AI rollout is outpacing worker training in UK firms

Companies are moving ahead with AI deployment faster than they are training staff, according to new research from TrustedTech, which warns this could create an “AI underclass” inside some organizations.

The report points to a sharp confidence gap in the UK workplace: around 74% of decision-makers said they feel confident using AI at work, compared with just 44% of junior workers. Training appears patchy too. About 38% of employees said they are self-taught in AI, while only 23% said they had received formal AI training from their employer.

That lack of support is not just about capability, but risk. 41% of workers said their employer does not provide enough AI safety and security training. Even so, nearly half, 47%, said it is their employer’s responsibility to provide training and upskilling.

“Employees are being told AI will transform the way they work, yet many have received little training on how to use it effectively, securely or confidently.” “The people who are most confident with AI will continue to build skills and productivity, while others risk being left behind through no fault of their own.”

Separate data from Notion suggests the same gap is showing up in organizational readiness. While 60% of AI decision-makers said their company is ready to deploy next-generation agentic AI, only 36% of employees agreed.

Notion also found 88% of workers remain at Levels 1 and 2 on its AI readiness scale, using the technology mainly as a brainstorming tool or assistant. Just 12% reached Levels 3 and 4, where AI is treated more like a teammate or built into system workflows.

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According to Andrew McCarthy, EMEA GM at Notion, the companies getting ahead are the ones pairing adoption with governance and oversight.

“The leaders pulling ahead are the ones doing it thoughtfully: integrating AI into how work runs, building trust across teams, and measuring real business impact.”