9 Must-Have AI Tools for Upskilling Employees in 2025

Upskilling your workforce is essential in a competitive job market. AI tools for upskilling employees can deliver personalized and efficient training to close skill gaps and prepare teams for future challenges.

This article will highlight the top AI tools of 2025 and demonstrate how they can enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.

What we will explore together:

• Integrating AI tools into employee training programs can effectively close skill gaps, enhance employee engagement, and boost productivity. These tools offer personalized learning experiences that align with individual and organizational goals.
• Establishing a culture of continuous learning is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. Upskilling initiatives improve job performance and support career development, leading to increased job satisfaction and employee retention.
• Successfully implementing AI-driven upskilling strategies involves conducting a skills gap analysis, setting clear upskilling goals, and encouraging employee participation. This ensures that training efforts are targeted, relevant, and aligned with future organizational needs.

Why upskilling employees is crucial in 2025?

In 2025, the importance of upskilling employees is underscored by the widening skills gap and the rapid evolution of technology.

As technological advancements continue to reshape industries, employees must acquire new and in-demand skills to stay competitive and excel in the job market. The pace of change necessitates that learning transcends traditional classroom settings and becomes an integral part of the workplace.

This shift emphasizes the need for continuous upskilling initiatives within companies to keep pace with technological evolution.

By prioritizing upskilling, organizations can ensure their workforce remains agile, capable, and ready to meet future challenges head-on, thereby maintaining a competitive edge in an ever-evolving landscape.

🪩 Related reads: How companies are making the shift to skill-based hiring

Why AI-first approaches are essential in upskilling employees?

The workplace is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and with it, the skills required to thrive.

A significant skills gap is emerging as AI reshapes various industries, leaving many employees feeling insecure about their abilities. Upskilling has become crucial to stay relevant and competitive.

Artificial intelligence is pivotal in this transformation, as it provides personalized training programs that align with individual interests and adjust difficulty levels to suit each learner.

• AI-powered training programs address skills gaps and enhance employee engagement and motivation.
• AI focuses on skills relevant to future job roles, keeping employees engaged and motivated to learn.
• Moreover, AI enables tailored learning pathways from vast online training libraries, offering employees customized educational experiences that cater to their unique needs and goals.

Continuous learning, particularly in AI, is becoming essential for employee retention and overall organizational success.

As job roles evolve, both soft skills like creativity and communication and technical skills become increasingly important. Leveraging AI for data-driven training initiatives allows businesses to align upskilling efforts with organizational goals, creating a resilient workforce prepared for future challenges.

The benefits of using AI-powered upskilling tools

Investing in AI-powered upskilling tools offers numerous benefits that can transform your organization:

• Increased Productivity: AI tools help employees tackle tasks more efficiently, reducing the time needed for routine activities and allowing focus on strategic initiatives.
• Effective Skill Gap Closure: AI-powered upskilling programs provide employees with the necessary training opportunities to acquire new skills, improving job performance and employee engagement.
• Enhanced Employee Satisfaction: Personalized training programs increase employee satisfaction with their roles, resulting in higher retention rates and lower turnover.
• Commitment to Career Development: Investing in upskilling efforts demonstrates an organization’s dedication to employee career growth, enhancing retention and job satisfaction.
• Competitive Advantage: AI-powered training initiatives enhance critical thinking and strategic decision-making capabilities, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.
• Collaborative Innovation: Encourages employees to explore innovative solutions to challenges, creating a more resilient and adaptable workforce ready for future demands.

9 top-rated AI tools for upskilling employees (2025)

Choosing the right AI tools for employee upskilling programs is crucial for maximizing the benefits of training programs.

Several platforms stand out for their ability to offer high-quality, personalized learning experiences. This section will explore some of the top AI tools available today, each bringing unique features that cater to various upskilling needs:

‍

‍

#1. Disco - a modern upskilling platform powered by AI

Disco is a modern AI-powered learning platform revolutionizing collaborative learning and employee engagement. It is trusted by the world's top organizations, such as Kaplan, Mercury, CourseHero, and the Toronto Board of Trade.

By leveraging AI, Disco enhances operational efficiency, automating administrative tasks and accelerating content creation through its AI curriculum generator.

Experience how Disco AI creates a full upskilling course in minutes:

In addition, Disco AI helps learning operators by answering member queries, generating discussion posts, and suggesting prompts through the organization's knowledge base.

Here's how it encourages conversations in channels:

Its deep customization options enable organizations to tailor training programs to meet specific needs and goals, providing a highly personalized learning experience. This allows organizations to buy an LMS rather than build their custom software.

Key features:

• Gamifies engagement with leaderboards and engagement scoring, motivating learners and expediting curriculum development.
• Delivers a modern learning experience with interactive lessons, assignments, quizzes, and discussions, ensuring continuous learning and development.
• Utilizes AI to identify areas for improvement, streamline processes, and enhance overall learning effectiveness.
• Supports a culture of continuous learning, fostering collaboration and innovation among employees.

Pricing for Disco starts at $359/month for small businesses that are starting to upskill employees. You may also try Disco's 14-day free trial before subscribing to the plan to test if Disco is the right tool for your learning organization.

If you are an enterprise, book a demo to receive a personalized quotation and speak to our expert team.

#2. IBM Watson Talent - personalized career development plans

IBM Watson Talent utilizes AI to enhance employee upskilling by matching them with appropriate training programs and job opportunities.

It focuses on skill enhancement and career progression, helping organizations develop a skilled workforce ready to meet future challenges. Through personalized career development plans, IBM Watson Talent ensures employees have the necessary skills for their roles.

Key features:

• AI is employed to match employees with relevant training opportunities.
• Focuses on career progression through personalized development plans.
• Provides insights into skill gaps and training needs.
• Enhances talent management with data-driven decision-making.

A free trial for Watson X is available. Book a demo with their team if you want to see the platform live.

#3. Cornerstone OnDemand -AI platform for upskilling initiatives

Cornerstone OnDemand leverages AI to optimize workforce development and upskilling initiatives.

It automates skill mapping and suggests tailored training modules, ensuring employees receive the right training at the right time.

Cornerstone OnDemand focuses on talent management and engagement to help organizations build a skilled and adaptable workforce.

Key features:

• Automates skill mapping to identify training needs and opportunities.
• Suggests tailored training modules for targeted skill development.
• Supports talent management with AI-driven insights and analytics.
• Enhances employee engagement through personalized learning experiences.

Pricing is available upon request.

#4. LearnIn by Degreed - an AI learning platform with LXP

Degreed is a premier learning platform tailored for workforce upskilling, offering AI-powered skill-specific academies.

With its recent acquisition of Learn In, Degreed has expanded its capabilities to provide even more comprehensive and effective upskilling solutions.

The platform offers diverse learning resources, including courses, videos, articles, and books. Its data-driven approach ensures that upskilling efforts align with business objectives, making it a valuable tool for organizations aiming to develop relevant skills and enhance job performance.

It supports many professional development opportunities, helping employees enhance existing skills and acquire new ones, thus advancing their career path and overall growth.

Degreed's focus on aligning learning paths with business goals ensures a cohesive and effective upskilling strategy, making it an indispensable asset for organizations committed to fostering continuous learning and development.

Key features:

• Provides skill-specific academies powered by AI for targeted learning.
• Offers a comprehensive library of courses, videos, articles, and books.
• Aligns learning paths with business and individual goals.
• Utilizes a data-driven approach to ensure relevant skill development.
• Supports professional development and career growth for employees.
• Enhances workforce upskilling through the integration of Learn In capabilities.

Talk to sales for a personalized pricing quotation.

#5. Skillsoft Percipio - ideal for personalized learning paths for skill development

Skillsoft Percipio is an AI-powered learning platform designed to upskill employees through a vast library of courses.

It offers personalized learning paths, ensuring that employees acquire the skills necessary to excel in their roles. With tools to measure skill proficiency, Skillsoft Percipio helps organizations maintain a competitive edge by fostering continuous learning and development.

Key features:

• Provides access to a wide array of courses tailored to industry needs.
• Creates personalized learning paths to align with individual career goals.
• Includes assessment tools to evaluate and track skill proficiency.
• Supports continuous learning with up-to-date content and resources.

Pricing starts at $20/month for individuals and $55/month for teams up to 50 users.

Other AI upskilling platforms with ready-made online courses

#6. Coursera for Business - The best upskilling marketplace for continuous learning

Coursera for Business stands out as a premier AI tool for upskilling employees.

It offers a scalable solution with high-quality courses focusing on in-demand skills like machine learning, generative AI, and deep learning. This platform is ideal for organizations looking to enhance their employees' skills and stay competitive in the evolving job market.

Coursera for Business provides access to courses from top universities and industry leaders, ensuring that employees receive the most relevant and up-to-date training.

Its analytics dashboards and skill-tracking features empower business leaders to monitor progress and identify areas for improvement, making it a valuable asset for any upskilling program.

Key features:

• Wide range of courses in cutting-edge fields such as machine learning, generative AI, and deep learning.
• Integrates with existing training programs, providing seamless access to many learning opportunities.
• Analytics dashboards and skill-tracking tools to help business leaders monitor employee development and identify skill gaps.
• Access to courses from leading universities and industry experts, ensuring high-quality learning experiences.
• In various learning formats, including on-demand courses and guided projects, to suit different learning styles and schedules.

Coursera for Business pricing is available upon request.

#7. Pluralsight - empowering teams with cutting-edge tech skills

Pluralsight is dedicated to upskilling employees, particularly in technology.

It offers a comprehensive suite of expert-led courses designed to equip teams with the latest industry-relevant skills and ensure their competitiveness in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

By leveraging AI, Pluralsight provides personalized learning experiences that help fill skill gaps and enhance technical expertise, supporting continuous learning and development. This platform is instrumental in building a resilient and skilled workforce prepared for future challenges.

Key Features:

• Utilizes AI to assess current skills and suggest personalized learning paths for individual growth.
• Offers a comprehensive selection of courses in key tech areas like data science, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
• Engages learners with practical labs and projects to effectively apply new skills.
• Provides analytics to track progress, identify skill gaps, and measure learning outcomes.
• Enables custom learning tracks that align with business goals and technology needs.
• Keeps content updated with the latest industry trends and technologies.

Pricing starts at $19/month for the standard plan and $29/month for the premium plan, both available for individual users. For teams, a subscription plan begins at $33.25/month. Enterprises seeking a tailored solution can contact the Pluralsight team for a customized quotation.

#8. EdX - high-quality courses in collaboration with the top universities and institutions

EdX allows employees to gain accredited credentials, fostering skill development and career advancement.

By offering courses across various subjects, EdX ensures that employees can acquire and refine both technical and soft skills necessary for their roles.

EdX supports organizations' upskilling efforts by delivering flexible learning options, including micro-degrees and professional certificates designed to meet rigorous educational standards.

This platform empowers employees to enhance their job performance and achieve their career goals, making it a valuable asset for any organization committed to continuous learning and development.

Key features:

• Access to a vast array of courses from leading universities and institutions.
• Accredited programs offering micro-degrees and professional certificates.
• Flexible learning formats, including self-paced and instructor-led courses.
• Courses covering a wide range of subjects, from technology to leadership skills.
• Opportunities for employees to gain recognized credentials and enhance career paths.
• Support for continuous learning with up-to-date and relevant content.

#9. Section School - the best upskilling school to acquire AI skills

Section School is an innovative platform that empowers employees with the necessary AI skills to thrive in today's fast-paced business environment.

It offers a comprehensive course tailored to enhance technical and soft skills, ensuring employees are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern job roles.

It helps organizations fill skill gaps and support continuous learning and development. By focusing on AI-driven education, Section School prepares employees for the future of work, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability.

Key features:

• Offers a wide range of AI-focused courses, from machine learning to data analytics.
• Provides hands-on projects and real-world case studies to apply new skills effectively.
• Utilizes AI to personalize learning paths, aligning with individual career goals.
• Engages learners with interactive modules and collaborative learning opportunities.
• Offers mentorship programs to guide employees through their learning journey.
• Regularly updates content to stay aligned with industry trends and technological advancements.

Joining Section School as an individual starts at $62/month. For enterprises, contact the team for good deals and discounts.

Three steps to implementing AI tools in your upskilling strategy

Implementing AI tools in your upskilling strategy involves several key steps.

• First, conduct a thorough skills gap analysis to identify areas for improvement in your organization.
• Then, use AI to create personalized learning experiences that align educational content with individual employee needs.
• Next, clear upskilling goals should be set that align with organizational needs and individual employee growth aspirations.
• Encourage employee participation by fostering a culture of continuous learning, offering flexible learning options, and recognizing and rewarding participation in upskilling initiatives that enhance leadership skills.

Following these steps ensures an effective implementation of AI tools in your upskilling strategy.

1. Conduct a skills gap analysis

Accurately identifying skill gaps is crucial for understanding the resources and activities required for effective upskilling.

Conduct surveys and skills assessments to measure employee skills gaps and gather valuable data. This information will help you tailor your upskilling programs to address the most critical needs and prevent investment in irrelevant skills.

Closing skills gaps enhances job performance, supports career development, and equips your workforce with the skills needed to stay competitive.

Therefore, a skills gap analysis is vital in creating a targeted and impactful upskilling strategy.

2. Set clear upskilling goals

Setting clear upskilling goals is essential for the success of training programs.

These goals should align with both organizational needs and individual employee growth aspirations. Integrating organizational and individual goals creates a more cohesive and effective upskilling strategy, motivating engagement and supporting professional growth.

Establish specific and measurable objectives to track progress and ensure accountability within your upskilling initiatives.

Clear upskilling goals help employees see the value in their training efforts and stay motivated to achieve their career development aspirations while contributing to the organization’s future success.

3. Encourage employee participation

Establish a culture that values continuous learning to enhance employee engagement.

Here are examples:

• Provide opportunities for employees to collaborate on projects, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.
• Offer recognition and rewards for participation in upskilling initiatives can motivate training employees to engage more actively.
• Encouraging employees to contribute to the design of training programs can increase their buy-in and enthusiasm.
• Try an AI platform that focuses on employee engagement so that you can encourage participation seamlessly.

Flexible learning options, such as on-demand courses or blended learning, can also improve participation rates by accommodating different learning styles and schedules.

The future of AI-powered upskilling

As we look ahead, AI-powered upskilling is poised to change how organizations train and develop their employees.

One key trend is the integration of generative AI, which can create customized learning experiences and significantly enhance productivity. However, many organizations are still figuring out how best to utilize the time gained through AI-enhanced productivity.

Another emerging trend is the focus on improving work quality through AI, which increases accuracy and boosts customer satisfaction.

Companies that effectively utilize generative AI often have strong data governance and infrastructure, allowing them to deploy solutions more rapidly and efficiently. Maintaining human involvement in AI processes mitigates risks and ensures ethical practices.

Sustainability is also becoming a crucial consideration, with organizations striving to develop AI strategies that are mindful of energy consumption and environmental impact.

As AI continues to evolve, staying abreast of these trends will be vital for organizations looking to create a resilient workforce capable of adapting to future challenges.

Keep up with the ever-evolving job market with the best AI upskilling platform! 🪩

In conclusion, AI tools are transforming workforce development by offering personalized and efficient training solutions that close skill gaps and enhance employee engagement.

Platforms like Disco, Coursera for Business, and others support job skills and career development while maintaining a competitive edge.

As upskilling becomes a critical trend, companies must embrace these innovations to foster a resilient and future-ready workforce.

We invite you to experience the power of AI-driven upskilling firsthand. Try Disco's 14-day free trial and book a demo to see how it can revolutionize your organization's learning and development initiatives. Stay ahead in the job market by integrating AI into your upskilling strategy today!

FAQs on upskilling employees with AI tools

What are the benefits of upskilling?

Upskilling offers numerous benefits, including closing skill gaps, enhancing employee engagement, and increasing job satisfaction. It supports career development and helps organizations maintain a competitive edge by ensuring their workforce is equipped with relevant skills. Additionally, upskilling initiatives can improve job performance and increase employee retention.

What is an upskilling strategy?

An upskilling strategy is a structured approach to improving employees' skills to meet current and future job requirements. It involves identifying skill gaps, setting clear goals, and implementing targeted training programs. This strategy aligns with organizational objectives and fosters a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.

What is the meaning of an upskilling job?

The term "upskilling job" refers to roles or positions requiring employees to enhance or acquire new skills to perform effectively. It emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adapting to technological changes to stay competitive in the job market.

What is an example of upskilling and reskilling?

An example of upskilling is a software developer learning a new programming language to enhance their technical skills. Reskilling, on the other hand, might involve a marketing professional transitioning to a data analytics role by acquiring data analysis skills. Both processes aim to improve employees' skill sets to align with evolving job roles and industry demands.