May 2025
A new AWS-backed global study reveals that Learning and Development (L&D) leaders are at the heart of the generative AI transformation sweeping organizations in 2025.

The AWS Generative AI Adoption Index—based on responses from over 3,700 IT decision-makers—shows 56% of organizations have already launched AI upskilling programs, with another 19% set to follow this year. However, 52% struggle to assess employees’ AI training needs, highlighting a key challenge for L&D teams.
 

With 90% of organizations now using generative AI tools and nearly half moving past experimentation into full integration, the demand for AI talent is surging. An overwhelming 92% of companies plan to hire for AI-specific roles in 2025. A quarter expect at least half of their new hires to need AI skills.

To bridge the talent gap, businesses are combining internal training with external recruitment. Significantly, generative AI has overtaken cybersecurity as the top IT budget priority, and 60% of organizations have appointed a Chief AI Officer to lead the charge—further underscoring the strategic importance of talent readiness.

Despite momentum, barriers remain. Budget constraints, unclear training strategies, and lack of skilled instructors are slowing progress. Meanwhile, only 14% of companies currently have a change management plan in place, though that’s projected to rise to 76% by 2026.

In response, organizations are adopting blended approaches—building custom applications atop existing AI models and working closely with third-party vendors to scale.

For L&D leaders, the message is clear: success with AI depends as much on people as on platforms. Upskilling, workforce planning, and organizational agility are now critical to unlocking the full value of generative AI.


 
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