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LONDON — Google on Tuesday launched “AI Works for Britain,” a nationwide initiative aimed at helping workers, students, and job seekers build AI skills and overcome barriers to career progression.
Backed by nearly £2 million in Google.org funding, the program focuses on expanding hands-on AI training and encouraging more effective use of tools that are already widely available but underused. This is according to the company news by Kate Alessi, vice president and managing director of Google UK and Ireland.
Google said research it commissioned found 76% of people in the United Kingdom feel “stuck” in their careers or personal development, citing limited professional networks, low confidence and skills gaps as key barriers.
Although 65% of people in the UK use AI tools, only 10% consider themselves advanced users and 25% say they gain significant value from them.
“Britain is overflowing with talent … yet many feel opportunities are out of reach,” Alessi said. “We need to help people ‘squeeze the juice’ out of these tools.”
The initiative includes “Squeeze the Juice” pop-up hubs in cities such as Leeds, Liverpool, and Birmingham, where participants will learn to solve workplace challenges using AI. Google also plans a Gemini university tour offering on-campus training and career coaching, as well as partnerships with nonprofits and government programs to expand access for digitally excluded communities.
Younger adults were more likely to view AI as a career tool, with 75% of those ages 25 to 34 saying it boosts their confidence in applying for jobs, compared with 57% of the overall population. Respondents said AI helps improve communication, develop ideas, and learn new skills more quickly.
“Our goal is to bring practical AI skills to people in every corner of the UK,” Alessi said.
The initiative aligns with broader government efforts to expand AI skills. UK Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the government is committed to ensuring people have “the skills and confidence to seize the opportunities AI brings.”
About 40% of Britons expect AI skills to become essential within three years for career advancement, job changes and business creation. The company added that many increasingly view AI proficiency as comparable to education and professional networks in importance.