Half of workers reconsidering careers over AI

A Microsoft Ireland study reveals that nearly half of workers are reconsidering their career paths due to the rise of AI. While most employees report that AI improves their work quality, many feel their employers are not providing sufficient training or resources to adapt to these changes.
Why it matters
The findings highlight a growing skills gap and workforce anxiety, suggesting that companies must prioritize AI training to retain talent and maintain competitiveness.
Almost half of workers say AI is making them reconsider their career path, according to new research from Microsoft.
Microsoft Ireland's 2026 Work Trend Index shows that almost half of workers changed employer in the last year, up from 38% in 2025 and 19% in 2023.
The research found that 63% of respondents use AI tools at work, up from 56% last year.
Nine in 10 workers said AI has improved the quality of their work, while more than three quarters view AI as a major economic opportunity for Ireland.
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