Is Gen Z Ready for an AI Future?

AI has already infiltrated the workforce, so higher ed institutions have a responsibility to teach their students how to use it responsibly and effectively. 

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to redefine the way we work, learn and live, Gen Z is emerging as early adopters. Generation Z, or Gen Z, refers to individuals born between approximately 1997 and 2012. This generation is already using AI tools in creative and practical ways. However, according to Gallup’s “Voices of Gen Z: Preparing the Heartland for an AI Future” report, most aren’t receiving the support they need from schools and workplaces to capitalize on AI’s full potential. Let’s explore what the data reveals and what it means for the future of this generation. 

Gen Z Is Already Using AI — A Lot 

Gen Zers are embracing AI at impressive rates. Gallup’s report finds that 77% of the generation in the region uses generative AI tools, and 43% do so weekly—a usage rate just below the 49% reported in coastal and other noncentral states. Much of this use happens outside the classroom, with 47% of students using AI for homework and 49% for learning outside school. However, formal educational environments are not keeping up. Only 30% of students say they use AI during class, and just 26% say their schools allow it under certain circumstances. These numbers show a clear mismatch between students’ enthusiasm and the systems meant to guide their learning. 

Feeling Unprepared for the Real World 

Even though they’re using AI often, most of Gen Zers do not feel prepared to apply it in their future careers or higher education. According to Gallup’s findings, only 10% of K–12 students believe their teachers have prepared them to use AI in the future. Among those already working, only 9% say they feel extremely prepared to use AI in their current jobs. This lack of preparedness highlights a growing skills gap—one that could have long-term consequences as more jobs integrate AI technologies into everyday tasks. 

Opportunity Gaps Are Emerging in the Workplace 

Gallup’s research also reveals that access to AI tools in the workplace varies widely by industry. Heartland Gen Zers in white-collar roles like STEM (61%) and education (59%) are far more likely to report that their workplaces permit AI use than those in healthcare (10%) or service and blue-collar jobs (17%). Furthermore, 44% of workers in blue-collar, service and healthcare roles believe AI doesn’t apply to their work at all. The report also highlights that male, high school-aged Gen Zers are the most likely to use and feel prepared to integrate AI into their lives.  

Gen Z’s Complex Relationship with AI 

Perceptions of artificial intelligence among young people are shifting rapidly, revealing a complex blend of awe, anxiety and skepticism. In a recent study by Futurism, a quarter of Gen Z respondents said they believe AI is already conscious, while 52% think it will gain consciousness in the future. Alarmingly, 58% believe AI will eventually take over the world, with 44% predicting it could happen within the next 20 years. At the same time, the Gallup survey sheds light on the emotional and practical dimensions of AI use. Frequent users report more positive feelings toward AI tools, but even 29% of daily users say AI makes them feel anxious. Conversely, some infrequent users still feel excited about AI’s potential. In academic and professional settings, many Gen Zers appreciate AI’s ability to boost efficiency, with half saying it helps them learn faster and complete tasks more easily. However, critical reflection tempers that optimism. According to a recent Inside Higher Ed article, young users are twice as likely to believe AI will harm rather than help their critical thinking, and many doubt its usefulness for generating original ideas or sourcing accurate information. 

Closing the Gap Between Usage and Readiness 

The message from Gallup’s Voices of Gen Z report is clear: While AI usage among Gen Z is high, institutional support is not keeping pace. Without clear guidance, training and inclusion, many Gen Zers risk being left behind in an AI-driven economy. Schools and employers must step up by creating inclusive policies, integrating AI education and expanding access to tools and training, especially in underserved sectors and communities. Doing so will prepare Gen Z for the future and empower them to shape it.