Despite growing enthusiasm for artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, most UK employees do not feel fully confident using it in their roles, according to new research from Strive Training. The study highlights a clear disconnect between widespread AI usage and the practical skills needed to use it effectively, exposing what Strive describes as a growing “AI confidence gap” across the workforce.
Strive Training has launched its findings following a multi-part research programme exploring employee attitudes, training access, and real-world outcomes from its 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.
The research draws on three datasets: a survey of 2,000 UK employees working in organisations with more than 10 staff; insights from 294 adult learners on AI attitudes and training needs; and post-course feedback from 32 participants in Strive Training’s pilot AI Skills programme.
Key findings from the research include:
- 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.
- 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 less likely to have access to useful 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.
- Feedback from Strive Training’s pilot AI Skills programme shows 91% of participants rated the course as Excellent or Very Good, with average confidence scores increasing from 5.2/10 before training to 8.8/10 after completion.
Jonny Phillips, Managing Director at UK training provider Strive Training commented on the findings:
“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.”
The findings reveal a clear “AI confidence gap” across the UK workforce. While the majority of employees express positive attitudes towards AI, confidence levels remain significantly lower, suggesting that enthusiasm is not being matched by capability.
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, reinforcing the need for structured, practical training.”
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.”
