Unsurprisingly, more workers report using Artificial Intelligence in their daily lives than just two years ago (35% compared to 8% in 2023). What is startling is that a high percentage of those who report increased use of AI at work are doing so at their own behest rather than encouragement or direction from their employer.
According to a 2024 survey by Jobs for the Future (JFF), 60% of workers polled reported using AI for self-directed learning. They also stated they were twice as likely to use AI on their own initiative at work (20%) versus at their employer’s direction (11%).
JFF, a national nonprofit that provides consulting and strategy services to promote economic advancement and college and career readiness, polled more than 2,700 workers across an array of demographic groups.
Only 16% of respondents reported having access to paid AI tools from their employer or educational institution. About 10% said they were personally paying for the tools, and people of color were more likely to report paying for them (15%).
The impact of AI on careers in the next three to five years is apparent but is just beginning to influence workers’ future plans for career and skill development.
77% of respondents said they believe AI will impact the job or career they expect to have in the next 3-5 years.
19% of respondents said they are actively pursuing different careers (7%) or considering changing plans in the near future (12%) due to AI-driven transformation – and 19% said they have already used AI tools to obtain a better job.
Download the JFF report on AI’s Impact on Work and Learning.
