Rise in Employee-Driven Upskilling Reflects Evolving Workforce Needs
Employees in Ireland are increasingly taking charge of their own career development through proactive upskilling efforts, according to a new report by Skillnet Ireland. Titled ‘Lifelong Learning and the Future of Work’, the report highlights that 90% of those employed view upskilling and reskilling as critical for professional success. Further reflecting this trend, over 85% of respondents have engaged in upskilling within the past year, often through accredited training programmes.
Demand for Digital and AI Skills Grows
The survey by Skillnet Ireland, the national workforce development agency, indicates that digital, technical, and management skills are top priorities for one in five respondents. Notably, 55% anticipate the need for AI upskilling to secure their future career prospects. These findings underscore a growing commitment among Irish workers to adapt to technological, economic, and environmental changes.
Dave Flynn, Director of Business Networks at Skillnet Ireland, noted that the collaboration between industry bodies and Skillnet Ireland facilitates targeted business support. “Through our 70 Skillnet Business Networks and five national initiatives, we deliver training aligned with sectoral needs, allowing employees to acquire skills directly applicable in the workplace,” Flynn said.
Technology Reskilling: A Necessity for Job Security
Emphasising the importance of technology reskilling, Flynn elaborated on Skillnet Ireland’s latest strategy, Empowering Enterprise 2026-2028. This strategic plan focuses on enhancing Ireland’s economic competitiveness through digitalisation, AI, and sustainability. The survey reveals that in Cork alone, 57% of workers identify AI training as crucial for their careers, with nearly a third prioritising digital upskilling.
In 2025, Skillnet Ireland supported technology reskilling initiatives benefiting over 12,655 workers and 2,412 companies. Programmes ranged from AI and data analytics to cybersecurity and automation, equipping businesses to thrive amid technological disruptions.
Evolving Perceptions of AI in the Workplace
As AI becomes more prominent in business operations, both employers and employees are recognising its growing impact. The Lifelong Learning and Future of Work survey highlights a desire among workers for AI upskilling, with a quarter of respondents seeking AI training within the next one to three years. The survey also indicates that Irish businesses value workforce development, with 74% of Cork respondents acknowledging employer support for upskilling.
Skillnet Ireland’s engagement with industry highlights the shifting demand for AI skills, extending beyond technical expertise to include strategic thinking and ethical considerations. Their AI programmes, designed in collaboration with educational institutions, aim to demystify AI’s role for non-technical decision-makers.
Benefits for Employers Engaging with Skillnet Ireland
Employers also stand to gain significantly from collaborating with Skillnet Ireland. The government-subsidised training programmes provided to over 23,000 companies in 2025 have enabled 85,000 individuals to enhance their skills. By partnering with 57 industry bodies, Skillnet Ireland tailors training to meet specific business needs, addressing skills shortages and the demand for high-level qualifications.
Workforce development remains a priority for Ireland as the nation faces challenges related to an ageing population and a rapidly evolving job market. Businesses are encouraged to engage with Skillnet Business Networks and take advantage of the diverse training opportunities available, ensuring their employees are well-equipped for future challenges.
For further details, refer to the original source at Irishexaminer.com.
