A survey of 2,000 UK employees, incorporated with learner data and real-world training outcomes, from Strive Training has highlighted how prepared, or unprepared, the UK workforce is for AI.

Despite rapid uptake of AI tools, 40% of employees have received no training, and only 25% say they fully understand how to use AI effectively in their role, raising concerns that organisations are embedding technology without equipping their people to use it properly.

The findings point to a growing “AI confidence gap”, where enthusiasm for AI is high, but practical skills and guidance are lacking, risking productivity, widening inequality, and creating a two-speed workforce.

The research explored employee attitudes, training access, and real-world outcomes from the Strive Training AI Skills initiative. The results suggest that while AI is rapidly becoming embedded in everyday work, many employees risk being left behind without the right support.

Only 25% of employees say they fully understand how to use AI effectively in their role, while 31% report only a basic understanding, and 44% have concerns ranging from uncertainty around company policy to questions about accuracy and reliability.

The survey found 64% of employees report a positive outlook on AI, including 26% who feel confident and in control, 25% who say they manage well but have some concerns, and 13% who are curious but lack experience.

40% of employees report receiving no AI training, and just 17% say their training has been highly engaging and practical, highlighting a significant gap in effective learning provision.

Older workers are disproportionately affected, with 56% of employees aged 45+ receiving no AI training, while regional disparities show employees outside London are also less likely to have access to sufficient training.

Among adult learners, 66.5% use AI at least occasionally, yet 31.5% report low confidence, despite over 75% expressing a willingness to learn more.

Learners show a clear preference for hands-on, practical training, favouring guided exercises and real-world scenarios over passive formats such as videos or written materials.

Jonny Phillips, Managing Director at Strive Training commented: “AI is already transforming the way we work, but our research shows that many employees are being expected to adapt without the right level of support. There is a clear gap between adoption and confidence. While people are open to using AI, they often lack the practical skills and guidance to use it effectively in their day-to-day roles.

“Closing this gap requires a shift away from passive learning towards hands-on, applied training that builds real capability. Without this, organisations risk leaving parts of their workforce behind in an increasingly AI-driven economy.”

Phillips continued: “Employees are also aware of the risks of falling behind. Concerns around accuracy, governance, and appropriate use indicate a lack of clarity and support at an organisational level”.

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The research also highlights a broader capability challenge. With 40% of employees receiving no AI training at all, and many reporting that existing training lacks relevance or engagement, there is a growing disconnect between employer expectations and workforce preparedness.

Phillips concluded: “As AI continues to reshape the workplace, the report calls for organisations to prioritise accessible, hands-on training to ensure employees can keep pace with technological change. Without this, the gap between those who can effectively use AI and those who cannot is likely to widen.”