What would you have had the progressives (or conservatives) do? And of course new technology uses fewer hands, that’s the basis of the cost efficiency—so less need for people to connect bolt A to bolt B.
Well for a start off they can check existing legislation is not penalising business in any way, and that the entire of their area is “business friendly”. They can ensure the infrastructure (roads etc) that business needs is as well-maintained and efficient as possible. They can encourage partnerships between public schools and business so that the kids and the educators know what business is looking for in recruits. They can ensure there are enough and proper premises available. All of these things are in their purview and things they should be doing anyway.