free.

Chiquita Hall-Jackson

While major companies continue to invest billions into AI infrastructure, Hall-Jackson urged workers to diversify their portfolios to avoid being left behind by automation.

The same technology that you would need a person to sit there and code and take care of is now being taken care of by AI. So get in front of it, diversify your portfolio and adapt.

Chiquita Hall-Jackson