Dr. Shaista E. Khilji’s World Economic Forum Article Recognized for Leadership Insights on AI Adoption


July 28, 2026

Dr. Shaista Khilji headshot

GSEHD faculty member Dr. Shaista E. Khilji, professor of Human and Organizational Learning, and her research collaborator, David Timis, recently published an article for the World Economic Forum examining how organizations can better prepare employees for the adoption of artificial intelligence in the workplace.

The article introduces the concept of the “five faces of AI readiness,” highlighting that employees do not respond to AI in the same way and that successful implementation requires leaders to understand and address varying levels of readiness, concern, and enthusiasm among their workforce.

Drawing on research and organizational practice, Khilji and Timis argue that effective AI adoption is not solely a technological challenge but also a human one. Their work emphasizes the importance of leadership strategies that help employees navigate change while building trust and confidence in emerging technologies.

The article gained significant attention and was subsequently ranked the top workplace culture article by Inspiring Workplaces. The publication cited the article's focus on human-centered leadership, particularly its emphasis on trust, manager capability, and psychological safety as critical drivers of employee engagement, retention, and wellbeing in an era increasingly shaped by AI.

The recognition underscores the growing importance of research that bridges technology and human development. Dr. Khilji’s work continues to advance understanding of how organizations can successfully integrate innovation while supporting the people at the center of change.

This achievement highlights GSEHD’s leadership in organizational learning and workforce development and reflects the school’s commitment to addressing the opportunities and challenges created by emerging technologies.