ManpowerGroup Spotlights 20% AI Talent Shortage at MWC Barcelona
ManpowerGroup’s 2026 Talent Shortage Survey finds AI model development (20%) and AI literacy (19%) are now the hardest-to-fill global skills, with 72% of employers unable to find needed talent. ManpowerGroup and Experis will present these insights at Mobile World Congress Barcelona March 2–5 to showcase services in AI upskilling.
1. Survey Findings
The 2026 Talent Shortage Survey reveals AI model and application development (20%) and AI literacy (19%) have displaced engineering and traditional IT skills to become the hardest-to-fill capabilities worldwide. Overall, 72% of employers report they cannot secure the talent they need, highlighting a deepening global scarcity.
2. MWC Barcelona Participation
From March 2 to 5, ManpowerGroup and Experis will host networking meet-ups, a hyperautomation workshop, and live podcast recordings at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. These events will demonstrate AI-driven talent acquisition solutions and emphasize upskilling and reskilling strategies for senior technology professionals.
3. Strategic Implications
By positioning itself as a leader in workforce intelligence and promoting the “human edge,” ManpowerGroup aims to capitalize on escalating demand for talent solutions. The focus on upskilling existing employees aligns with employers’ primary response to structural skill gaps, potentially unlocking new contracts and revenue streams.