As AI workplace readiness looms, American workers prepare themselves
72% believe AI can be highly impactful for work in their industry (if used appropriately).
As the business world shifts to integrate AI into daily work, a new national survey reveals how professionals and educators perceive the technology’s potential impact.
Alarmingly, half of the professional workforce (48%) is concerned they will be left behind in their careers if they do not learn how to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into their jobs. These findings are according to a new report released by Washington State University’s Carson College of Business in collaboration with KRC Research, and examined the American workforce’s preparedness for the use of AI. The report surveyed 1,200 full-time working adults in the U.S. with careers in management or professional, and work with computers or tech devices.
Today, over half of American professionals (56%) say they use AI on a daily basis. Its uses range from using generative AI to produce content to analyzing data from predicted trends.
- 72% believe AI can be highly impactful for work in their industry (if used appropriately)
- 52% believe AI will pose dangers that can negatively impact their organization and organizational/employee safety
Many workers feel unprepared and overwhelmed by the change. Nearly half (49%) of professionals report their organization has not provided any resources on AI. A similar percentage (51%) are concerned their organization will fall behind in its industry if it does not embrace AI.
A majority (83%) of professionals agree that today’s college graduates should be prepared to use AI upon their entry into the workforce. Many see a responsibility for higher education in preparing future graduates to use AI.
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“For educators, the evolution of AI underscores the importance of equipping our students with innovative tools that are reshaping work across diverse sectors,” said Debbie Compeau, Carson College of Business interim dean. “When we embrace the potential of AI to create value and transform work—while also addressing legitimate concerns regarding its use and impact—we create a learning environment that allows our students to excel in an AI-driven future.”
- 74% of professionals believe incoming college graduates should already have experience using AI
- 88% believe U.S. colleges and universities should provide educational opportunities for students to learn about AI and its practical uses