Closing the AI fluency gap to support workforce retention

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University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies has published a new white paper, "The Retention Mandate: Bridging the AI Fluency Gap to Secure the 2026 Workforce," authored by Wayne L. McCoy, DM, MBA, and released through the Center for Educational and Instructional Technology Research (CEITR).

The paper examines a growing workplace challenge: Employees are rapidly building artificial intelligence skills, while many organizations are still developing the policies, processes and career pathways needed to support AI-enabled work. Drawing on the 2026 Career Optimism Index study and research on workplace psychology, technology readiness and organizational governance, McCoy argues that AI fluency is no longer only a productivity issue—it is a retention issue.

"Workers are not waiting for organizations to define the future of AI at work," said McCoy. "Many are already learning, experimenting and building confidence with AI tools. The opportunity for employers is to create the structure around that energy with clear standards, practical training, manager support and career pathways that help employees see a future inside the organization."

The white paper identifies what McCoy describes as an AI fluency gap: a disconnect between worker skill development and organizational readiness. It notes that employee-led AI learning can create mobility and confidence, but also uncertainty when job descriptions, policies, training systems and manager expectations do not keep pace.

"The Retention Mandate" examines how organizations can better align people, processes, technology and data as AI becomes more embedded in the workplace. The paper highlights several factors shaping AI workforce retention:

The paper proposes a four-step roadmap for employers seeking to strengthen AI readiness and retain AI-fluent talent:

McCoy's analysis positions AI adoption as a sociotechnical transformation, not simply a technology rollout. The paper encourages organizations to pair AI implementation with clear governance, workforce development and leadership practices that support employee confidence, adaptability and long-term engagement.

Wayne L. McCoy. The Retention Mandate: Bridging the AI Fluency Gap to Secure the 2026 Workforce

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