Just 10 percent of HR and L&D professionals say their workforce has the skills needed to meet business goals in the next two years

Skillsoft, an AI-powered workplace training provider, has shared the results of its 2025 Global Skills Intelligence Survey, which found that only ten percent of HR and earning and development professionals are confident their workforce has the skills needed to meet business goals over the next 12-24 months. 

Nearly a third (28 percent) of those surveyed said skills were a key factor that could make or break their organization.

Skillsoft surveyed 1,000 HR and learning and development professionals in the US, UK, Germany and Australia about their workforce. Leadership, AI, and technology were identified as the most significant areas for skills shortages.

Despite the urgency of the skills shortage, many organisations reported using outdated talent strategies and development programs. Only six percent of those surveyed said their systems were “outstanding” and only 20 percent said their strategy is aligned with organizational goals.

In the UK, AI skills were the most significant skills gap, with 30 percent of those surveyed citing concerns here, with leadership (26 percent) and technical skills (18 percent) also common concerns.

The speed of AI innovation was also a concern, with 24 percent of those surveyed worrying that the technology is advancing faster than workforce upskilling.

“Business transformation depends on the strength, adaptability, and skills of the workforce,” explains Ciara Harrington, Chief People Officer at Skillsoft. “These findings should be a wake-up call for every leader. Skills gaps are already impeding growth, and traditional approaches to talent development are only worsening the issue. 

“To compete in today’s human-AI world, organisations must place skills at the centre of their strategy and evolve toward integrated platforms that connect learning, skills intelligence, and performance in a single place, unlocking a workforce ready for change and innovation.” 

Earlier this year, Skillsoft announced that its platform is now available on the AWS Marketplace. Softskill’s launch on the platform makes it easier for organizations to purchase its AI-powered offering. 

The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026

The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.

Now open for entries, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the companies, platforms, and individuals driving transformation in the sector, from AI-driven assessment tools and personalized learning systems, to upskilling solutions and digital platforms that connect learners with real-world outcomes.

Submissions are open to organizations across the UK, the Americas, and internationally. Entries should highlight measurable impact, whether in K–12 classrooms, higher education institutions, or lifelong learning settings.

Winners will be announced on 14 January 2026 as part of an online showcase featuring expert commentary on emerging trends and standout innovation. All winners and finalists will also be featured in our first print magazine, to be distributed at BETT 2026.

To explore categories and submit your entry, visit the ETIH Innovation Awards hub.