From displacement to re-employment: Guiding workers through AI-driven change

Singapore’s National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) is helping workers navigate AI-driven job market changes through personalized career coaching and digital tools. After losing his digital banking job in July, Crizz Cheong struggled to secure new roles despite applying daily, eventually turning to private-hire driving for income. He later sought support from e2i, which combines AI-powered career guidance with human expertise to align skills with evolving job demands. The NTUC AI Career Coach (AICC), managed by e2i, analyzes resumes to identify strengths and gaps, suggests roles, and provides interview feedback. Cheong used the tool to refine his resume, addressing weaknesses in his earlier AI-generated version. Over 9,500 jobseekers have registered for the AICC, which helps workers present their qualifications more effectively when paired with career coaching. e2i’s approach integrates in-person guidance with digital tools, leveraging partnerships across industries, government agencies, and training providers. Deputy CEO Sivakami Gopalakrishnan emphasized the institute’s role in helping workers adapt early by identifying transferable skills and new capabilities needed in an AI-shaped economy. Master career coach Jurcannie Yeong noted that AI tools enhance preparation but require human insight to clarify career paths. Beyond coaching, e2i connects jobseekers to employers through career fairs and sector-specific hiring events. The NTUC Career Festival 2026, held February 13–14 at Sands Expo, focused on AI’s workplace impact and future skill requirements. The initiative aims to turn career guidance into tangible employment outcomes by bridging gaps between displaced workers and evolving industry needs. e2i’s 28 touchpoints nationwide provide resources and advisory services to support workers during transitions. The program’s success hinges on combining AI-driven insights with personalized coaching, ensuring jobseekers like Cheong can pivot confidently in a rapidly changing job market.