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Ford CEO: AI Growth Hindered by Skilled Worker Shortage

1/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Jim Farley, Ford Motor Company CEO, warns the U.S. risks failing AI goals due to a shortage of skilled workers for data centers and manufacturing.
He says AI could reach a $4.8 trillion market by 2033.
The shortage stems from an aging workforce and restrictive immigration policies.
A 2020 Uptime Institute survey shows half of data center operators struggle to find candidates.
Farley calls for vocational training and policy reforms.

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Story summary

Jim Farley, Ford Motor Company CEO, warns the U.S. risks failing AI goals due to a shortage of skilled workers for data centers and manufacturing.
He says AI could reach a $4.8 trillion market by 2033.
The shortage stems from an aging workforce and restrictive immigration policies.
A 2020 Uptime Institute survey shows half of data center operators struggle to find candidates.
Farley calls for vocational training and policy reforms.