85% plan to upskill in FY26, with AI & ML leading as the top choice
Generative AI, Agentic AI, Python, and Natural Language Processing emerge as the most In-demand skills
Bengaluru, September 2025: Great Learning, the global edtech company, has released the findings of its survey with Indian engineers, commemorating Engineers’ Day. The survey reveals that 67% of Indian engineers feel their current roles are being impacted by AI. 86% of engineers agree that upskilling is no longer optional but vital to safeguard their careers against rapid technological shifts. This underscores a growing awareness that continuous learning is crucial for career longevity in an evolving landscape.
85% of Engineers Plan to Invest in Upskilling in FY26, Amidst AI Disruptions
The survey reveals that 85% of engineers intend to upskill in FY26, with Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning emerging as the top domains of choice. These are followed by Data Science and Analytics, Software Development, Cloud Computing, and Cybersecurity. Within AI & ML, Generative AI and Agentic AI stand out as the most sought-after skills, along with foundational capabilities in Python programming and Natural Language Processing (NLP). Career advancement remains the strongest motivator, with professionals citing financial growth (20%), promotions (12%), new opportunities (12%), and avoiding skill obsolescence (11%) as their key drivers.
66% of Engineers Prefer Short-Term Courses to Stay Job-Ready
Engineers are choosing speed and practicality when it comes to learning. Two-thirds (66%) prefer courses with less than six months duration, while only 5% are willing to commit more than a year. A majority of engineers are turning to certificate programs from Indian and global universities instead of traditional Master’s or Doctorates, giving them faster access to job-ready skills. This move signals the urgency with which professionals are working to match the pace of organizations adopting new technologies and demanding tech readiness from day one.
85% of engineers are considering a job switch
The survey highlights significant career fluidity, with 85% of engineers either actively or passively seeking new jobs this year. According to the survey, the primary workplace concerns among Indian engineers are work-life balance (33%), job security (18%), and career stagnation (14%).
Talking about the importance of continuous learning as an Engineer, Maruti Rao Taluru said, “Working in the aerospace industry has shown me first-hand how quickly technology is transforming the world around us, which is why I decided to invest in learning AI and ML. These skills are reshaping not just aerospace but every sector. For future engineers, my advice is to build strong fundamentals while nurturing curiosity, resilience, and adaptability. By engaging with peers and mentors and applying your learning to real-world challenges, you can future-proof your career and contribute to India’s growth in an AI-driven era.”
Hari Krishnan Nair, Co-Founder, Great Learning, said, “Being an engineer today is vastly different from what it was two decades ago. Engineers are at the very forefront of witnessing and driving the massive shifts brought about by AI and other emerging technologies. The skills that once defined success are no longer enough; today’s engineers must continuously adapt, reskill, and expand their expertise to stay relevant. At Great Learning, more than half of our learners come from engineering backgrounds — a strong testament to how this community is embracing lifelong learning. By mastering next-generation skills in AI, data, cloud, and cybersecurity, engineers are not only preparing themselves for the future of work but also driving India’s progress into a decade defined by deep tech and innovation.”
As India stands on the cusp of an AI-driven future, the survey underscores that engineers are not only aware of the disruptions reshaping their profession but are actively preparing to thrive in this new reality. With a clear focus on upskilling in next-generation domains such as AI, ML, data, and cloud, coupled with a preference for agile, industry-focused certificate programs, engineers are positioning themselves as the backbone of the country’s tech transformation. This collective commitment to continuous learning and adaptability highlights the pivotal role Indian engineers will play in shaping innovation, competitiveness, and long-term economic growth in the years ahead.
