TLDR: New research by AI consultancy AINigma indicates that the increasing adoption of generative AI tools, particularly among men, could widen the gender pay gap in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and energy. The study highlights that 20% more men are utilizing GenAI compared to women, raising concerns about future workplace disparity. Businesses are urged to provide clear guidance on AI use to mitigate these risks.
London, UK – September 28, 2025 – A recent study by AI consultancy AINigma has issued a stark warning: the rapid integration of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) tools, such as ChatGPT, could significantly broaden the gender pay gap across several critical industries. The research, published today, suggests that a notable disparity in AI adoption rates between men and women is a primary driver behind this potential widening.
The study identifies sectors including construction, manufacturing, and energy as particularly vulnerable to an exacerbated gender pay gap. Additionally, industries such as logistics, utilities, private equity, and the creative arts are also projected to experience an increase in the pay disparity between genders.
According to AINigma’s findings, an average of 20% more men are currently opting into generative AI tools compared to women. Arne Mosselman, chief executive of AINigma, commented on this trend, stating, “This means there is a real possibility that GenAI could act as a catalyst to increase the gender pay gap rather than decrease it.”
The research also sheds light on the covert use of AI in the workplace, revealing that 42% of office workers are already utilizing GenAI tools, with a significant one in three keeping their usage a secret. Mosselman emphasized the implications of this hidden adoption: “With 42% of office workers saying they use GenAI at work and one in three of those workers saying they keep it a secret, businesses must offer clear direction and permission to their employees about AI use in the workplace or risk greater gender disparity in the future.”
While some sectors face a widening gap, the research also offers a more optimistic outlook for others. Industries such as legal services, the public sector, journalism, and marketing could potentially see a narrowing of the gender pay gap due to AI integration.
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The findings underscore the urgent need for businesses to implement comprehensive strategies that promote equitable access to and training in AI technologies. Without proactive measures, the current trends in GenAI adoption could inadvertently deepen existing inequalities in the workforce.
