• Many companies are still focused on AI pilot programs rather than workforce training.
  
• When training is happening, it’s often inadequate or outpaced by AI advancements.
  
• Even when well executed, training may not keep up with the breakneck speed of AI evolution.
  
• Workers are using AI tools regardless, but without clear policies or training, this could lead to security, ethical, or operational risks.

AI upskilling efforts must navigate a complex landscape of challenges:

• Broader economic and societal shifts are reshaping job markets and skill demands.
• Digital literacy gaps persist, with many workers struggling to grasp not just AI but core digital skills.
• The AI divide is real — without deliberate intervention, those least likely to access education and skill development will fall even further behind.
• Higher education is struggling to keep pace, particularly institutions that serve working adults.
• Fear of obsolescence is driving anxiety — two-thirds of people globally believe AI will dramatically impact their lives in the near future.

A Roadmap for Smarter AI Upskilling

Recognizing the critical need for structured AI competency development, UpSkill America collaborated with the AI Alliance — a coalition of businesses, universities, research organizations, government entities, and nonprofits — to create the Guide to Essential Competencies for AI. This guide seeks to answer the “what” of AI skill-building by outlining key knowledge areas, from responsible AI use and data analysis to machine learning fundamentals. It provides a structured approach across different expertise levels, offering a potential foundation for organizations looking to establish AI training programs. However, the “how” of AI training remains a work in progress. And here’s where things get tricky.

The Training Dilemma: Scale vs. Effectiveness

To train at scale, organizations typically default to online, self-paced, modular programs. But here’s the issue — what we know about effective adult learning suggests that real learning happens through:

• Applied, hands-on experiences.
• Immediate relevance to daily work.
• Supportive and encouraging learning environments.
• Opportunities for feedback and real-world application.

So, while online training offers reach and flexibility, it risks being passive and forgettable if not thoughtfully designed.

Employers: Start with the Frontline

One critical takeaway for employers is this: prioritize your frontline workforce. Design AI training that is:

• Accessible: Ensure employees at all levels — not just executives — have entry points into AI learning.
• Relevant: Make AI skills training directly applicable to day-to-day tasks.
• Practical: Use hands-on, scenario-based learning rather than passive video modules.
• Clear: Define organizational AI guidelines, policies, and ethical boundaries.
• There are off-the-shelf AI training programs available, but organizations may need to customize their approach to align with their specific business needs. And most importantly, don’t assume upskilling is happening organically. Just because someone has experimented with ChatGPT or completed an online course doesn’t mean they understand how to use AI effectively within their specific industry or company culture.

The Urgent Need to Catch Up

The AI-driven transformation of our economy, workplaces, and society isn’t coming — it’s already here. And right now, our people, programs, policies, and workforce training strategies are struggling to keep pace. If we don’t act now, we risk deepening skill gaps, widening economic disparities, and leaving countless workers unprepared for the AI revolution. Employers, educators, and policymakers must step up, not just to pilot AI tools, but to ensure their workforce is ready to use them effectively, responsibly, and strategically. Because AI isn’t waiting for us to catch up.

About UpSkill America

UpSkill America, an initiative of the Aspen Institute Economic Opportunities Program, supports employers and workforce organizations to expand and improve high-quality educational and career advancement opportunities for America’s front-line workers. We seek to create a movement of employers, civic organizations, workforce intermediaries, and policymakers working collaboratively to implement education, training, and development strategies that result in better jobs and opportunities for front-line workers, more competitive businesses, and stronger communities. Follow us on LinkedIn and learn more at upskillamerica.org.