Bridging the AI Skills Gap: Workforce Training for Financial Services

This paper explores the transformative impact of Generative AI (GenAI) and Agentic AI on the banking and financial services sector. We examine the current applications, potential benefits, and challenges associated with these technologies, focusing on their role in enhancing productivity, improving customer experiences, and reshaping workforce dynamics. This paper explores the critical need for training older adults in Generative AI (GenAI). While GenAI offers transformative potential across various sectors, ensuring equitable access and adoption requires addressing the specific challenges faced by older populations. These challenges include digital literacy gaps, concerns about data privacy and security, and the need for user-friendly interfaces. The paper examines key considerations for developing effective GenAI training programs for older adults, emphasizing the importance of foundational digital skills, accessible language, personalized learning, and ongoing support. Furthermore, it analyzes future projections of GenAI’s impact, highlighting the necessity of upskilling and reskilling the workforce, including older individuals, to bridge the emerging GenAI skills gap. The paper categorizes and quantifies the types of sources used to support its claims, providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of research and expert opinion on this important topic. By addressing the unique needs of older learners and preparing for the future of GenAI, we can foster digital inclusion and empower all members of society to benefit from this transformative technology. This paper uses the sources published in last six months. This paper examines the impact of Generative AI (GenAI) and Agentic AI on the financial services sector, with a specific focus on workforce training and upskilling. Key findings indicate that by 2027, 80% of the engineering workforce will require AI-related upskilling (Gartner) and AI-driven automation can reduce manual data tasks by up to 80% (West Monroe). In banking, AI adoption has led to tangible productivity gains, such as Capitec Bank employees saving over one hour per week using AI tools. The financial benefits are also significant, with Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) models enhancing profitability and compliance in banking operations. Additionally, this study highlights the digital divide faced by older adults, emphasizing the need for structured AI training programs. The paper categorizes and quantifies recent AI adoption trends, workforce transformation data, and financial efficiency metrics to provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving AI landscape in financial services.