Bridging the AI Skills Gap: How Employers Can Empower Older Workers Without Leaving Anyone Behind

Tech Secretary Calls on Older Workers to Embrace AI: What Can Firms Do to Prevent Staff Getting Left Behind?

Technology secretary Peter Kyle has urged businesses to “act now” by embedding artificial intelligence within their organisations and training employees to use this emerging technology. Following a new partnership with the private sector to deliver AI skills training, Kyle warned companies risk leaving staff behind if they don’t prioritize AI education.

He highlighted a generational gap, noting that those over 55 use AI half as much as people over 35. Yet, Kyle suggested this gap could be closed with just two and a half hours of focused training.

“The Future of Learning Is Human, But Powered by AI”

Kyle pointed out that employees don’t need deep technical knowledge but must understand the basics of how AI works and how to interact with it. This understanding can help individuals explore AI's potential in their roles.

This call to action follows a meeting with major companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft to plan training for a fifth of the UK workforce in essential AI skills by 2030.

Why Training Alone Isn’t Enough

HR experts caution that Kyle’s two-and-a-half-hour training claim oversimplifies the challenge. Sarah Hamilton-Gill, founder of Globus HR Consulting, emphasizes the issue is not age or reluctance to learn but a “confidence and context gap.”

Older professionals often feel disconnected because past training was irrelevant. They’ve witnessed technologies come and go without seeing practical benefits. What they need is clear guidance on how AI can help them perform better at work.

Kelly Venkiah, HR consultant, agrees that the problem goes beyond knowledge. Confidence, mindset, and previous experiences shape how different generations engage with AI. Younger employees, having grown up with digital tools, tend to adapt more fluidly, while older staff may proceed with caution.

However, Venkiah warns against stereotyping. Many over 55 are highly engaged with AI, while some younger workers feel overwhelmed by the pace and purpose of AI tools.

Practical Steps Employers Can Take

The government’s civil service trial gave 20,000 staff access to AI tools for three months. They used AI for drafting, summarizing emails, updating records, and preparing reports. The trial saved each person an average of 26 minutes per day—almost two weeks per year.

Following this success, a new AI tool called Humphrey was launched across the civil service.

So how can employers replicate these benefits without leaving employees behind?

• Create a Supportive Environment: Rob Baker from Tailored Thinking advises fostering a culture where employees feel encouraged to experiment with AI. It’s not just about training but building energy, opportunity, and understanding around change.
• Focus on Real Training: Hamilton-Gill stresses the importance of practical, relevant training over generic webinars. Use real-world examples and hands-on demonstrations to show how AI enhances daily tasks.
• Embed AI in Workflows: Encourage learning through ongoing conversations and collaboration. Senior staff should lead by example, openly acknowledging what they’re learning instead of pretending expertise.
• Address Confidence and Trust: Older employees represent an untapped opportunity when given the right tools and trust—not patronizing shortcuts.

For HR professionals looking to support their teams with AI skills, exploring comprehensive training programs can be a smart move. Platforms like Complete AI Training offer courses tailored to different roles and skill levels, helping bridge the gap effectively.

Conclusion

Closing the AI skills gap across generations requires more than quick training sessions. It demands thoughtful investment in relevant learning experiences, confidence building, and creating a culture where experimentation with AI is encouraged and supported.

By doing this, employers can ensure their entire workforce benefits from AI advancements, avoiding the risk of leaving anyone behind.