Bridging the AI Gap: youngsters and men use AI frequently, women and ‘more experienced’ workers are hesitant

Diegem, 14 May 2025 – According to a survey conducted by PwC Belgium, only one third of Belgian workers who spend at least an hour a day on a computer regularly use general AI applications like ChatGPT. Additionally, 40% of workers do not interact with these tools at all. For the second consecutive year, PwC Belgium surveyed 1,000 white-collar workers about their interaction with AI technologies. The survey indicated lower adoption rates among older employees and women for daily use of Generative AI. Surprisingly, the data shows that as employees spend more hours working on their computers, they tend to show less interest in using AI tools. Xavier Verhaeghe, Technology and Innovation Lead at PwC Belgium, states, “Although AI is becoming more prevalent in workplaces, a significant portion of the workforce has yet to embrace these technologies. Implementing AI tools and fostering an AI-driven culture are essential steps to harness the full potential of AI. Meanwhile, as the technology evolves rapidly, the disparity between proficient AI users and non-users continues to widen.”

The AI gap is widening

PwC Belgium conducted an online survey among 1,000 Belgians who use a computer at least an hour a day at work for the second consecutive year. The survey examines the usage and attitudes toward AI technology among Belgian white-collar workers. Last year, 13% of employees reported that they regularly or always use AI at work. Now, 34% of employees are using generic AI tools in their jobs regularly. Despite this increase, 40% of the respondents do not use AI at work. When considering various profiles, the national language and education level show little impact on AI usage, whereas gender and age reveal notable differences.

Men are more likely than women to regularly use AI at work (42% vs. 24%). When it comes to daily use of general AI tools, men are more than twice as likely to use them than women (19% vs. 9% respectively). Women are more likely to report never using AI tools.

Younger people are more likely to regularly use AI tools compared to older generations. For generic AI tools, usage is 49% for those under 34, 28% for those aged 35-54, and 19% for those over 55. For specific AI tools, the rates are 34%, 15%, and 11%, respectively. Daily use of generic AI tools is highest among those under 34 (25%), and significantly lower for those aged 35-54 and over 55 (both 9%).

Interestingly, employees who work with a computer throughout the day seem to exhibit a lower inclination towards AI tools. The proportion of individuals who report never using AI tools is highest among those who work with computers all day (proportion never using generic AI tools: 1-2 hours: 52%; 3-4 hours: 9%; 5-6 hours: 46%; all day: 59%, specific tools: 1-2 hours: 60%; 3-4 hours: 62%; 5-6 hours: 61%; all day: 75%).

Natacha Dewyngaert, Director PwC Belgium: "It is concerning to witness a growing divide between gender and age, particularly as companies—especially those in highly digitalised sectors—struggle to effectively introduce AI to their workforce. The benefits of AI are substantial for both employees and companies, yet a gap in understanding may prevent its full potential to enhance efficiency and productivity from being realised. By adopting a gradual approach to AI—starting with small, impactful projects—organisations can set the stage for swift and scalable advancements. It's essential that no one is left behind in this technological evolution."

AI tools: job tools, general use and AI agents

Workers are beginning to explore the vast potential of artificial intelligence (AI) as new technologies continue to develop rapidly. When examining AI implementation, it is observed that generic AI tools are more commonly used than job-specific or self-designed AI tools. Approximately 15% of workers use generic AI tools daily, and 19% use them at least once a week. Conversely, about 9% of respondents state they use specific AI tools daily, while 8% use self-designed AI tools at least once a week.

AI Agents can autonomously execute tasks by understanding context and having access to information and applications, enhancing staff efficiency and customer satisfaction while reducing client-related errors. Despite their high potential, companies have not widely adopted these innovations. In Belgium, 67% of those polled haven't heard of AI agents, 12% are aware but don't understand them, 11% know about them but lack experience, and 10% have worked with them, even if minimally.

Xavier Verhaeghe, PwC Belgium Technology Lead, states: “The rapid evolution of technology presents a challenge for companies striving to keep pace. It is crucial that AI seamlessly integrates into processes and daily operations, empowering the workforce where it's most relevant. Job-specific AI tools not only assist in automation but also provide richer, clearer, and more rapidly gained insights that are easier to interpret. Implementing AI extends beyond mere tool deployment; it's about embedding a transformative new way of working. This endeavour should be approached thoughtfully to build support and consensus throughout the organisation."

About PwC Belgium’s Bridging the AI Gap survey

The Bridge the AI Gap survey is an online survey conducted by research bureau iVOX on behalf of PwC Belgium from 10-18 April 2025 among 1,000 Belgians who use a computer professionally. The survey is representative in terms of language, gender, age and diploma. The maximum margin of error for 1,000 Belgians is 3.02%.

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