Skills in Action: AI and the Future of Apprenticeships

In partnership with SAP, we hosted a milestone event at SAP’s HQ in Walldorf, Germany, bringing together board members, private sector leaders, policymakers, students and apprentices to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of apprenticeships and workforce development. The event explored AI as a catalyst for talent transformation, highlighting how companies can build future ready pipelines, strengthen early career opportunities, and ensure the responsible use of AI in learning and development. Participants heard insights from SAP, The Adecco Group’s Innovation Foundation, and leading global apprenticeship practitioners.

Key moments included keynotes on AI driven learning, fresh data on the future of work, and the impact of technological shifts. The event also featured a panel with students from the SAP STAR Program, who shared how they are already helping shape AI solutions across regions, including Germany, India, Hungary, Ireland, and China. Tours of SAP’s innovation spaces provided a behind the scenes look at how advanced technologies, people development, and global training models come together in practice. They highlighted why work-based learning remains central to SAP’s talent strategy and showcased real-world examples of learners working hands on with AI.

New GAN Resources Launched

Participants gained early access to two new, major GAN resources: the Principles for Responsible Apprenticeships and AI and the ROI Guides for Quality Apprenticeships. The latest guidance on “Principles for Responsible AI and Apprenticeships,” offers a practical blueprint to help organizations integrate artificial intelligence responsibly into apprenticeship programs. This timely resource arrives as AI continues to transform workplaces, job roles, and the skills employers need.

Why These Principles Matter

AI is rapidly reshaping how work gets done, driving demand for new competencies and creating both opportunities and challenges for employers and learners alike. Apprenticeship, an already proven pathway to develop future ready talent through structured, work based learning, must now evolve to remain relevant and trustworthy in an AI enabled world. Drawing upon international best practices, the Principles are a clear framework designed to help companies strengthen talent pipelines while maintaining human judgment, safety, and transparency in an era of accelerating technological change.

What It Offers

This resource provides organizations with five principles to guide the responsible integration of AI into apprenticeships. It is a tool to supports employers in upgrading existing programs or launching new ones aligned with global standards, while incorporating trust in its guidance.

Who It Is For

The Principles are designed for HR leaders, L&D teams, and business executives seeking to future‑proof their workforce strategies. Whether an organization is beginning its apprenticeship journey or expanding established programs, this resource provides a concise foundation to navigate AI adoption responsibly.