Many companies are deploying AI faster than they are preparing their employees, leading to an “AI underclass” in some companies.

A report reveals that 38% of employees consider themselves self-taught in AI, and only 23% have received formal training.
Nearly half believe it is the employer’s responsibility to provide development opportunities
88% of workers are at level 1-2 on the readiness scale, only 12% are at level 3-4

A new study from TrustedTech warns of an “AI underclass,” in which unequal access to AI training and support could end up creating a split workforce.

The data claims that around three in four UK decision-makers (74%) feel confident using AI at work, and yet only 44% of younger workers feel the same.

The report also reveals that formal training in AI is quite uneven, with around two in five employees (38%) describing themselves as self-taught in AI.

Insufficient AI training creates an emerging divide

Additionally, less than a quarter (23%) say they have received AI training from their employer, and 41% criticize their workplace for not providing enough safety and security training. But despite widespread self-learning, nearly half (47%) believe it is the employer’s responsibility to support training and skills development efforts.

“Employees are being told that AI will transform the way they work, but many have received little training on how to use it effectively, securely or confidently,” warned Julian Hamood, visionary director of TrustedTech.

“The people who have the most confidence in AI will continue to develop their skills and productivity, while others risk being left behind through no fault of their own.”

This all comes against a backdrop of growing investments in AI and ongoing deployments. Separate data from Notion found that 60% of AI decision-makers believe their organization is ready to deploy next-generation agentic AI, but only 36% of employees would agree.

According to Notion’s report, 88% of workers are at levels 1 and 2 of AI readiness, viewing the technology as a brainstorming tool or assistant, leaving only 12% at levels 3 (teammate) and 4 (system workflow).

One of the biggest differentiators that sets advanced organizations apart, according to Notion, is effective governance and oversight, which aligns with TrustedTech’s findings that workers lack sufficient guidance.

“Leaders who move forward are those who do it thoughtfully: integrating AI into the way work happens, building trust across teams, and measuring real business impact,” wrote Andrew McCarthy, managing director of EMEA.

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