74% of workers blame employers for the AI skills gap

AI skills gap widens as workers seek training: Recent survey data reveals a significant disconnect between employees’ desire to learn AI skills and the quality of training programs offered by their organizations.

The big picture: With AI expected to transform 92% of IT jobs, workers are eager to adapt but face challenges in accessing effective training opportunities.

• 35% of employees lack confidence in their current skill set for their roles
• 41% express concerns about job security due to skills gaps
• AI and machine learning (ML) are identified as the most critical skills gap by 43% of respondents

Surprising confidence among AI-deficient workers: Those who specifically identified AI/ML as their biggest skills gap showed more optimism about their ability to learn and adapt.

• Only 21% of AI/ML deficient workers lack confidence in their skills, compared to the 35% survey average
• 33% of this group noted job security concerns, lower than the 41% survey average
• This suggests a willingness and confidence to learn AI skills if given the opportunity

Organizational shortcomings in AI training: A majority of employees find their company’s AI training programs inadequate, highlighting a critical area for improvement.

• 74% of workers with AI/ML skills gaps rate their organization’s AI training programs as “average to poor”
• This compares to 62% of respondents overall who share this sentiment
• The disparity underscores the need for organizations to reassess and enhance their AI training initiatives

Barriers to effective professional development: Despite widespread availability of professional development plans, their effectiveness is questioned by employees.

• 95% of organizations have professional development plans in place
• However, only 25% of employees find these plans “highly effective”
• Key complaints include lack of time for training (43%), non-user-friendly learning formats (30%), and insufficient leadership support (26%)

The urgency for internal upskilling: Data suggests a pressing need for organizations to improve their learning and development programs to retain and advance talent.

• Less than half (47%) of employees are satisfied with their career advancement rate
• Only 37% of job openings are filled by internal candidates
• This highlights the importance of investing in employee development to address skills gaps and retain talent

Strategies for effective AI training: Experts recommend a holistic approach to workforce development that goes beyond simply adding more tools.

• Focus on employee needs and preferences in learning experiences
• Equip managers with tools for personalized career conversations
• Invest in AI-enabled skills management and talent marketplace platforms
• Adopt agile learning practices and foster a continuous learning culture

CIOs’ crucial role in AI training: As key players in setting workforce AI training agendas, CIOs must carefully consider program development.

• Ensure training programs are accessible and robust
• Address the apparent eagerness of employees to upskill in AI
• Tailor approaches to meet the specific needs of the organization and its workforce

Looking ahead: The AI skills imperative: As AI adoption accelerates, organizations must prioritize internal training programs to remain competitive and support employee growth.

• Recognize that hiring alone cannot solve the skills shortage
• Invest in comprehensive, user-friendly AI training initiatives
• Empower employees to take ownership of their skills development journey
• Create a culture that values and supports continuous learning in AI and related technologies