Natalie A. Pierce

Littler Mendelson’s Natalie Pierce said the firm’s robotics, artificial intelligence and automation practice was a reaction to their clients’ needs and desires.

“We look to help employers who are looking to include transformative technologies like biometrics, exoskeletons, using telepresence, and so many others,” Pierce said.

It can be difficult to advise companies in a n environment in which technology is outpacing the law’s understanding of it, but Pierce said it’s unwise to wait for the two to be synchronized.

“There’s no way that regulations are going to keep up with technologies, so it’s just going to be an ongoing problem for every corporation,” Pierce said. “But our message is we can’t wait. It’s never going to happen, so let’s just come up with best practices.”

Pierce’s expertise in labor and employment law connects to her work in artificial intelligence through an understanding of how these technologies will be changing the modern workplace. From training employees through augmented reality to what Pierce calls “collaborative robotics,” she said the possibilities are exciting and it’s important to get into the field now.

“It surprises me there are not many people in this space,” Pierce said. “When you don’t have the laws and regulations to go by, and you also want to embrace these new technologies because you know that they’re going to give you the competitive edge or maintain your competitive edge, you need somebody who can help tell you, ‘OK, here’s what I would recommend.’”

With the excitement also comes concern about how the technology is going to change the world in ways that can’t be anticipated. Pierce said the ethics of artificial intelligence, robotics and technology are on her mind as she thinks about how technology is evolving.

“I’m constantly surprised at the fact that more people aren’t really paying attention to what’s coming and getting ready and planning,” Pierce said. “We have to win this battle. I really believe that because there’s a lot at stake.”

— Nicole Tyau