Illuminating the Path in AI Skills

Discover how IBM’s bold commitment to train two million learners in AI, with a focus on underrepresented communities, is bridging the global skills gap and shaping a more inclusive, tech-savvy future.

IBM has announced a commitment to bridge the global artificial intelligence (AI) skills gap by training two million learners in AI by the end of 2026, with a particular emphasis on underrepresented communities. To accomplish this ambitious goal on a global scale, IBM is expanding its collaborations with universities worldwide to enhance AI education. Additionally, they are partnering with organizations to provide AI training for adult learners and introducing new generative AI coursework through IBM SkillsBuild. These efforts will complement IBM’s existing programs and career-building platforms, offering improved access to AI education and high-demand technical roles.

According to a recent global study conducted by the IBM Institute of Business Value, surveyed executives estimate that approximately 40% of their workforce will need to reskill in the next three years, particularly those in entry-level positions. This highlights the increasing demand for new roles and skills driven by generative AI.

IBM’s Vice President & Chief Impact Officer, Justina Nixon-Saintil, emphasized the importance of AI skills in the future workforce and their commitment to reaching two million learners within three years. They are also expanding IBM SkillsBuild to collaborate with universities and nonprofits worldwide to provide generative AI education to learners.

IBM is actively working with universities worldwide to enhance AI capabilities, offering university faculty access to IBM-led training, including lectures and immersive skilling experiences. Faculty will receive certificates upon completion, and IBM will provide courseware for use in the classroom, including self-directed AI learning paths. IBM is also offering flexible and adaptable resources to students, including free online courses on generative AI and Red Hat open source technologies.

Through IBM SkillsBuild, learners across the globe can access AI education developed by IBM experts, covering the latest advancements in technology. The new generative AI curriculum includes courses such as Prompt-Writing, Getting Started with Machine Learning, Improving Customer Service with AI, and Generative AI in Action. The platform will feature AI-enhanced features, including chatbot improvements to support learners and tailored learning paths based on individual preferences and experiences. These courses are entirely free and open to learners worldwide, and participants can earn IBM-branded digital credentials recognized by potential employers upon course completion.

This new initiative builds upon IBM’s existing commitment to upskilling 30 million people by 2030 and aims to address the pressing needs of the current workforce. Since 2021, over 7 million learners have enrolled in IBM courses. The global skills gap remains a significant challenge in realizing the full potential of AI and digitalization, spanning industries and extending beyond technology experts. IBM’s approach focuses on making free online learning widely accessible, providing clear pathways to employment, and prioritizing historically underrepresented communities in the tech sector, where the skills gap is more pronounced.

IBM’s unwavering commitment to closing the global AI skills gap is not merely a promise but a profound step towards a more inclusive, knowledgeable, and technologically advanced future. By investing in the education and upskilling of two million learners, particularly from underrepresented communities, IBM is paving the way for a workforce equipped to harness the transformative power of artificial intelligence. As we embrace the potential of generative AI, these efforts are not just about addressing the immediate challenges but also about nurturing innovation, creating opportunities, and ensuring that AI benefits everyone, regardless of their background. With IBM’s dedication, millions of individuals worldwide will have the chance to acquire essential AI skills, shaping a brighter, more equitable future for all.