Artificial intelligence is no longer an emerging trend, it is a workplace reality. From automation tools and smart assistants to predictive analytics and real-time content generation, AI is already reshaping how teams operate. But while the tools are becoming more powerful, the real advantage lies in how people use them. Organisations that proactively train their teams in AI are better positioned to improve productivity, strengthen resilience, and lead with confidence into the future of work.

AI is becoming embedded in the platforms many businesses already use, from Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT to the analytics CRMs and business platforms. As these capabilities become a part of daily workflows, organisations face a choice: leave employees to navigate new tools on their own or provide structured training that builds understanding, confidence and meaningful adoption. The latter approach is what allows AI to become a genuine driver of innovation rather than just adding another layer of complexity.

What Does AI Education Look Like?

AI education doesn’t need to be overly technical. The most effective training focuses on practical, role specific applications that employees can use straight away. This might include

• Understanding AI
  What AI is, what it isn’t, and how it’s shaping the workplace
• Using everyday AI tools
  Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT and/or Google Gemini and how to set them up in your browser
• Prompting and task automation
  Writing effective prompts to generate better results, faster
• Ethical and secure use of AI
  Awareness of limitations, data handling and fair use practices
• Real-world use cases
  Tailored examples for professionals, business leaders, IT teams, and project manager

The benefits of educating employees in this space are wide-ranging. At the most immediate level, staff can automate routine tasks, generate content in minutes and make better decisions through data-driven insights. Over time, this translates into improved productivity, greater engagement and a stronger sense of confidence in using new tools.

There are also cultural benefits: employees who feel supported in adapting to change are more likely to stay and grow within an organisation, while teams that understand AI are better equipped to explore new ways of working and problem-solving. Perhaps most importantly, proper training reduces the risks of misuse, helping to avoid ethical pitfalls, misinformation, or security vulnerabilities that can arise from unstructured adoption.

Preparing for Change with Confidence

The need for this kind of preparation is urgent. Research from the World Economic Forum predicts that more than half of all employees will require reskilling by 2025 as automation and AI reshape roles across industries. Despite this, most employees today have had little or no formal training in how to use AI tools at work. Without guidance, uncertainty grows, and businesses risk falling behind. With it, employees gain clarity, capability, and confidence to harness AI in ways that support both individual and organisational growth.

The pace of AI innovation will not slow down, but with the right training, teams can keep up and even lead the way. By equipping employees with the skills to understand and apply AI thoughtfully, organisations not only unlock new efficiencies but also empower their people to innovate, collaborate, and thrive in a rapidly changing world. Educating employees on AI is no longer optional; it is a must have for any business preparing for the future of work.

Join Us at Odyssey Training

We believe AI readiness starts with people, not platforms. Our AI in the Workplace course is designed to help employees feel confident, competent, and curious about the tools shaping tomorrow’s work.

With Odyssey’s AI training, your team will learn to:

• Identify where AI is already in use across the business
• Use tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini
• Write more effective prompts
• Understand limitations and ethical risks
• Embrace AI as a support, not a replacement

Courses are led by experienced facilitators and tailored to the needs of each organisation, ensuring that learning is both relevant and sustainable.

Enhance your computer training skills with courses at Odyssey Training. Odyssey Training is dedicated to equipping the nation’s workforce with the skills to enhance their competitiveness in the workplace. Discover our range of Microsoft Office courses.