Bridging Scotland’s data and AI skills gap for the future
Guest blog by Anna Ashton-Scott, Head of Skills at The Data Lab
Why we need a new approach to data and AI skills
In May, our annual DataFest conference took place at The Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh. It was amazing to be in a room filled with Scotland’s diverse community of innovators, educators, public servants, students, and everyone in between who came together to discuss how we are all collectively trying to navigate AI.
Our packed pre-conference event was focused on skills—one of the biggest barriers to using AI effectively in organisations. I was proud to launch our new Data & AI Skills Framework at the opening session. It’s the result of months of work and dedication by my team.
We first created a framework in 2020, after researching the data skills gap with employers in Edinburgh and South East Scotland. Delivered through our Data Skills for Work programme, it helped individuals, employers, and training providers make sense of the growing number of data-related training options.
It wasn’t about turning everyone into data scientists. It was about helping people navigate a confusing and scattered skills landscape—especially those facing barriers to upskilling, like insecure jobs, low pay, or the risk of redundancy due to automation.
Since then, the pace of change has only accelerated. The pandemic drove digital and hybrid working. Brexit disrupted the talent pipeline. And now, generative AI is rapidly changing how we work.
What the Framework delivers
In response, we repeated our research—this time at a national scale—to understand how Scotland’s data and AI skills needs have evolved. Our new framework builds on those findings.
Much of the original data skills gap still exists. But now, AI literacy—the ability to understand, use, and critically engage with AI tools—is becoming essential in all sectors. Here’s what our latest research found:
Most business leaders rate their organisation’s data and AI literacy as moderate to low.
Many public and private sector organisations cite lack of time, resources, or funding as the main barriers to upskilling.
A shortage of skilled people, limited budgets, and weak infrastructure are holding back data and AI adoption.
The most pressing skills gaps relate to applying AI concepts, understanding machine learning, and using AI in sector-specific ways.
Over half of educators say courses are still focused on basic or intermediate levels—highlighting the need for more advanced training.
To help with this, we’ve created a clear way to identify the data and AI skills people need, based on their relationship to these technologies in a work context. The framework uses personas, competency areas, and specific skills to make it easier for individuals and organisations to see a clear path to build their skills.
One of the most common challenges we hear is simply not knowing where to start. Many people feel unsure about their own digital skills—or what their team needs to succeed. Whether you’re a Data & AI Citizen, Worker, Professional or Leader, we hope this framework helps you take that first step with confidence.
Take the First Step: Explore the Framework
You can explore the full Data & AI Skills Framework—including personas, skills breakdowns, and learning pathways—on our website.
If you are interested in exploring how The Data Lab can support your organisation get in touch with us https://thedatalab.com/contact-us/
Nations and Regions Programme activities
techUK champions the tech sector throughout the UK. We work with local authorities, devolved government, and local and national policy makers to advocate for the tech sector in strengthening economic growth and resilience across the nations and regions. Visit the programme page here
techUK’s Scottish Parliamentary Reception, 28 October
This reception will provide attendees, including MSPS, with an insight into techUK’s upcoming work, and the opportunity to discuss how the tech sector can grow in Scotland. Places are limited and we are currently operating a waiting list.
Local Digital Index call for submissions of case studies 2025
Showcase how digital innovation is transforming local communities—submit your case study to techUK’s Local Digital Index today. Be part of shaping a smarter, more connected UK.
UK DES25 will bring together key stakeholders to discuss the role of digital innovation in driving economic growth, business competitiveness, and global talent development. As part of UK DES25, techUK will release the latest data from the Local Digital Index, showing the strength of different local tech ecosystems across the UK
Our members develop strong networks, build meaningful partnerships and grow their businesses as we all work together to create a thriving environment where industry, government and stakeholders come together to realise the positive outcomes tech can deliver.
Matt is leading techUK’s work with members and stakeholders across the UK to increase the Local Digital Capital across the UK’s nation and regions, build communities and to ensure that digital technology plays a key part the post-COVID-19 levelling-up recovery.
Prior to joining techUK, Matt worked for several national education charities and membership bodies to develop their regional partnerships with schools, academy trusts, local authorities, and other stakeholders. He’s also worked with local authority leaders and other stakeholders to engage communities, work with elected members and improve public services.
He holds a BA in Politics from the University of York and an MA in International Relations from the University of Leeds. Away from work he’s a keen football fan and golfer.
If you’d like to find out more about our work in the nations and regions please get in touch with Matt:
Programme Manager, SME Engagement and Nations & Regions, techUK
Stephanie Barr
Programme Manager, SME Engagement and Nations & Regions, techUK
Stephanie is the Programme Manager for SME Engagement and Nations & Regions at techUK.
Working across the two programmes, Stephanie develops activities to support the growth and development of tech SMEs and engages with members and stakeholders more broadly to help strengthen regional tech economies.
Prior to joining techUK, Stephanie worked for a political events company and as a Senior Caseworker for an MP. She holds an MA (HONS) in Politics from the University of Glasgow.
Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys travelling, climbing and playing squash.
Programme Team Assistant for Public Sector Markets, techUK
Francesca Richiusa
Programme Team Assistant for Public Sector Markets, techUK
Fran serves as the Programme Team Assistant within techUK’s Public Sector Market Programmes, where she is responsible for delivering comprehensive team support, managing administrative functions, and fostering strong relationships with members.
Prior to joining techUK in May 2025, Fran built a meaningful career in the charitable and local government sectors. She worked extensively with both victims and perpetrators of crime, and notably led the coordination of Domestic Homicide Reviews across Surrey—an initiative aimed at identifying lessons and preventing future incidents of domestic abuse.
Outside of work, Fran is an avid traveller and a proud cat mum who enjoys unwinding with her feline companions.
Report launch: techUK’s 2030 vision: a roadmap for building a digital assets economy
The UK stands on the brink of a digital revolution – one powered by blockchain and digital assets. Register today for the launch of our latest report to hear from keynote speakers, and get involved in the panel and Q&A session.
