EU AI Act: Why companies need to train their employees on AI now

The EU AI Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/1689) is the first comprehensive law regulating artificial intelligence in Europe and came into force on August 1, 2024. Companies that use or develop AI systems are now faced with a clear requirement: employees must be trained to comply with the legal requirements and avoid risks.

But why is this training not just an obligation, but also a strategic opportunity? Which employees are affected? And what threatens companies that do not act now?

Why is AI training now mandatory?

The EU AI Act stipulates that companies must ensure that their employees understand the correct use of AI. Companies that use high-risk AI - for example in personnel selection, finance or the healthcare sector- are particularly affected.

• Training is mandatory for developers, operators and end users of high-risk AI

• Companies must document that their employees have been trained accordingly

• Violations of training or documentation obligations can result in high fines

Companies that rely on general-purpose AI (e.g. chatbots, AI-supported automation) should also prepare early, as new requirements will also apply here from 2025.

Which employees need to be trained?

The training obligation applies not only to IT specialists, but also to many other areas of the company:

✔ Managers & decision-makers: To ensure that AI-supported processes are legally compliant and ethically justifiable.
✔ HR teams: If AI is used in recruiting or personnel development.
✔ IT & data managers: For the secure development, implementation and management of AI systems.
✔ Employees who actively use AI systems: So that they are used transparently, securely and efficiently.

In short: every company that uses AI must deal with this new requirement.

Why should companies act now?

The new training obligations are not just a regulatory requirement - they also offer tangible benefits for companies:

✅ Legal certainty & avoidance of penalties
Companies that ignore training risk severe fines.

✅ Competitive advantage through trained employees
Employees who use AI safely and efficiently increase the company's innovative strength.

✅ Protection against liability risks
Incorrectly used AI can lead to legal problems or reputational damage - sound training helps to minimize risks.

✅ Transparency & trust with customers and partners
Responsible use of AI strengthens the corporate image and promotes trust in the brand.

The pressure on companies is growing: as early as 2025, data protection authorities will explicitly check whether AI training has been carried out.

Act now: Certified AI training for your company

Together with SCHEELEN® AG, flound. trains and certifies speakers and trainers for AI training courses in accordance with the requirements of the EU AI Act.
Speakers, trainers and companies who would like to offer their own AI training courses can find out more about training and certification here:

👉 Training and certification of AI trainers

In addition, companies can book customized, company-wide AI training directly with flound. to prepare their employees specifically for the new regulatory requirements.

👉 AI training offer