**The big picture:** Despite significant investments in artificial intelligence, a new study reveals a substantial gap between executive expectations and actual employee AI adoption and optimism. **Why it matters:** This disconnect highlights a critical challenge for organizations aiming to leverage AI for productivity gains, impacting talent development strategies and the overall future of work. **Between the lines:** - Only about half of employees regularly use AI or feel optimistic about its impact, despite two-thirds understanding its value. - Top Workplaces outperform peers in AI readiness, emphasizing the role of strong organizational culture. - The largest gap between leading and average organizations is in AI training, not awareness. **Staffing & HR impact:** Staffing firms and HR leaders must prioritize robust AI training programs and foster supportive cultures to drive adoption, directly influencing workforce efficiency and talent retention. **The bottom line:** AI's true potential in the workplace hinges on effective employee enablement, not just technological availability.