Where Generation Z and Millennials invest their time and money

Modern young employees are no longer waiting for instructions from management and are actively mastering artificial intelligence skills. Representatives of Generation Z and millennials spend significant resources — both financial and time — on courses, certifications, and AI-related educational programs, demonstrating record rates of acquiring new competencies. Data from major educational platforms show a sharp rise in targeted learning in the field of artificial intelligence, and global research indicates that young specialists are already reshaping their career plans in accordance with the realities of a rapidly changing labor market.

Targeted learning

A Deloitte survey among members of Generation Z and millennials showed that nearly six out of ten Gen Z representatives and 57% of millennials believe that the spread of generative AI will require retraining and directly influence their career decisions. The study also revealed significant use of generative AI in the professional activities of young specialists, while noting concerns about long-term employability without continuous skills development. For such employees, the key to success is learning faster, deeper, and more purposefully, turning education into a strategic tool for career development.

Coursera’s global skills report confirms this trend. In 2023, users registered for generative AI courses almost every minute. In 2024, the registration rate increased fourfold, and the number of GenAI course registrations grew 1060% year over year. The report showed that learners actively allocate time to earning certificates that guarantee practical AI skills, rather than just theoretical knowledge.

Fresh Udemy data on learning activity confirms this trend in the online education market. AI-related courses are among the fastest-growing categories, with Generation Z actively mastering prompt creation, applied GenAI tools, and basic AI concepts. Corporate consumption of generative AI content continues to grow, showing that these skills are finding direct application in professional work.

What motivates young people to study actively

The LinkedIn corporate learning report complements the picture from the perspective of demand from employers and employees. Four out of five professionals want to learn how to use AI in their professional activities. Learning and development teams within companies now rank upskilling and career advancement among their top priorities. Young specialists see these initiatives and respond actively, showing stable interest in AI-related content, often tied to internal mobility and the possibility of changing roles within an organization.

Historically, younger generations have always been the first to adopt new technologies and change behavior, but artificial intelligence is perceived as an especially critical skill for career mobility. Many see AI literacy as an increasing necessity amid job reductions and automation. The new reality favors those who can formulate tasks for AI, evaluate its outputs, and integrate them with professional expertise.

Young specialists, who tend to change career directions more frequently than older colleagues, are interested in developing skills that open more opportunities in the workplace. According to the Deloitte survey, most members of Generation Z and millennials regularly use generative AI and expect to work with it directly in the future. Many understand that they will need new skills and prefer employers willing to support them in acquiring those skills.

Systematic learning instead of a chaotic approach

This situation encourages learners to choose structured educational programs rather than random study of materials in the workplace. Young specialists seek intensive courses, certification programs, and clearly designed learning roadmaps that turn knowledge about AI into concrete practical skills and measurable outcomes.

Instead of endlessly watching YouTube videos and casually trying tools, career-oriented learners choose programs combining theoretical foundations, hands-on practice with AI tools, and knowledge assessments. Professional certificates in AI tools make it possible to demonstrate progress at early or mid-career stages without leaving current employment, strengthening their position in the labor market.

LinkedIn’s research confirms: employees who set clear career goals participate in learning much more actively than those who do not. Internal mobility is becoming one of the key objectives, as companies match employees’ skills with open positions and allow them to transition into roles where they can apply new knowledge and technologies.

Conclusion:

The data demonstrates a clear picture: young specialists view AI skills as a strategic investment in career stability and growth. Companies that support employees’ desire to learn gain more prepared, adaptive, and motivated workers capable of operating effectively in a rapidly developing technological environment. Generation Z and millennials are forming a new culture of continuous education, where mastering artificial intelligence tools becomes not only a way to increase productivity but also a key to a successful career.