Workers Express Concerns Over AI Training Gaps

March 27, 2025 – A new national survey has revealed that more than half of U.S. workers are beginning to experience the impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on their jobs and career paths, yet most feel ill-equipped to navigate this transformation.

The survey, conducted by Jobs for the Future (JFF) in collaboration with AudienceNet, highlights a startling increase in AI usage among the workforce. While the percentage of workers utilizing AI in their jobs has surged from 8% in 2023 to 35% in 2025, worker training has failed to keep pace, leaving many feeling unprepared for the technological shift.

AI Usage on the Rise

According to the survey findings, 59% of learners currently enrolled in educational or training programs indicate they use AI tools at least once a week. This marks a significant leap from previous years, where engagement with AI tools stood at only 15%. In contrast, over half of the workers surveyed—56%—reported feeling unprepared to employ AI in their work effectively.

Many respondents indicated that AI usage was primarily self-directed, with 60% using AI for personal learning purposes. Notably, a substantial segment of the workforce—20%—reported using AI independently without employer guidance.

‘AI should create opportunities for better jobs and entrepreneurial pathways,’ noted Kristina Francis, Executive Director of JFFLabs. ‘As AI continues transforming the landscape of work and education, access to effective training becomes increasingly vital.’

Training Gaps Highlighted

While the adoption rate of AI showcases positive potential, the disparity in training presents a pressing concern. The findings reveal that only 31% of workers indicated their employers provided adequate training on AI tools. A staggering 60% of workers rely on self-directed learning methods for AI applications.

• 57% of workers reported feeling a strong impact from AI, mainly in automating repetitive tasks and reducing manual labor.
• Among educational settings, 57% of learners noted that instructors had integrated AI into their curriculum.

The Future Workforce and AI

A significant 77% of respondents believe that AI will influence their career trajectory within the next three to five years. Notably, individuals from diverse backgrounds faced a heightened sense of urgency regarding the need for new skills, with 70% of respondents of color expressing the desire to upskill due to AI developments.

‘As we navigate this evolving marketplace, we must ensure that technological advancements enhance the quality of jobs and empower learners,’ stated Michael Collins, Senior Vice President of Population Strategies.

As the landscape of work shifts dramatically, JFF emphasizes the importance of developing policies and practices to harness the potential of AI while mitigating its risks. For more insights on integrating AI in workforce development, visit Facility Executive.