A recent study by QA, a company that provides technology training and talent management services, revealed a significant gap between the adoption of AI tools in the workplace and the training employees receive to use them effectively. According to the study, 32% of employees have not received any formal AI training, and only 15% have access to ongoing or advanced support. Just 9% of employees consider themselves advanced or expert users, and only 13% feel comfortable using AI for basic tasks. Jo Bishenden, director of training at QA, emphasized that while many organizations invest heavily in AI tools, they often overlook the need to train employees who are expected to use them. This lack of training can prevent companies from fully realizing the benefits of AI. Other research, such as the Harvey Nash report on technology talent salaries, found that while 75% of IT staff have access to AI tools, one in five is expected to learn how to use them on their own, and 23% are waiting for formal training. Bishenden noted that the most effective AI training programs focus on three key areas: creating an accessible AI culture with a basic understanding of AI, providing role-specific learning opportunities, and encouraging behavioral changes that allow employees to fully leverage AI technologies. Ankur Anand, CIO of Harvey Nash, agrees that AI training must start with building fundamental skills, including security and ethics, from the very beginning. He stressed that everyone involved in AI use must understand their responsibilities to ensure effective and responsible deployment. At Sanofi, Emmanuel Frenehard, the company's digital director, implemented the "Drive Digital" program in collaboration with ESSEC, a business school in Paris. The initiative focused on practical AI applications and value creation, beginning with 100 executives and later expanding to over 1,500 employees. Frenehard said Sanofi continues to explore ways to enhance AI skills across the organization, including regular workshops and monthly "AI hacks" where experts teach employees how to create effective prompts for AI systems. Bishenden warned that a common mistake is for managers to focus on the tools themselves rather than the results they should produce. She emphasized that if employees can't use AI effectively, the technology won't deliver value. Training must lead quickly to practical applications that show how AI can help with real tasks like analysis, decision-making, communication, and leadership. Murali Swaminathan, technical director at Freshworks, compared AI training to giving someone a Formula 1 car without instructions—employees need guidance on best practices and the right tools to succeed in their roles. Ashwin Ballal, CIO at Freshworks, added that role-specific AI training should be reinforced with certifications, similar to how F1 drivers must learn the track and obtain licenses. He suggested different levels of certification, from general public to professional and advanced, to ensure employees are equipped with the right skills. Stephen Wood, operations director at Rathbones Asset Management, said his organization aims to provide ongoing AI training to its staff, using structures like "digital champions" to foster AI skills. His goal is to create a culture where AI is a constant part of employees' thinking and work. Louise Newbury-Smith, head of the UK and Ireland at Zoom, emphasized that continuous skill development is crucial. Her company has dedicated AI support teams that share success stories and best practices, helping employees understand and apply AI in practical ways. She noted that having skilled AI supporters, rather than just enforcing training, is key to making AI tangible and effective in the workplace.