A clear shift is emerging in India’s workforce as artificial intelligence reshapes careers across sectors. New findings show that experienced professionals are now leading the push to upskill in AI, signalling that these skills are no longer limited to technical teams or early adopters.
According to data released by edtech firm Great Learning, more than 40% of enrolments in generative AI and AI and machine learning programmes in 2025 came from senior professionals with over 15 years of work experience. The analysis is based on behavioural data from over 1 million learners on the platform during the year.
The trend highlights a change in how seasoned professionals view AI. Instead of treating it as a purely technical skill, many now see it as essential for leadership, strategy, and decision-making as organisations accelerate AI-led transformation.
The study noted that AI upskilling in India has moved firmly into the mainstream. What was once seen as relevant mainly for niche technology roles is now becoming a career requirement across industries and experience levels, especially as enterprises increase their reliance on AI-driven systems.
“While AI and GenAI were already among the most sought-after upskilling areas in 2024, their prominence continued well into 2025. What became increasingly clear was the extent to which AI permeated industries, job functions, and experience levels,” said Arjun Nair, Co Founder, Great Learning.
AI and machine learning emerged as the most in-demand upskilling domains in 2025, recording a 17% year-on-year rise in demand. These were followed by data science, software development, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Great Learning said AI is now viewed as a core professional capability that cuts across functions and seniority levels.
Despite the strong participation from senior professionals, freshers and early-career talent continued to dominate overall enrolments. Learners with 0–3 years of experience accounted for 48% of total enrolments. This was followed by a near-even split between mid-career professionals with 3–12 years of experience and senior professionals with over 12 years in the workforce.
“We observed a notable rise in professionals from non-technology sectors learning AI, reinforcing the fact that AI is no longer a niche or purely technical skill, but a core workplace capability,” Nair said.
The data also showed that 77% of learners upskilling in 2025 came from non-IT and non-ITES sectors such as banking, manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and pharmaceuticals. Around one-third of AI learners had non-STEM educational backgrounds, pointing to wider accessibility.
Upskilling demand remained strongest in Tier-1 cities, which contributed 68% of long-term course enrolments. Tier-2 cities like Coimbatore, Madurai, and Kochi also showed strong participation, with Tamil Nadu leading among smaller cities.
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