As AI adoption accelerates across industries, the workplace is entering a new era of learning and flexibility. Bright Horizons (NYSE: BFAM) latest EdAssist Education Index, conducted by The Harris Poll, underscores one clear message: employers who invest in education benefits and AI literacy now will gain a competitive edge in retention, productivity, and innovation as 2026 approaches.
The AI Adoption Gap and Worker Pressure
The report highlights a growing tension between opportunity and risk for employees. While 42% expect their roles to change significantly due to AI within the next year, only 17% use AI frequently today. Meanwhile, 34% feel unprepared for AI-driven changes, and 42% say their employers expect them to learn AI independently.
Pressure is mounting: 79% of workers feel the need to acquire new skills, 32% say AI has intensified that pressure (up from 26% last year), and more than 80% report having to take on additional work or deliver results faster. These statistics suggest that flexibility and stress reduction are no longer perks—they are strategic imperatives.
AI Training as a Retention Tool
“AI is rewriting job descriptions faster than most organizations can keep up,” said Priya Krishnan, Chief Transformation Officer at Bright Horizons. “Employers who act now will not only close critical skill gaps but also build a culture of resilience and innovation. Education benefits, flexible learning, and AI literacy are the foundation for long-term competitiveness.”
The EdIndex shows that 85% of employees would be more loyal to an employer investing in continuing education, and 55% say AI training or certification would increase their likelihood to stay. When employers provide AI training, adoption jumps to 76%, compared with just 25% without support—underscoring a clear ROI for workplace learning programs. Financial barriers remain, however, with 48% avoiding further education due to fear of student debt, emphasizing the need for employer-sponsored programs.
Five Key Predictions for 2026
The report outlines five actionable trends for employers preparing for 2026:
- AI literacy becomes mandatory: Embed AI training in onboarding and ongoing learning to ensure employees confidently leverage emerging tools.
- Upskilling as a competitive advantage: Invest in both technical and soft skills, including leadership, critical thinking, and emerging tech capabilities.
- Flexible education benefits drive retention: Tuition assistance, debt-free programs, and micro-credentials strengthen loyalty and attract top talent.
- Continuous learning culture: Structured career pathways and personalized learning plans will future-proof the workforce.
- Work-life balance as strategy: Pair education benefits with flexible schedules and mental health support to boost engagement and reduce burnout.
Preparing for the Future of Work
As the lines between AI, human capability, and career development blur, success will hinge less on technology alone and more on how well employers equip their workforce. Organizations that embrace continuous learning and AI literacy now will not only close critical skill gaps but also position themselves as destinations for top talent in 2026 and beyond.
