randstad research reveals proactive AI adoption among workers with disabilities amid structural talent scarcity.
- 55% of talent with disabilities use AI for problem-solving, compared to just 39% of non-disabled employees.
- 57% of talent with disabilities seek AI training independently, versus 41% of non-disabled peers, underscoring gaps in employer-provided skilling.
- Nearly a third (29%) of talent with disabilities would consider leaving their job if AI upskilling opportunities aren’t provided, compared to 18% of non-disabled employees.
New insights from Randstad’s understanding talent scarcity: AI and equity report reveals that talent with disabilities are some of the most engaged adopters of AI, leveraging it as a tool to enhance workplace productivity. Yet, significant gaps in workplace support for AI training risk alienating this critical talent pool during a time of growing labor shortages.
AI adoption among talent with disabilities surpasses other demographics.
Randstad’s data shows that workers with disabilities are leading the way in AI adoption, with 55% using the technology to solve problems at work, in comparison to 41% of non-disabled colleagues. This proactive usage extends to career development, where 51% have utilized AI for job applications compared to 27% of their peers. Despite their enthusiasm, 57% of workers with disabilities report relying on external training to build AI skills, compared to 41% of non-disabled employees.
talent scarcity and retention risks.
The findings underscore a clear message for businesses: failing to provide sufficient equitable training opportunities will exacerbate talent scarcity. Nearly 29% of workers with disabilities would leave their roles if employers fail to offer AI upskilling—more than 1.5 times the rate of their non-disabled colleagues. As global demand for AI skills continues to grow fivefold year-over-year, retaining this skilled and motivated workforce must become a priority for businesses navigating labor shortages.
Randstad CEO, Sander van ‘t Noordende, commented: “Talent scarcity is the defining labor market challenge, and addressing inequities in AI adoption and skilling is a fundamental part of the solution. Talent with disabilities are among the most innovative adopters of AI, using it for problem-solving and productivity. Employers must act swiftly to provide tailored, equitable support—both to further unlock their potential and to address growing workforce shortages. In a world where talent scarcity continues to challenge industries globally, ensuring equitable access to adequate AI skilling and opportunities is not just a social imperative—it’s a strategic necessity.”
The report also highlights geographic disparities in the perceived impact of AI. Talent with disabilities in emerging markets like India and Brazil report the highest improvements in role accessibility due to AI adoption, at 68% and 65% respectively. By contrast, in developed markets such as the US (43%), Germany (37%), and the Netherlands (37%), the reported improvements are much lower. This disparity is likely linked to significantly higher AI workplace adoption rates in Brazil and India (both 69%) compared to the US (40%), Germany (42%), and the Netherlands (36%).
barriers beyond AI training.
The data highlights that systemic barriers persist for workers with disabilities, extending beyond skilling gaps:
- Over half (51%) of workers with disabilities call for better accessibility support in their workplaces.
- Only 44% believe their employers have made reasonable adjustments to accommodate their disabilities.
- Nearly two in five (39%) report experiencing discrimination or prejudice due to their disabilities during their careers.
These findings underscore the need for businesses to not only address skill gaps but also prioritize creating inclusive and supportive workplace environments.
To mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Randstad is hosting a special LinkedIn Live event. Our expert panel will discuss what’s needed to empower this talent pool and close the equity gap. Register to join us on 3 December at 15:00 CET to be part of the conversation, or watch the recording after.
about randstad.
Randstad is a global talent leader with the vision to be the world’s most equitable and specialized talent company. As a partner for talent and through our four specializations - Operational, Professional, Digital and Enterprise - we provide clients with the high-quality, diverse and agile workforces that they need to succeed in a talent scarce world. We help people secure meaningful roles, develop relevant skills and find purpose and belonging in their workplace. Through the value we create, we are committed to a better and more sustainable future for all.
Headquartered in the Netherlands, Randstad operates in 39 markets and has approximately 40,000 employees. In 2023, we supported 2 million talent to find work and generated a revenue of €25.4 billion. Randstad N.V. is listed on the Euronext Amsterdam. For more information, see www.randstad.com
about the ai & equity report.
The survey connected to this report explores the views of working people in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America. It is based on primary data collected from 12,429 respondents in 15 markets between 5 and 22 August 2024, along with secondary research compiled using data from almost 3 million job profiles from September 2023 to September 2024. For the primary research, Randstad partnered with Evalueserve, a global research and analysis firm.