A recent survey conducted by TE Connectivity reveals that while the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) is widespread among companies globally, significant barriers remain, particularly in the area of training.
The study noted that use of AI among organisations has largely been limited to basic tasks, including analysing data, simplifying business processes and performing quality assurance. Among advanced users in the data, AI and cloud computer industry, 85% used AI for automated data cleaning. Whle in the energy sector, 74% use AI to forecast energy demand.
The report suggests that developing targeted AI applications that are most relevant to their industries will help organisations caoture more opportunities for AI-driven innovation and business transformation.
The findings, published in the 2025 Industrial Technology Index, highlight both the optimism surrounding AI and the challenges that hinder its full integration into business operations.
Key Findings
- Widespread Adoption: The survey indicates that 68% of engineers and 70% of executives report some level of AI integration within their companies. However, less than a quarter of respondents claim "extensive" adoption of AI technologies.
- Training Deficiencies: A notable 42% of executives acknowledge that their companies do not provide adequate training in AI. This lack of training is likely a significant factor contributing to the slow pace of extensive AI adoption [1].
- Country Variations: AI adoption rates vary significantly by country:
- China: 28% of respondents report extensive use of AI, with 60% having used it for at least three years.
- Japan: 51% have been using AI for over three years.
- Germany: 38% report similar usage.
- India: 29% have adopted AI extensively.
- United States: Only 15% report extensive use, with just 9% having used it for three years.
- Sustainability Goals: Despite recognising AI's potential to optimise processes and improve energy efficiency, only 36% of executives cite sustainability as a key goal of their AI strategies. Many companies are prioritising financial objectives over environmental considerations amid current economic pressures.
- Talent Attraction: The survey also reveals that 80% of engineers prefer to work for organisations that prioritise AI integration, suggesting that investment in AI could enhance a company's attractiveness to potential employees.
The 2025 Industrial Technology Index underscores the importance of addressing training gaps to fully leverage AI's capabilities. As companies navigate the complexities of AI integration, a focus on education and training will be crucial for unlocking the technology's potential and achieving sustainable growth.
