What we learned from 250,000 public workers about AI adoption

As generative AI continues to transform various industries, a recent study by InnovateUS has revealed valuable insights into AI adoption within government workers across the United States. The nonprofit learning initiative has trained over 250,000 public servants in AI, digital technology, and innovative skills, working in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

One key takeaway from the research is the significant gap between the excitement surrounding generative AI and its practical application in government work. While many employees are eager to learn and use the technology, a substantial number remain uncertain about how to apply AI to their specific roles, how to use it effectively, and whether they are permitted to do so.

The study surveyed 106,300 participants who completed an introductory generative AI course between June 2024 and May 2026. The findings indicate that 51% of respondents had never tried generative AI before, while an additional 14% had experimented with it personally but were not yet incorporating it into their work. Technology companies are racing to develop autonomous agents, but many government workers are still grappling with understanding the relevance of AI to their jobs, the proper usage, and potential restrictions.

Managers face similar challenges, with 24% expressing uncertainty about how to use AI and 22% questioning its permissibility at work. Employees often look to their supervisors for guidance, but those leaders may also require assistance in understanding and implementing AI tools.

Despite these challenges, the study identified promising results. Participants with no prior AI knowledge showed the most significant gains in reported knowledge and confidence after training. Furthermore, highly confident respondents demonstrated a more ambitious vision for AI applications, planning to utilize the technology across an average of 3.8 tasks compared to 1.5 among those with lower confidence.

The study emphasizes the importance of providing clear examples, practice opportunities, and manager support to facilitate responsible AI use. Simply issuing policies or providing tools is insufficient; employees need practical experience, guidance, and confidence to identify and implement appropriate AI applications. Moreover, training programs should focus on developing judgment to assess AI-generated information critically and recognize situations where AI should not be used.

Ultimately, the goal of integrating generative AI into government services is to enhance efficiency, reduce wait times, streamline policy engagement, and improve overall service delivery. By providing accessible learning opportunities and fostering a supportive environment, government workers can harness the power of AI to deliver better public services and strengthen trust in government institutions.