How access to training and tools "in the moment" can help ensure everyone wins in the AI race
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI (GenAI), has the potential to reshape industries and careers on a scale comparable to the internet revolution. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2023 highlights that nearly a quarter of all jobs worldwide will undergo significant changes within the next five years, with AI as a central force driving this transformation.
As we stand on the cusp of this seismic shift, the question arises: how do workers feel about the AI-driven future? CYPHER Learning sought to answer this by surveying 4,543 workers across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Mexico, representing various industries. The results paint a picture of cautious optimism tempered by concerns about fairness, equity, and the risk of deepening digital divides.
AI's transformative impact on roles
A significant majority of workers—78%—anticipate that AI will impact their roles within the next two years. However, this widespread acknowledgment of AI's influence is accompanied by unease. For example, 38% of respondents believe they will need to retrain as their current jobs could become obsolete. This statistic underscores a fundamental anxiety: the fear of being left behind in a rapidly evolving job market.
Yet, it's not all doom and gloom. Many workers are already reaping the benefits of AI in their daily tasks. Sixty-two percent say new technologies are reshaping their roles for the better, with 46% specifically highlighting how AI is making their jobs easier. This duality of fear and optimism is at the heart of the current AI discourse.
The need for AI skill development
While the majority of workers recognize the importance of AI skills—73% believe these skills will be crucial to their roles over the next five years—there is a stark gap in training. Only 25% of workers have received any form of AI training, highlighting a critical area that needs attention if we are to bridge the digital divide.
Despite the lack of formal training, there is a strong interest in AI among workers. Over half (53%) enjoy experimenting with AI, and 41% have already used GenAI in their workplace. However, this enthusiasm is not universal. A notable 33% of workers believe AI should be banned in the workplace, indicating a significant level of discomfort and distrust surrounding the technology.
The age and gender divide
Concerns about AI's impact are particularly pronounced among older workers. Fifty-seven percent of respondents aged 55 and above feel they are aging out of the workplace, and 45% worry that AI could jeopardize their job security. These findings highlight a potential age-related digital divide, where older workers may feel marginalized or left behind as AI becomes more prevalent.
The survey also reveals disparities based on location and occupation. Workers in the UK are lagging behind their counterparts in the US and Mexico in terms of AI adoption and the perceived benefits of the technology. Similarly, women, older workers, and those in manual or clerical roles report fewer opportunities to engage with AI. This indicates a risk that these groups may be disproportionately affected by the AI revolution unless proactive steps are taken to ensure equitable access to AI tools and training.
The path forward: continuous learning and equitable access
The survey findings underscore the urgent need for personalized, relevant, and timely training that empowers all workers to adapt to and thrive in an AI-driven world. To prevent AI from exacerbating existing digital divides, it is essential to foster a culture of continuous learning. Organizations must prioritize the provision of on-the-job training and resources that allow workers to develop AI skills "in the moment."
By doing so, we can ensure that the benefits of AI are distributed more equitably, enabling everyone—not just a select few—to succeed in the AI race. As the landscape of work continues to evolve, the onus is on employers, policymakers, and educators to provide the necessary tools and support to bridge the AI digital divide.
Next steps
To delve deeper into these insights and understand how AI is reshaping the workforce, read the full survey report: Bridging the AI digital divide. Discover how access to training and tools can make a difference in ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to win in the AI race.
