Workers are using artificial intelligence to seek out development opportunities within their existing roles and at other organizations, creating “a new form of workforce misalignment,” according to a University of Phoenix white paper released Friday. While employees may stay for stability, AI is encouraging them to prepare for career mobility, “making engagement increasingly conditional rather than committed,” the study said. Companies that invest in employee experiences but overlook changing abilities and expectations may face challenges. “Employees want opportunities to grow, and AI may be accelerating their capabilities and expectations more quickly than workplace systems can adapt,” the report said. AI has evolved from a productivity device into a tool to help employees “increase autonomy and navigate career decisions more independently,” according to the report, written by Jeffery Rhymes, a research fellow and doctoral faculty member. “Organizations can design thoughtful programs, policies and employee experiences, but their impact ultimately depends on how employees interpret them,” Rhymes said. When organizational intent, employee perception and workforce capability align, it can create career optimism; misalignment can indicate “disengagement, cultural friction, reduced trust and increased turnover intent.” The white paper incorporated research from two University of Phoenix Career Optimism Index studies. According to one study in 2025, 51% of employees said they were burned out, and 43% said they didn’t have access to developmental opportunities.