American tech positions have been seeing continual decrease in job security going back to January 2023 when sizeable layoffs began. According to Boundless research, more than 300,000 tech workers have lost their job, despite an increase in H1-B visas for tech positions increasing year-over-year and a dropping denial rate under the Biden administration.
Views of the Tech Labor Market Among Demographic Groups
Political affiliation appears to play a significant role in how people perceive and discuss tech layoffs. Some Americans, particularly those who lean Republican, criticize President Joe Biden's administration for perceived failures related to job numbers and immigration. They argue the job numbers do not add up and suggest the administration's immigration policies are a contributing factor.
Others, who align more with the Democratic party, dispute these claims. They argue that immigration has not negatively impacted the economy and job numbers.
Age also seems to play a role in the discussions, with younger users expressing more pessimism about the job market. These voters often share personal experiences of struggling to find employment despite numerous applications. They argue the positive job reports do not reflect the reality on the ground, suggesting a disconnect between the official data and actual experience of job seekers.
Economic class is another significant factor in the conversation. Voters from lower economic classes express frustration and distress about financial struggles despite positive job reports. This suggests a dissatisfaction with the current economic situation. They criticize officials like Janet Yellen for allegedly being out of touch with the economic realities facing ordinary Americans.
What Influences Sentiment on Jobs
Sentiment regarding tech and other sector layoffs can increase or decrease due to various factors. Negative news about the tech industry, such as reports of mass layoffs or declining profits, can increase negative sentiment. Conversely, positive news, such as reports of job growth or increasing profits, can decrease negative sentiment and increase positive sentiment.
Sentiment towards tech layoffs seems to become more negative when people feel reported job numbers do not reflect their personal experiences or when they perceive government officials as being out of touch with the reality of job seekers. Conversely, sentiment appears more positive when job growth is reported, particularly when it points to continued economic strength. However, skepticism remains among some who question the accuracy of these reports.
Boeing’s PR disaster in recent months over recurring safety complications is not letting up. American voters are feeling overwhelmingly negative about the jet company – expressing fear and criticism. There is a strong sense of frustration and disappointment with the company's handling of the safety issues. One particular issue people bring up is the incident involving the door panel of a Boeing 737 Max plane blowing out mid-flight.
Boeing sentiment has been hovering in the mid 40% range while online discussion continues to grow more negative.
Safety Concerns for American Travelers
There is a clear concern about how safe Boeing planes are for passengers, particularly the 737 Max. People recurringly mention a near-collision incident involving a Boeing 737 Max and a Boeing 777, which, among other events, is fueling safety concerns.Some Americans question the safety of Boeing aircraft and often express nervousness about traveling in them.
Following the death of Boeing whistleblower John Barnett, more people are discussing their view of a decline in Boeing's quality and the impact of rushing projects. People are relating the problems topoor management and the company's focus on profits over audits and worker wellbeing, and a growing sense of incompetence in modern society.
The disapproval of safety standards at Boeing are not generally partisan, however right leaning Americans are more likely to bring up DEI, criticizing its woke impact on Boeing's operations. They suggest that DEI is partially responsible for the company's difficulties and call for its removal.
Reactions to Boeing CEO’s Resignation
The public seems to believe Boeing's priorities are more focused on production than on safety and quality. Some even go so far as to suggest that all Boeing aircraft should be melted down and started over.
Boeing CEO Dave Calhoun’s resignation is seen by many as a positive step. But there is also skepticism about whether this will lead to any real changes in the company's approach to safety.
American appear to have a generally negative view of Dave Calhoun and his leadership at the company. They also criticize the executive and management levels of leadership broadly.
There is some public relief at the news of Calhoun's resignation, and some suggest the entire company needs a complete overhaul or "start over." Public views on the company’s brand value indicates widespread dissatisfaction with Boeing's current image.
While some see Calhoun’s resignation as an appropriate response to the company's troubles, others question the timing and express cynicism about the executives' motives.
There is also criticism of large exit packages for departing executives, especially in the light of perceived gross negligence in handling safety issues. Some express concerns about the future of Boeing as a leader in the industry given the ongoing crises.
General Criticism of the Company
There are calls for more accountability and transparency from Boeing, with some suggesting that more information should be released about safety incidents and negligence allegations. Some even raise questions about potential criminal charges or ethical investigations related to safety issues and suspicion around John Barnett’s death.
Overall, public sentiment indicates a lack of trust or confidence in Boeing and its leadership, as well as increasing fear of boarding a Boeing jet. The way the company handles this crisis and its commitment to safety and quality moving forward will likely influence public perception and trust in the company.