Despite the progress that has been made, gender gaps in the workplace continue to have adverse effects on women across all industries—whether it is underrepresentation in leadership roles or a continuing lack of pay parity. These gender gaps extend into professional development opportunities, particularly as generative artificial intelligence transforms our economy.
In fact, recent research sponsored by DeVry University found that there are gender disparities in AI knowledge, upskilling utilization and perceptions about AI’s potential to support career growth. This has signaled that women may be at risk of falling further behind as the labor market is shaped by complex technologies—driving a critical need to empower them with the resources, flexibility and awareness they need to advance.
The research found that women do not see as many positive impacts of AI for their future, with men being over 50% more likely than women to report that AI will open more career opportunities for them. Men are also more likely to see AI as being helpful for their work, productivity and career progression. If women are not aware of the opportunities made possible by AI upskilling or reskilling, existing leadership and career advancement challenges for women could be intensified.
To shift this perception, HR leaders can more proactively educate their female employees about the benefits of learning AI skills. This could include efforts to demystify AI through awareness campaigns and introductory skills courses that illustrate practical applications and benefits of the technology.
Mentorship and networking opportunities can also help them see the value of developing the needed skills to succeed in their careers. Connecting women with peers and industry leaders provides the support and encouragement required for women to overcome potential apprehensions.
Differences in AI knowledge and learning access
The same research also revealed a prominent AI knowledge gap between men and women, with 82% of men saying they fully understand what AI means, compared to only 68% of women. This translates into skills differences, with 55% of men considering their AI skills to be intermediate or higher, but only 41% of women feeling the same.
This reality could be caused by the perceived lack of awareness from women about how the technology could benefit their career advancement. However, it could also be driven by a lack of continuing education, as men are more likely to report that they have access to and use their company’s upskilling and reskilling resources.
HR leaders should ensure they are providing equitable and useful training opportunities for all employees, which should include intentionally engaging female employees in company-funded learning pathways.
One approach to engaging women in AI-focused training opportunities is by showing how durable skills intersect with advanced technologies. Women already value critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with 65% reporting that these competencies are important for the future, compared to 51% of men. Integrating these durable skills into AI training will make the technology more approachable and relevant.
Flexible workplace and learning solutions
At a time when women are navigating return-to-office policies and other career barriers, implementing supportive workplace solutions for lifelong learning is crucial to maintaining an organizational reputation as one that supports flexibility. Providing flexible hours to learn as well as funding for women to pursue tech-focused education can motivate them to uplevel their AI proficiency.
Training programs that offer virtual, but also interactive, learning formats that accommodate busy schedules will make upskilling more accessible. In addition, when women see how AI can enhance their existing skills and potentially open new doors, the potential fear of the unknown diminishes.
Women should be playing an equal role in how the workplace embraces AI. While part of this requires individual ambition, HR leaders—with support from their companies—also should also be deliberate about removing barriers and ensuring women understand the significant role AI and upskilling can play in their future.
In order to stay ahead of evolving technology, including AI, and remain competitive, it’s important to provide intentional upskilling for all employees, regardless of background or career trajectory. By implementing targeted solutions and fostering an environment of support and inclusion, the combined impact of leadership with HR can ensure that women are not just participants in the current AI-driven transformation, but also leaders.
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