Future of work

Main findings  

AI adoption is increasing across Canadian workplaces, but many employees are not receiving formal training on how to use AI tools effectively.

Key takeaways

• Sixty-three per cent of Canadian companies report that they now use AI.
• AI adoption is more common in white-collar roles (68%) and at larger firms (77%).
• Among firms using AI, 73% reported increased reliance on it in the past year.
• Most workers (79%) and employers (77%) say formal AI training is needed.
• Some employees say they have been expected to use AI tools without receiving structured training or guidance.

Plain language summary 

According to the results of a job insights survey, Canadian firms are increasingly adopting AI tools in workplace operations.

The findings also suggest that many workers are not receiving formal training on using AI tools in their jobs. Yet at the same time, both employers and workers said they think training is important for effective AI use.

AI adoption was not evenly distributed across workplaces. Larger organizations and white-collar roles reported higher levels of AI use than did smaller firms and other occupations. This suggests that access to AI tools and training may vary across industries and job types.

Overall, the findings show that workplaces continue to adopt AI while also having ongoing discussions about training, workforce preparedness, and the practical use of AI tools on the job.

Why the results matter

For post-secondary institutions and students:

The findings suggest that AI tools are becoming more common in many workplaces. Post-secondary institutions may need to consider incorporating AI literacy and digital skills into a wider range of programs and disciplines.

For employers and employment services:

Employers adopting AI tools may also need to train employees to use these tools effectively. Employment services may see growing demand for digital skills support and AI-related training resources.

For educators, CDPs, and job seekers:

Workers may increasingly encounter AI tools in their jobs or during job searches. CDPs can help job seekers understand how AI is being used in different occupations and what skills employers may expect.

For people in the LMI ecosystem:

The survey highlights the importance of tracking not only AI adoption, but also how organizations support workforce training and implementation.

For most Canadians:

AI tools are becoming more common in Canadian workplaces. How employers introduce these tools and support employee training may affect how workers experience and respond to technological change on the job.

Definitions

• AI

Computer systems or tools designed to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as generating text, analyzing information, or automating processes.

• AI literacy

The ability to understand and use AI tools effectively and responsibly.

• White-collar roles

Jobs that are typically office-based or professional in nature.

Notes and important disclaimers

• The findings are based on survey responses and reflect reported experiences and perceptions at the time of data collection.
• Reported AI adoption rates may vary depending on how respondents define or interpret AI tools.
• The survey does not measure the effectiveness or long-term impact of workplace AI adoption.