How will AI affect the future of work? A survey by the TÜV Association sheds light on fears, expectations and necessary training measures.
According to a recent survey by the TÜV Association, around a third of employees already use generative artificial intelligence (AI) such as ChatGPT, Gemini or Claude for professional purposes. In industry in particular, the technology is increasingly being used in areas such as robotics, production planning and product development. The study, which was conducted by Forsa on behalf of the TÜV Association, sheds light on the influence of AI on the labor market and the need for further training.
The impact of artificial intelligence on the world of work
The survey shows that a slight majority of employees (53%) believe that AI will play a significant role in their job in five years' time. Nevertheless, 44 percent of respondents believe that the technology will have little or no impact on their job. Almost three quarters of respondents (72%) believe that their job cannot be replaced.
Despite these assessments, 49% of employees consider the use of AI to be potentially risky for the jobs of many people. However, only 7% fear losing their job themselves due to AI.
“Artificial intelligence will fundamentally change many work processes in almost all professional fields - from plant engineering to dental technology,” says Dr. Joachim Bühler, Managing Director of the TÜV Association.
AI skills as the key to professional success
The survey also shows that 60 percent of those in employment consider further training on the subject of AI to be useful in order to remain competitive in their professional activities. 37 percent of those surveyed are afraid of being “left behind professionally” if they do not acquire knowledge of the application. According to Bühler, this concern is justified, as technology is becoming an increasingly important competitive factor in many industries. Employers are therefore required to actively train their employees.
Lack of AI regulations in most companies
Another result of the survey shows that most companies still lack clear guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence. Only 19 percent of respondents report that their employer has introduced specific regulations for the use of AI tools. In the few cases where such guidelines exist, they mainly relate to data protection, copyright and the protection of sensitive information.
AI Act: mandatory further training for companies since February 2025
Since February 2025, companies that develop or use AI systems have been obliged to offer their employees training in this area. This is governed by the new European regulation AI Act. The aim of the regulation is to promote innovation while ensuring that the technology is used responsibly. The training courses must impart basic technical knowledge, the application of these tools in the respective industry and an understanding of ethical and legal requirements.
"AI can make a significant contribution to Germany's productivity and competitiveness if it is used correctly. This requires standards, safe AI systems and training measures for employees," says Bühler.
The survey was conducted in October 2024 and covered 1,001 people aged 16 and over, including 663 employees.
