New AI Marketing and Strategy Certification from Growclass to help workers close the gap.
As AI continues to dominate the workplace, surprisingly, less than half of Canadians (42%) are using AI tools in their jobs, and only 12% of workers have received formal training, according to a new survey by Growclass and Angus Reid. To help close this skills gap, Growclass, an award-winning course and community for marketers, today announced the launch of its AI Marketing and Strategy Certification, a six-week program designed to equip marketing professionals with the skills and confidence to integrate AI responsibly into their work.
The survey findings reveal key themes about how Canadians feel about AI in the workplace:
Confidence Gap
While 42% of Canadians are currently using AI tools at work, out of those who do use it, only 33% state they are confident in their ability to use them effectively. This gap highlights widespread adoption without the necessary training or support.
Gender Divide
Men report higher confidence than women (36% vs 30%), highlighting disparities in AI adoption. They are also more likely to have received formal AI training (13% versus 11%).
Job Insecurity, Particularly With Women
Over 1 in 4 Canadians (26%) are concerned that AI could replace their role in the next 5 years, with women more concerned than men (29% versus 22%, respectively).
Appetite for Upskilling with a Reliance on Employers
Most Canadians (68%) would be interested in AI training if their employer offered it. In fact, most Canadians believe their employer should be responsible for AI training (46%), followed by their own responsibility (20%), education systems (7%), and the government (4%).
Regional Divide
Interest in AI training also differs by region. Ontario and Quebec residents show the highest demand, with 71% saying they would participate in employer-offered AI training, while Atlantic Canada residents are the least interested, with only 56% saying yes.
Professional Differences
HR professionals are using AI more than any other sector (81%), and have also received the most AI training (33%), yet they are also the most concerned (62%) about being replaced by AI in the next five years. Meanwhile, digital technology professionals are the most confident in their ability to use AI effectively (56%), followed by non-profit professionals (40%), and government and communications/marketing professionals (38% each).
“AI is already central to how we work, but without proper training, it risks leaving people behind, particularly for women and underrepresented communities,” said Sarah Stockdale, CEO and Founder of Growclass. “Our program is designed to close that gap by giving people the practical skills, confidence and value alignment they need to use AI intentionally, not fear it.”
About the AI Marketing and Strategy Certification
The AI Marketing and Strategy Certification is a six-week program designed to help skilled marketers understand how AI works and apply it effectively. Participants gain hands-on experience with AI tools that align with their brand and values, and leave with a 30/60/90 day roadmap for integration. The program is taught by industry experts and includes live workshops, practical exercises, and ongoing access to course materials, as well as a Growclass alumni membership to join what’s been coined the kindest corner on the internet.
For more information on Growclass’ new AI Marketing and Strategy Certification or to sign up for the next cohort, visit growclass.co/ai-marketing-strategy-certification.
Methodology
These findings are from a survey conducted by Growclass from August 6th to August 11th, 2025, among a representative sample of 1,012 online adult Canadians who are members of the Angus Reid Forum. The survey was conducted in English and French. For comparison purposes only, a probability sample of this size would carry a margin of error of +/-3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
About Growclass
Growclass is an award-winning course and community specializing in Growth Marketing and AI Adoption, equipping marketers and business leaders with the technical skills and human skills needed for high-growth careers and business opportunities. Founded by Sarah Stockdale, Growclass is dedicated to providing accessible and inclusive digital skills education. To learn more about Growclass and its programs, visit www.growclass.co.
Media Contact
Amy Sarkany
Account Manager
amy@categorycomms.com
