The professional landscape changed significantly in 2025. Artificial intelligence became one of the fastest-growing industries, alongside the information technology and cyber security sectors. This technological shift has forced businesses across Wales to adapt their ways of working and find innovative responses to industry challenges.
Here’s what we can expect to see in the coming 12 months, and how training might help you plan for the future.
AI and Automation will continue to grow
Over the past few years, hybrid and remote working have become an essential part of most organisations. Throughout 2024-25, employees and businesses had to adjust quickly to the digital landscape, with many utilising apprenticeships such as Digital Skills for Business and Digital Application Support to equip their staff with the knowledge and tools needed to use these platforms confidently.
For 2026, we predict advanced digital qualifications, including Cyber Security Analyst, Data Analytics, Software Developer and AI, will see a boost in popularity as businesses begin to master digital spaces and become wise to the potential growth opportunities specialist skills can offer.
AI, in particular, presents an exciting opportunity for businesses this year. From AI personalisation to automation and efficiency, organisations are beginning to invest heavily in AI software and AI focused strategies. According to The Adecco Group Global Workforce of the Future 2025 report workers spend an average of 2 hours per day using AI tools, yet only 25% receive formal AI training from their employers.
Employee-focused workplace culture
This year, we expect to see a continuation of the shift in workplace culture that we saw throughout 2025. As hybrid working became the norm, businesses found new ways to engage staff, developing wellbeing strategies and employee retention policies to keep morale, efficiency, and engagement high. The CIPD Good Work Index for 2025 outlines that job autonomy is strongly connected to improved performance and mental health. When staff see clear prospects for development and progression, they are more engaged and less likely to leave the business.
The index also shows that when employers consistently invest in continuous professional development and additional workplace training, employees feel more valued, work more efficiently and are more likely to stay within the organisation.
Sustainability and the Net Zero agenda
The Carbon Budget for 2026 targets an average 58% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across Wales by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. This serves as the next checkpoint for businesses in line with Wales’ net zero agenda.
The green economy represents both a challenge and opportunity for Welsh businesses, as we all look to reduce emissions across the board. Training programmes in relevant topics in carbon management or accredited sustainability courses equip learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support decarbonisation efforts – cutting through the often-confusing jargon and offering easily-adopted solutions for individual business needs. Our sister company ACT offer a variety of fully funded green qualifications for eligible employees, including ISEP accredited short courses and the full Energy and Carbon Management apprenticeship qualification.
Changes to Procurement and Supply
On 24th February 2025, the Procurement Act of 2023 came into effect, transforming how public bodies across England and Wales purchase goods and services.
This year, UK GOV produced a Short Guide for Suppliers to help businesses understand the changes introduced by the Act and how to navigate the new legislation. The goal is greater transparency, improved oversight and increased flexibility for businesses – creating a fairer and more equitable system for suppliers of all sizes.
While businesses are expected to benefit from a more streamlined procurement process, the reforms also introduce new challenges for 2026. These include new compliance obligations, increased competition and greater need for risk management. Qualifications like the CIPS-accredited Procurement and Supply programme equip staff with the skills needed to navigate the changes and leverage them to create new growth opportunities.
Professional training at all levels
Professional qualifications can be highly specialist. The 2025 Business Barometer Report by the Open University shows that AI and or IT-related skills such as data analysis and software development are highly sought after by employers who understand that technical expertise is an essential pillar to business success.
However, 54% of UK employers report current skills shortages within their organisation that they predict will worsen over the next 5 years. These shortages effect all areas of business and increase the workload for existing members of staff, reduce productivity and growth.
In 2026, we are encouraging more organisations to shift their focus to high level, operational, competency-based qualifications to combat these challenges and recognise training as fundamental to effective business operations.