Adapt to the new reality of work with free resources from Microsoft 

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In today’s job market, being able to adapt is the most valuable skill you can have. As AI, automation, and new technologies become common in every industry, workers need to learn new tools and ways of working.

Whether you’re a mid-career professional, a team leader, or a seasoned specialist, building new technical skills is no longer optional. It is a necessary step toward staying competitive, employable, and future-ready.

The new reality for professionals

Work is changing rapidly and AI is being adopted in law, marketing, finance, healthcare, education, logistics, and virtually every professional service.

According to the World Economic Forum, 39% of workers’ core skills are expected to change within the next five years. In Canada specifically, 72% of leaders are hiring for AI-specific roles and  44% of managers expect AI upskilling to become part of their role within five years These roles are not necessarily going to disappear, but they are changing.

Professionals who invest in learning new tools and technologies will not only keep their value in the job market but also open doors to new and more rewarding opportunities. This is your chance to step into high-demand roles, if you are ready. If you want to level up in your field, there are several reasons why you should consider upskilling in this job market.

How can you take charge of your own upskilling journey

Microsoft is committed to helping individuals like you to bridge the digital and AI skills gap. Through accessible online courses, and tailored learning paths, Microsoft offers practical  tools to build future-ready skills.

They’ve shared with us some flexible and career-focused resources that can help you get started. We’ve reviewed each one to make it easy for you to figure out where to start.

🧠 AI Fluency

Overview: This foundational course introduces learners to core AI concepts and explores how AI is already being used across industries. 

Why it’s useful for professionals: Understanding AI at a conceptual level helps you engage with colleagues, clients, and teams who are already using AI in their workflows. You’ll gain the vocabulary and confidence to participate in strategic conversations about technology.

Start here if you’re new to AI or want a refresher on how it applies to your industry.

🎓 Career Essentials in Generative AI

Overview: Co-developed with LinkedIn, this learning path covers the fundamentals of generative AI and its practical applications in the workplace.

Why it’s useful for professionals: Generative AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot and ChatGPT are already being used in everyday tasks like writing, research, and analysis. This course helps you understand and use these tools effectively.

Start here if you’re looking to stay competitive in your field, this course will show you how AI can augment your work.

💼 Build Your Generative AI Productivity Skills

Overview: A hands-on course that demonstrates how AI tools can enhance day-to-day tasks such as email writing, data analysis, meeting summaries, and content creation.

Why it’s useful for professionals: You’ll learn how to use AI to write faster, summarize more accurately, and reduce time spent on routine tasks. This can free you up to focus on higher-impact work.

Start here if you want to immediately apply AI to your daily workflow and improve your output.

🧭 Microsoft’s AI Skills Navigator

Overview: A curated AI assistant tool that provides recommended AI learning paths based on your current role, industry, and career goals.

Why it’s useful for professionals: This tool provides a personalized roadmap for upskilling.

Start here if you’re looking for a custom learning plan designed to move you forward in your career.

 👥 AI for Managers by Microsoft and LinkedIn

Overview: Designed for team leaders and organizational decision-makers, this course provides a strategic view of how to manage and adopt AI responsibly within an organization.

Why it’s useful for professionals:: Managers are central to building an AI-first culture. This course teaches how to plan for change, upskill teams, and lead responsibly.

Start here if you are in a leadership role, use this course to develop an AI roadmap and guide initiatives for your department or company

Take advantage of these resources to adapt to the new reality

Canada’s ability to compete in the global digital economy depends on how quickly and effectively its workforce can adapt to technological change. Upskilling is not about becoming a programmer or AI engineer overnight. It is about gaining the knowledge and tools you need to stay relevant, lead effectively, and future-proof your career.

With courses like these tailored for professionals at every level, you can learn on your own time and apply new skills immediately.