TLDR: A recent PwC report highlights a significant gap in artificial intelligence expertise among company board members, even as AI technologies are rapidly advancing and being widely adopted across industries. More than one-third of directors indicate their boards have not received adequate AI education, raising concerns about effective oversight and strategic guidance in the evolving AI landscape.
A new report from PwC, published on October 1, 2025, sheds light on a critical challenge facing modern enterprises: a pronounced lack of artificial intelligence (AI) expertise within corporate boardrooms. This deficiency is emerging at a time when AI technologies are not only advancing at an unprecedented pace but are also being integrated into core business strategies and operations across various sectors.
The report’s findings indicate that a substantial portion of company directors, specifically more than one-third, feel their boards have not received sufficient education or training regarding AI. This educational deficit is particularly concerning given the widespread deployment of AI technologies, which necessitates informed decision-making at the highest levels of corporate governance.
As AI continues to reshape industries, from enhancing productivity and driving innovation to introducing complex ethical and regulatory considerations, the ability of board members to understand, oversee, and strategically guide their organizations through this transformation becomes paramount. The absence of adequate AI savvy at the board level could potentially hinder effective risk management, limit strategic opportunities, and impede the responsible development and deployment of AI within companies.
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Experts suggest that for organizations to truly harness the potential of AI while mitigating its inherent risks, it is crucial for board members to possess a foundational understanding of AI’s capabilities, implications, and governance requirements. This includes comprehending data privacy, algorithmic bias, cybersecurity risks associated with AI, and the strategic competitive advantages that AI can unlock. The PwC report serves as a timely call to action for companies to prioritize AI literacy and education for their boards, ensuring that leadership is equipped to navigate the complexities of the AI-driven future.
