Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce

United Kingdom | 28 November 2024
Reading Time : 3 minutes

AI and sustainability are reshaping the UK workforce, with seven in ten employees already experiencing the impact. Explore how these trends are transforming careers and download the report.

AI's Impact on the UK Workforce

The ‘Shaping Tomorrow’s Workforce’ campaign explores how AI and new technologies are already redefining the UK workplace, with 70% of employees experiencing AI's influence. Our recent survey, in partnership with Savanta, reveals that AI is more than a buzzword—it’s a driving force behind enhanced productivity and efficiency. Over a third (38%) of employees report increased efficiency, while 33% have seen productivity gains. Looking forward, 84% anticipate that AI's role will continue to grow, making it a crucial component in the future of work.

Employers are stepping up to ensure their teams are prepared for this AI-driven transformation. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of employees indicate their organisations are providing resources to help adapt to AI. This readiness is particularly evident in sectors like manufacturing and transport, where support for AI integration is notably high. These findings underscore the importance of businesses investing in AI training and resources to future-proof their workforce.

Our panel discussion at the launch event explored these insights. Moderated by Gavin Pearson, Editor of New Civil Engineer, the panel featured insights from Vashti Hale, Associate Director at Savanta, who presented the key findings, and Dan Scott, Director, Data Science at WSP, Mark Cameron, CEO of The 5% Club and Fiona Coleman, Industry Sales Director for High Tech Software & Business Services, Microsoft UK, who discussed the implications for business, including challenges and opportunities. The discussion also delved into the context of policy and practice as we examined how AI is reshaping job roles, influencing career decisions, and driving changes in today's workforce.

employees already experiencing AI's impact in the workplace

70%

expect AI’s role in the workplace to grow

84%

employees are willing to adapt their skillsets for sustainability

52%

Sustainability and its Growing Influence

The survey reveals a compelling trend: sustainability is no longer a secondary concern for employees; it's a priority. Over half (52%) of UK employees are willing to adapt their skillsets to be more sustainability-focused, signalling a clear shift towards greener careers. Furthermore, 45% would stay longer in jobs with stronger environmental policies, and 38% would consider changing jobs for an employer with more robust sustainability goals.

Despite these aspirations, there's a notable gap between employee expectations and current workplace practices. While nearly half are aware of recycling schemes, awareness of initiatives like renewable energy use (29%) and sustainability training (27%) remains low. This presents an opportunity for businesses to bridge the gap, align with employee values, and lead the way in sustainability.

Sustainability is becoming a core component of workplace culture and strategies for organisations to meet the rising demand for green practices are imperative. It's clear that a more sustainable workforce is on the horizon, driven by employees' desire to make an impact.

Workplace Changes

The survey results indicate that UK employees are ready for workplace changes driven by sustainability and AI, despite economic uncertainty. Over half (54%) feel prepared for shifts related to sustainability and climate change, while 47% are confident about adapting to AI-driven changes. This readiness reflects a growing resilience among employees as they navigate a rapidly evolving job landscape.

Interestingly, younger employees (aged 16-34) are at the forefront of this transformation, prioritising sustainability in their career decisions (66%) more than older age groups. Decision-makers also recognise this shift, with 68% considering sustainability a critical factor in their career planning.