McLean & Company releases guide for AI workforce development

As organizations continue to accelerate the adoption of AI, many are failing to align their workforce capabilities with their strategic goals. McLean & Company has released a new resource, the Define AI Skills Guide, which provides a structured approach for HR leaders to assess and develop the skills necessary for responsible AI utilization.

The firm classifies the required workforce competencies into two categories: technical skills—such as tool proficiency and critical evaluation—and durable skills, which include adaptability and detail-oriented judgment. The guide stresses that effective AI implementation requires a balance of both to ensure long-term organizational readiness.

Lisa Highfield, principal director of HR research and advisory services at McLean & Company, stated that AI skills development must be tethered to a clear business strategy. The firm recommends a four-step framework: identifying the specific scope of need, creating a tailorable skills library, prioritizing core competencies, and embedding these practices into ongoing HR and learning functions. The model is designed to be iterative, allowing organizations to update their skills framework as technology and strategic priorities evolve.