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About the Lab

The Working Futures Network is a distributed group of researchers, technologists, and activists investigating how emerging technologies impact communities and workers.

We build community-driven alternatives to extractive AI systems and support labor organizing in the algorithmic age. Our work spans empirical research, tool-building, and direct policy engagement. Our goal is to always be grounded in partnership with the communities most affected by the technologies we study.

Based at Penn State's College of Information Sciences and Technology and the Institute for Computational and Data Sciences, the lab is led by Dr. Dana Calacci. Our network extends across institutions and labor organizations nationwide.

what we focus on

AI & Communities

Building AI that centers community needs, studying how AI actually behaves in real-world use, and designing community-driven alternatives to extractive platforms

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Tech and Labor

Tools and research for gig workers, labor organizers, and those affected by algorithmic management.

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Platforms, Data, & Governance

Studying the interserction of platforms, data, and governance. Asking how we can use data to hold platforms accountable and build more just systems.

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Surveillance & Accountability

Critical analysis of surveillance technologies and AI hype, evaluating the risks and failures of AI in high-stakes settings like law enforcement

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community & labor partners

Through initiatives like the Workers Algorithm Observatory, we work alongside labor organizations and community groups, building tools and conducting research that directly serves their members.