DYW Inverness & Central Highland (DYWICH) was pleased to attend the Skills and Workforce Implications of AI Adoption business breakfast this week at Eden Court, hosted by the Scottish Government and Enterprise Agencies.

With a strong focus on how businesses can adapt to technological change, the session built directly on the momentum from our STEAM Ahead events last year, continuing the conversation around preparing both employers and young people for an AI-enabled future.

The key message for businesses was clear: AI is coming regardless, and those who start small and learn fast will be best placed to benefit. SMEs were encouraged to look closely at their business processes and ask a simple question – what issues do we have that could be addressed through AI?

Tools already available can make management information easier to access and analyse, helping businesses use better data as a source of competitive advantage. Crucially, there was strong recognition that SMEs need a level playing field when it comes to accessing AI support, expertise and practical guidance.

Reflecting on the session, Sandra McCaughey, Employment Engagement Manager at DYWICH, said,

“What really stood out was the shift away from one-off training towards continuous improvement and peer-to-peer learning. While technical tools are becoming more accessible, the real skills gap is around confidence, adaptability and understanding your business well enough to know which tools are right for the job. Businesses also need to be ready to act as ‘intelligent clients’ – able to clearly express what they want AI to do for them.”

As emphasis moves towards soft skills such as resilience, flexibility and understanding the wider business landscape, this has clear implications for workforce development and for young people entering the workplace.

Businesses looking to take the next step are encouraged to explore the Scottish AI Alliance, which offers accessible resources to help organisations get started, develop simple AI policies, and connect with expert support across Scotland.