Following another wave of major tech layoffs across the Bay Area linked to the growing use of artificial intelligence, California officials are rolling out efforts aimed at helping workers adapt to a rapidly changing job market.

The layoffs, announced by companies including Meta, Intuit and LinkedIn, came amid increasing concerns that AI is replacing certain roles in the tech industry. The debate intensified after a CEO who recently reduced his workforce by 20% published an opinion piece explaining how AI influenced decisions about which positions to eliminate.

In response, Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration said it is working to prepare workers for an economy increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence.

At the same time, some companies argue that while AI may eliminate certain jobs, it is also creating new opportunities. Startups focused on artificial intelligence continue attracting venture capital funding and expanding their hiring efforts.

“All major technological shifts have displaced some jobs while creating many others, and AI is no exception,” said Natraj Balasubramanian, CEO of the AI-focused company Braiin.

Newsom recently introduced an executive order centered on workforce preparation and education, with the goal of helping Californians develop skills aligned with emerging industries and evolving employer demands.

“One of the major pieces of this effort is partnering with educators and workforce training programs,” said Stewart Knox, California’s secretary of Labor and Workforce Development. “We’re working with industry leaders to understand what skills are needed now and what will be needed in the future so training can keep pace in real time.”

State officials acknowledged that technological innovation often results in layoffs in the short term, but they argue it can also generate entirely new categories of employment as industries evolve.