The AI Training Ultimatum: Why Most Executives Would Fire Workers Who Refuse AI Tools

A striking disconnect is emerging between management expectations and employee reality when it comes to AI adoption in the workplace. New research reveals that most executives are prepared to take drastic action against workers who resist learning artificial intelligence tools.

The Executive Perspective vs. Worker Reality

According to a Kelly Services report, 59% of senior executives would replace employees who resist adopting AI tools. Even more telling, 79% believe that pushing back against AI is a greater career threat than the technology itself.

However, workers tell a different story. Less than half (47%) say AI actually saves them time, and about one-third report seeing no benefits from the promised AI revolution.

The Training Gap Creates Problems

The divide reveals a fundamental workplace challenge: 80% of managers admit their AI rollouts are struggling because teams lack proper expertise. Despite "nearly all organizations" using AI in some form, companies face technical challenges, security concerns, and slow user adoption.

Key workplace tensions include:

• Executives expecting immediate AI transformation without adequate training
• Workers concerned about job security while being asked to train their potential replacements
• A growing "ivory tower effect" where leadership dismisses legitimate employee concerns

Building Better AI Adoption Strategies

Rather than threatening termination, successful companies are taking a different approach. The Kelly Services data suggests linking career development to AI fluency through bonuses and promotions tied to demonstrated skills. Companies should also provide hands-on demonstrations showing how AI helps workers succeed, not replace them.

The solution isn't firing resistant employees—it's addressing legitimate concerns through proper training, realistic expectations, and ongoing dialogue about both AI benefits and limitations.