The Impact of AI Growth on Workplace Training: A National Survey Reveals Serious Gaps

In today's rapidly evolving job landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an integral part of the workplace. A recent national survey conducted by Jobs for the Future (JFF) sheds light on the growing importance of AI in employee roles while exposing critical deficiencies in training initiatives designed to equip workers with the necessary skills to navigate this technological shift.

According to the survey, the past two years have seen a dramatic spike in AI usage among U.S. workers, jumping from a mere 8% in 2023 to a striking 35% in early 2025. Among those currently engaged in education or training, this trend is even more pronounced, with 59% of learners declaring they use AI tools on a weekly basis. Despite the increasing reliance on AI, a significant 56%* of participants claim they feel unprepared to harness these technologies effectively in their professional lives.

Key Findings from the Survey

The report brings into focus several crucial points regarding the current state of AI preparation:
1. AI Usage Outpacing Training: Despite the rise in AI engagement, only 31% of surveyed workers reported receiving any employer-provided training on AI tools. Instead, the majority are utilizing AI on their own, largely for self-directed learning, where 60% indicated they take this initiative.
2. Growing Classroom Adoption: The integration of AI finds its way into education as well, with close to 59% of learners using AI technologies in their studies. This is a substantial increase from just 15% in 2023, indicating that educational institutions are beginning to adapt to the changing landscape.
3. Individual Initiative Driving AI Usage: The findings indicate that AI utilization is largely propelled by individuals rather than organizational guidance. Workers are more inclined to use AI independently at a rate of 20% compared to just 11% at their employer's direction.
4. Evolving Career Aspirations: The survey also highlights a transformation in career outlook influenced by AI. Approximately 77% of respondents anticipate AI will affect their future careers within 3-5 years. As many as 70% of respondents of color expressed a heightened awareness of the need for upskilling due to the rise of AI.
5. Disparity in Resources: Alarmingly, just 16% of participants had access to paid AI tools provided by their employers, while others resorted to personal investments for such tools. This is indicative of a larger trend where underrepresented demographics, including people of color and formerly incarcerated individuals, face additional barriers in accessing AI-related resources.

The Path Forward: Enhancing AI Training Initiatives

Kristina Francis, Executive Director of JFFLabs, underscores a crucial message regarding the role of AI: “AI should make us all better off by creating quality jobs, pathways to entrepreneurship, sustainable livelihoods, and opportunities to unleash human agency and potential.” Yet, the current training landscape fails to adequately address these aspirations.

As industries continue to accelerate adoption of AI technologies, immediate action is paramount to mitigate widening divides in workforce preparedness. Both educational institutions and employers must prioritize the integration of AI training within professional development programs. Modernized learning paths that specifically address AI competencies will not only help workers adapt but also empower them to shape technological evolution rather than be left behind.

In summary, as AI transforms the fabric of work and learning, access to comprehensive training will be a crucial factor determining overall job quality and economic opportunity. Stakeholders in education and industry must align their efforts to ensure all workers can harness the potential of AI technology effectively, contributing to a more equitable workforce.

For further insights and detailed findings, the complete survey results are available on JFF's official website.

About Jobs for the Future (JFF)

JFF passionately aims to create a future that works for everyone by reforming U.S. education and workforce systems, driving economic success within diverse communities. www.jff.org