2024-25 | Future of Work

For Pedro Pazmino, a Master of Science in Information student on the UX research and design track, imagining the future of work quickly became literal. He had to decide how the phrase “Future of Work” should appear on the page or screen — bright and bold? Minimalist and modern? — and how it should make people feel.

This year’s theme, Future of Work, embodies UMSI’s commitment to exploring the intersection of technology and society in the rapidly evolving landscape of the modern workplace.

Technological advancements, remote work culture and global trends are shaping the nature of employment and redefining the concept of work itself. From the benefits of increased flexibility and skill development to the complexities of automation and job displacement, the Future of Work theme promises to ignite important discussions and inspire meaningful action.

Each UMSI theme year features special events, theme courses, a theme-specific category at the annual Exposition and funding for students who pursue theme-related projects. UMSI partners with organizations and subject matter experts to promote shared awareness and action.

Events

Future of Work events include a keynote on attracting and retaining talent in Michigan, a schoolwide case study competition, guest talks by UMSI advisory board members, and more.

Courses

Select courses will have a Future of Work theme that will manifest through data sets, client-based course projects or UX design challenges.

SI 305 - Introduction to Information Analysis
SI 307 - Introduction to User Experience Design
SI 500 - Problem-Solving with People, Information and Technology

Check out the full theme year website for additional information and contact the Engaged Learning Office team at [email protected] with specific questions.

Stories

Future of Work will be yearlong theme at UMSI

Through courses and events, the UMSI community will focus on topics like AI in the workplace, remote work, and the role of unions, aiming to create solutions for work’s evolving future.

An interior view of a vehicle as three UMSI students study the user interface, with one taking a photo on their cell phone

UMSI students gear up to create AI-powered auto UX designs

University of Michigan School of Information students will be in the driver’s seat this semester in SI 311.150: Automotive UX, as they tackle a design challenge that comes straight from industry.

Four members of the winning team pose with a giant check made out to Team Future

U-M students compete to shape Michigan’s innovation economy

Three teams competed as finalists in UMSI’s Future of Work Case Study Competition, pitching ambitious ideas for fostering entrepreneurship and keeping talented graduates in Michigan.

Madison Haack, Julia Cave Arbanas, Cameron Robertson and Austin Book pose on the second level of a museum with a life-size model of a prehistoric pterosaur visible behind them

UMSI alumna and students team up to shape future of AI in libraries and museums

Artificial intelligence is redefining what’s possible in libraries, archives and museums. Meet the UMSI alumna who is leading the charge, and the students she called on to help chart a path.