AI Gender Gap Widens as Women Show More Skepticism

New research suggests that enthusiasm for artificial intelligence differs significantly between men and women in the workplace. A recent survey indicates that men are generally more optimistic about the technology, while many women remain cautious about its growing role in professional environments.

According to CNBC’s fifth annual Women at Work survey conducted with SurveyMonkey, 69 percent of men describe artificial intelligence as a valuable assistant and collaborator. Among women, that figure drops to 61 percent. The survey highlights a broader difference in attitudes as businesses rapidly integrate AI tools across industries.

The research gathered responses from 6,330 participants between February 10 and February 16. The findings arrive more than three years after the launch of ChatGPT by OpenAI, a milestone that triggered a global surge in generative AI tools. Since then, platforms from major technology firms such as Google and Microsoft have expanded AI features into search engines, productivity software, coding assistants, and media creation tools.

Despite the rapid adoption of these technologies, many women remain skeptical. Half of the female respondents said using AI at work can feel like cheating. Only 43 percent of men expressed the same concern. The perception suggests that some professionals still question whether AI assistance undermines traditional work skills or personal contributions.

Usage patterns also show a notable divide. Nearly two thirds of women surveyed, about 64 percent, said they never use AI tools at work. Among men, that number was slightly lower at 55 percent. Frequent usage also tilts toward male workers. Around 14 percent of men reported using AI multiple times per day, compared with 9 percent of women.

Corporate leaders continue to emphasize the importance of adopting the technology. JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon recently described artificial intelligence as critical to the company’s long term success. During the bank’s 2026 investor day, he noted that nearly two thirds of employees already use an internal large language model to assist with daily work tasks.

Dimon also warned that AI could reshape the labor market by eliminating some roles while creating demand for new skills. As a result, many companies now prioritize employee training programs that help workers understand and apply AI tools effectively.

Interestingly, even though men currently use AI more frequently, many still acknowledge a skills gap. The survey found that 59 percent of male respondents believe they need additional training to use AI effectively at work. Meanwhile, 39 percent worry they could miss career opportunities if they fail to adopt the technology. Among women, 35 percent share the same fear.

Some female professionals remain unconvinced that avoiding AI will harm their careers. About 42 percent of women strongly disagree with the idea that failing to use AI could lead to professional disadvantages, compared with 36 percent of men.

Experts warn that the divide could widen existing gender gaps in leadership and career advancement. Sheryl Sandberg, founder of LeanIn.Org and former executive at Meta Platforms, has cautioned that unequal adoption of new technology can create long term consequences.

Sandberg explained that workers who understand and use AI tools will likely gain a competitive advantage as organizations restructure their workflows around automation and data driven decision making. If women adopt the technology at a slower pace, they may face challenges competing for promotions or leadership roles.

The implications extend beyond individual careers. Economists warn that unequal technology adoption can reduce workforce diversity in emerging digital fields. Businesses that rely heavily on AI could unintentionally reinforce existing inequalities if training and access remain uneven.

Looking ahead, organizations may need to address this challenge through inclusive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and transparent policies that encourage responsible AI use. Closing the gender gap in AI adoption could help ensure that technological progress benefits the entire workforce rather than a limited segment of it.

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries, the debate around trust, training, and fairness will likely remain central to the future of work.