Training in artificial intelligence is vital for the UK’s future workforce, but it must place a strong emphasis on cybersecurity, data protection and safe use if organisations are to realise its benefits without increasing risk.
This is the message from Tim Killick, Business Development Director at Abingdon-based IT managed services provider, Aura Technology, following the government’s announcement that it will invest £27 million into free AI foundations training for UK adults.
“Done well, AI can unlock huge value – but without the right security guardrails, rapid adoption risks creating new vulnerabilities at scale,” said Killick.
The expanded programme aims to upskill 10 million workers by 2030, giving people the confidence to use AI tools for everyday workplace tasks. While welcoming the ambition, Killick warns that rapid adoption without adequate safeguards could expose businesses – particularly SMEs – to new cyber threats.
“AI is already transforming how people work, and improving confidence and capability is absolutely the right goal,” said Killick. “But AI training cannot just be about productivity. It must also teach people how to use these tools securely, responsibly and with a clear understanding of risk.”
He explains that many AI platforms interact directly with sensitive business data, making poor usage practices a potential security issue rather than just a skills gap.
“We regularly see organisations experimenting with AI without fully considering where their data is going, who has access to it, or how outputs are being stored and shared,” Killick said. “Without proper guidance, staff can unintentionally expose confidential information or create compliance problems.”
Killick believes the government’s programme presents an important opportunity to embed good habits from the outset, particularly for small and medium-sized organisations that may not have in-house security expertise.
“For SMEs, this kind of national training initiative could be transformational – but only if security and governance are treated as core foundations, not optional extras,” he said. “AI should be enabling growth, not creating new vulnerabilities.”
Aura Technology works with organisations across the public and private sectors to deliver secure IT environments, with cybersecurity built into day-to-day operations. Killick says demand for advice around safe AI adoption has risen sharply over the past year.
“The conversation we’re having with customers has shifted,” he added. “They’re not just asking what AI can do, but how to use it safely. Training that reflects that reality will be critical if the UK is to become a confident, responsible adopter of AI.”
