PwC's huge survey of 50,000 workers says AI is splitting employees into 4 distinct groups

Is AI making you a "frontrunner" or are you working in the "engine room?" Cravetiger/Getty Images PwC surveyed 50,000 workers globally about their professional "hopes and fears." Its findings split workers into four distinct groups based on how and how much they're using AI. This divergence is creating a "two-speed" workforce, said PwC's global workforce leader. Is AI turning you into a "frontrunner" or are you working in the "engine room?" A huge survey carried out by consulting giant PwC found that AI is allowing a small group of workers to pull away from the rest of the workforce and dividing employees into four distinct categories. The Big Four firm published its "2026 Global Workforce Hopes and Fears Survey" on Tuesday. It surveyed almost 50,000 workers across 48 countries and 29 sectors between May and June 2026. AI use is rising, the survey found.