The University of Phoenix has released a comprehensive white paper titled “Leadership Opportunities for Increasing Employee Value through Artificial Intelligence.” Authored by Andrew C. Lawlor, Ph.D., and Pamayla E. Darbyshire, DHA, MSN/CNS, both esteemed Fellows at the Center for Educational and Instructional Technology Research (CEITR), the document explores how leadership can leverage AI, particularly generative AI, to enhance workforce value.
The paper highlights pressing challenges that leaders currently face, including record-low institutional trust, with 21% of workers citing a loss of control over their professional futures and 51% reporting feelings of burnout. The authors argue that adopting AI thoughtfully, combined with targeted upskilling, can serve as effective strategies to address these issues and improve both performance and employee experience.
AI’s Role in Transforming Workplaces
According to the authors, the true value of AI emerges when leaders redesign work structures and invest in employee development. “AI’s value is realized when leaders redesign work and invest in upskilling, so people can move from routine tasks to higher-value responsibilities,” stated Lawlor. He emphasized that this blend of human development and intelligent automation is crucial for closing skills gaps and enhancing organizational performance.
The findings of the white paper reveal that AI tools and training can significantly bridge skills gaps and restore employee autonomy. Research indicates performance improvements of more than 20% associated with AI-enabled workflows. Generative AI specifically excels at automating non-value-added tasks, such as data entry and reporting, which allows employees to concentrate on strategic, creative, and customer-facing roles.
The paper also underscores that the successful implementation of AI depends on effective leadership practices, including upskilling initiatives and transformational leadership approaches that can mitigate burnout and enhance resilience.
The Economic Impact of AI
On a broader scale, the authors reference estimates suggesting that AI could contribute as much as $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. This projection highlights the urgency for organizations to develop concrete, people-centered AI strategies. “Embedding AI literacy, coaching, and clear guardrails into everyday work restores a sense of autonomy and reduces burnout,” remarked Darbyshire. She pointed out that leaders who prioritize training and create an environment for responsible AI use will likely see increased engagement, confidence, and overall results from their teams.
The complete white paper is accessible through the University of Phoenix Career Institute webpage and the College of Doctoral Studies’ Research Hub.
More information about the study and its implications can be found in the paper authored by Andrew C. Lawlor and Pamayla E. Darbyshire.
