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- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.rcsop.2026.100722
- Jun 1, 2026
- Exploratory research in clinical and social pharmacy
- Chadia Haddad + 11 more
The mediating role of perceptions of pharmaceutical policymaking on the relationship between personal attributes and public service motivation (PSM) remains unexplored, particularly among early-career pharmacists in developing countries such as Lebanon. This study aimed to explore the relationship between personal and professional attributes, specifically leadership, strategic thinking, and self-efficacy, and PSM. It also assessed whether perceptions of pharmaceutical policymaking mediate these relationships and whether these pathways vary across different pharmacist personal attribute profiles. This cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to May 2024 and included early-career pharmacists. This study used validated scales to assess personal and professional attributes. Among 504 pharmacists, 32% were early career pharmacists, 30% were senior students, and the rest were fourth-year or earlier pharmacy students. Participants were grouped into three profiles based on personal attributes: strong, moderate, and weak. Authentic leadership was positively correlated with generalized self-efficacy (r=0.465, p<0.001), research self-efficacy (r=0.273, p<0.001), strategic thinking (r=0.489, p<0.001), and public service motivation (r=0.569, p<0.001). Regression analysis showed that leadership (β=0.006, p<0.001), generalized self-efficacy (β=0.007, p<0.001), research self-efficacy (β=0.001, p=0.004), and strategic thinking (β=0.007, p<0.001) positively predicted PSM. Mediation analysis indicated significant direct effects of these traits on PSM in the total sample (all p<0.05). When the cluster group was considered as the independent variable, Pharmaceutical Policymaking Perception Scale partially mediated the relationship with PSM, with significant direct (β=-5.071, p=0.009) and indirect effects (β=-1.209, p=0.006). This research found that leadership, strategic thinking, and generalized and research self-efficacy were positively associated with public service motivation, while pharmaceutical policymaking was inversely related to it. Perception of pharmaceutical policymaking partially mediated the effect of weaker cluster membership on public service motivation. In view of the paucity of research in this area, conducting similar studies in diverse settings would help confirm the current results and further consolidate the causal relationships between these concepts. Meanwhile, education and research should prioritize early-career pharmacists' personal attributes to empower them in optimizing their profession and enhancing patient care.
- Research Article
- 10.32517/0234-0453-2026-41-1-100-108
- May 4, 2026
- Informatics and education
- I V Trifonov + 3 more
The article investigates mechanisms for integrating management decisions into the higher education process within the context of digital transformation. The contemporary digital environment necessitates the development and implementation of comprehensive management systems aimed at forming students’ strategic thinking competencies and informed decision-making capabilities under technological uncertainty. The study aims to develop a conceptual model of management decisions for the digital educational environment of the university and identify key factors influencing its implementation effectiveness. The methodological framework employed a comprehensive approach, including analysis of existing digitalization practices in education, systematization of management tools, and expert evaluation of adaptive learning technologies implementation results. The empirical basis included 150 third-year students majoring in 38.03.01 “Economics” at the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation during September—December 2025. The study applied content analysis of digital educational platforms, expert interviews with faculty and program directors, and monitoring of academic performance and student engagement indicators. Results demonstrate that implementing management decisions through adaptive technologies contributes to a 28.3% increase in student motivation for specialized knowledge accumulation, a 34.7 % improvement in decision-making quality in educational cases, and a 31.9 % increase in self-efficacy levels. A significant relationship was established between the structuredness of management processes in the educational environment and students’ academic outcomes (r = 0.742, p < 0.001). The theoretical significance lies in expanding understanding of mechanisms for developing management competencies in the digital educational environment. The practical value is determined by the applicability of the developed model for improving educational programs in economics, management, and related disciplines.
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.nedt.2026.106989
- May 1, 2026
- Nurse education today
- Alberto Gallart + 7 more
Enhancing the perceived clinical leadership competence of nursing undergraduates through service-learning unit led by students: A quasi-experimental study.
- Research Article
- 10.55401/nhgynf69
- Apr 28, 2026
- Journal of Science and Technology
- Hong Anh Tuan
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence changes the paradigm shift across the global economy and society. This study analyzes, syndicates findings from experts in AI, educators, and policy makers to comprehensive assess the impacts of AI on the education, employment and important social issues. Qualitative thematic synthesis and data extraction were applied to compare and establish a consolidates view of consensus or contradictions. The findings indicate that application of AI has outpaced previous technological revolutions, expect over 80% of companies to use AI or develop related tools in 2027; AI threatens codified knowledge jobs but increase jobs requiring creativity and strategic thinking; accelerating enable AI in learning while protecting academic integrity; job displacement, data security and ethical issues are important problems in the AI era. Research recommends providing mandatory, interdisciplinary AI knowledge, re-designing curriculum toward foundational and human-centered skills, and establishing robust governance for responsible AI use.
- Research Article
- 10.71112/33e36q75
- Apr 22, 2026
- Revista Multidisciplinar Epistemología de las Ciencias
- Berenice Ceja Guzman + 1 more
The present study analyzes the level of development of managerial skills among students related to the gastronomic and business fields, considering their relevance in restaurant and food service management. The research was conducted under a quantitative approach, with a descriptive type and a non-experimental cross-sectional design. A survey was applied using a structured questionnaire with a Likert-type scale, evaluating dimensions such as socio-emotional competence, interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, analytical thinking, communication, leadership, and time management. The results showed a predominance of a high level in managerial skills (75%), highlighting the dimensions of time management (86%) and decision-making and leadership (81%). However, weaknesses were identified in socio-emotional competence, suggesting the need to strengthen soft skills. In conclusion, although a favorable managerial profile exists, comprehensive training strategies are required to optimize performance in the gastronomic sector.
- Research Article
- 10.30640/ekonomika45.v13i2.6063
- Apr 22, 2026
- EKONOMIKA45 : Jurnal Ilmiah Manajemen, Ekonomi Bisnis, Kewirausahaan
- Nabela Febriyanti + 3 more
The rapid advancement of technology, digital transformation, and the increasing complexity of the global workforce have fundamentally reshaped the competencies required of future human resource (HR) leaders. In an era characterized by uncertainty, disruption, and continuous change, traditional leadership competencies are no longer sufficient to ensure organizational sustainability and competitiveness. This study aims to examine the relative importance of adaptive intelligence compared to emotional intelligence (EQ) within the context of HR leadership toward 2030. The research adopts a qualitative, literature-based approach by employing content analysis of secondary data derived from global institutional reports and peer-reviewed academic publications. The findings indicate that adaptive intelligence has become a more critical competency, as it integrates the ability to respond swiftly to change, engage in strategic and analytical thinking, and continuously learn in dynamic and unpredictable environments. In contrast, while emotional intelligence remains important in fostering interpersonal relationships, communication effectiveness, and team cohesion, it tends to function as a complementary rather than a primary competency in modern leadership contexts. These findings highlight a significant paradigm shift from emotion-centered leadership toward adaptation-driven leadership. This study contributes to the advancement of leadership theory by reinforcing the conceptual positioning of adaptive intelligence as a core capability for HR leaders, while also providing practical implications for organizations in designing more responsive and future-oriented leadership development strategies.
- Research Article
- 10.54691/hd8rpc85
- Apr 20, 2026
- Frontiers in Humanities and Social Sciences
- Fengshan Si + 1 more
In the context of the national curriculum-based political education reform, this study examines the significant challenges encountered in the course “Information System Analysis and Design”, specifically the ambiguity in integration pathways and the lack of a systematic evaluation framework. To address these issues, a novel educational model termed “Value-Competence Dual-Drive” is developed. This research employs case-based teaching as the primary methodology to effectively incorporate core ideological and political elements, such as strategic thinking and a spirit of craftsmanship, throughout the entire lifecycle of system development. As a result, it facilitates the simultaneous development of both professional competencies and moral values. Additionally, a closed-loop evaluation system that integrates process-oriented assessments with ethical compliance metrics is established to measure the effectiveness of political education, thereby creating a comprehensive educational feedback loop. This study offers a quantifiable and scalable framework for the political development of engineering courses, promotes the cultivation of interdisciplinary talent, and provides substantial theoretical and practical support for the implementation of moral integrity in education.
- Research Article
- 10.35912/gams.v2i4.4119
- Apr 17, 2026
- Global Academy of Multidisciplinary Studies
- Dildora K Sulaymanova
Purpose: This study explores the socio-psychological characteristics of constructiveness in leadership and its role in fostering teamwork among young managers. This highlights the importance of constructive interactions in promoting effective leadership and collaboration within organizational settings. Research Methodology: This study adopts a qualitative and theoretical approach, analyzing the existing literature in management, psychology, and organizational behavior. It examines various models of interpersonal interaction and incorporates conflict management techniques to assess their effectiveness in fostering constructive team work. Results: The study revealed that constructiveness fosters effective teamwork by promoting transparent communication, trust, open dialogue, and collaborative decision-making. It also highlights that conflict management techniques, such as compromise and problem solving, significantly improve team cohesion and organizational performance. Conclusions: Constructiveness is fundamental to modern leadership, as it fosters a positive organizational environment, motivates employees, and ensures long-term organizational growth. By applying the principles of constructiveness, teams can improve their performance and resolve conflicts more efficiently. Limitations: The study’s findings are based on theoretical analysis, and empirical validation is required to assess the practical application of constructivity in real-world management scenarios. Contributions: This study contributes to our understanding of constructiveness as a fundamental managerial skill by linking emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and leadership skills to team success.
- Discussion
- 10.1080/14747731.2026.2652706
- Apr 16, 2026
- Globalizations
- Michael J Albert
ABSTRACT It has been a pleasure to help spearhead this stimulating forum on abolitionist politics in the current conjuncture. The responses to my initial article raise some disagreements regarding the value of ‘security’ for counterhegemonic politics, the role of the state, and the kind of strategic thinking needed to advance abolitionist goals effectively. This brief response will address these critiques while also elaborating my working theory of how left populism can serve as a viable transitional strategy for navigating towards a longer-term abolitionist future.
- Research Article
- 10.33899/rjss.v29i90.60828
- Apr 15, 2026
- Al-Rafidain Journal For Sport Sciences
- حيدر محمد مصلح
The great challenge facing individuals and sports institutions is determined by a series of leaderships and the quality of performance that vary in their nature, size, and stimulating factors. There is no doubt that one of these sports institutions is the Youth and Sports Forums that seek to perform their tasks and achieve their goals under normal conditions. As for the importance of the research, it lies in that it sheds light on one of the relatively modern concepts in sports management, namely the strategic leadership of the directors of Youth and Sports Forums and the extent of their interaction with it wisely and competently through a set of processes and procedures necessary to manage the Youth and Sports Forums according to plans and programs prepared for this purpose, including organizational prosperity, job performance, and making appropriate decisions. research objectives (preparing and applying the measures of strategic leadership, organizational prosperity, and job performance of the directors of Youth and Sports Forums in Iraq from the point of view of the sports supervisors), and the descriptive approach with the survey method was used for its suitability and the nature of the research problem, where the research population and its samples were determined. The researcher followed the steps of preparing and applying the three measures. The most important conclusion (Diagnosing the Youth and Sports Forums of leaders with strategic thinking represents the first step to building and developing their forums and managing them effectively), and the most important recommendation (Supporting the development of organizational policies and work environments that stimulate personal and professional growth in the forums and work to enhance the well-being of employees and appreciate their efforts)..
- Research Article
- 10.70382/caijarss.v11i2.046
- Apr 12, 2026
- International Journal of African Research Sustainability Studies
- Adewale John Adeleye + 1 more
The growing unpredictability and competitive volatility of the global economy require business enterprises to adopt entrepreneurial leadership which is a more effective form of leadership that differs fundamentally from traditional leadership concepts. It also necessitates them to develop innovative initiatives, explore new opportunities, and embrace creative approaches. This study examined entrepreneurial leadership and entrepreneurial innovation as drivers of business performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Nigeria. The study employed survey research design which involves the use of structured questionnaire to collect data from owners and managers of SMEs. The selection of the participants was based on purposive sampling technique. 55 copies of questionnaire were administered to Nigerian SMEs owners and managers, 47 copies were dully filled and considered valid for the purpose of this research. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation on Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software Version 25. Findings revealed that entrepreneurial leadership has a significant moderate positive correlation (r = 0.638**, p = 0.000) with business performance of SMEs, while entrepreneurial innovation has a significant strong positive correlation (r = 0.710**, p = 0.000) with business performance of SMEs. The study concludes that both entrepreneurial leadership and entrepreneurial innovation drive the organisational growth and success of SMEs in the study area. Thus, the study recommends that SMEs should continuously develop competencies such as strategic thinking, opportunity recognition, risk management, and creativity. Also, SMEs should foster an innovation-oriented organisational culture by encouraging employees to generate new ideas, experiment with new approaches, and participate in problem-solving.
- Research Article
- 10.1177/14703572261418123
- Apr 11, 2026
- Visual Communication
- Grant Ellmers + 2 more
While design expertise has been widely studied across domains such as industrial design, engineering and architecture, visual communication design has received limited attention. Earlier research examined novice designers’ development of reflective capability, and its link to expertise progression. This study extends that work by investigating how expertise manifests and is fostered among experienced designers within visual communication design practice. Through in-depth interviews with five experienced designers (20–35 years’ industry experience), this qualitative case study employed thematic analysis grounded in Schön’s reflective-practice theory and Lawson and Dorst’s (2013) design-expertise model. This approach enabled close examination of how reflective processes, mentoring structures and studio cultures shape expertise development within professional contexts. Findings revealed characteristics associated with advanced levels of expertise, including progression from technical to strategic thinking, cultivation of collaborative studio cultures, structured reflection practices and interdisciplinary knowledge integration. The analysis identified tensions between participants’ stated values and the structural realities of practice, such as hidden hierarchies, selective mentoring and the influence of privilege on expertise trajectories. The study extends existing expertise frameworks by linking reflective processes and collaborative practices with the structural conditions of work, providing a basis for understanding how expertise develops and is sustained in visual communication design practice. This basis highlights the need to investigate how technological change is reshaping learning pathways and the strategies through which expertise will be developed and sustained within AI-integrated design practices.
- Research Article
- 10.4018/ijabim.406561
- Apr 6, 2026
- International Journal of Asian Business and Information Management
- Madumi Perera + 1 more
While prior research often treats sustainability learning (SL) and pro-sustainable behaviour (PSB) as unified constructs, such an approach obscures the differentiated pathways through which SL translates into action. This study addresses this gap by disaggregating the relationship between five SL competencies (systems, anticipatory, normative, strategic, and interpersonal thinking) and three PSB dimensions (pro-environmental, pro-social, and pro-economic behaviour). Using partial least squares–structural equation modelling with data from 182 accounting professionals in Sri Lanka, the study finds that interpersonal thinking is the dominant driver across all three PSB dimensions, while normative thinking significantly influences pro-economic behaviour and anticipatory thinking shapes pro-social behaviour. Surprisingly, systems thinking and strategic thinking show no significant direct effects, implying contextual and organisational mediation effects. These findings challenge the assumption that all SL competencies contribute equally to PSB; the findings thus highlight the need to prioritise interpersonal and normative competencies to achieve better PSB outcomes.
- Research Article
- 10.30476/jamp.2025.107001.2187
- Apr 1, 2026
- Journal of Advances in Medical Education & Professionalism
- Hekmat Allah Moradi + 5 more
Introduction: This study is novel in that it is one of the first efforts in Iran to develop and validate a culturally relevant assessment tool tailored to evaluate the professional competencies of emergency managers. The study provides a foundation for evidence-based training of managers, competency development, and improved disaster preparedness and response in Iran by addressing this unmet need.Methods: This methodological exploratory study which aimed to design and validate a competency assessment tool for the education of emergency managers was conducted in 2022. First, an item pool was collected from the literature review (previously designed questionnaires and existing models of reflection) and experts' and researchers' perspectives. After that, 40 experts were shown the first draft of the questionnaire to assess its face and content validity. To assess the construct validity, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were done. 288 participants consciously completed the questionnaire. The data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26.0 (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) Statistics and AMOS 26.0 software.Results: The study yielded a structured questionnaire with 36 items across eight competency areas, including Critical thinking, Strategic thinking, Knowledge and experience, Skill management, Effective Communication, Ethical, Resiliency, and Personality. The content validity index (CVI), content validity ratio (CVR), and impact score (IS) for the questionnaire were 0.97, 0.62, and 4.61, respectively. This tool demonstrated strong reliability (Cronbach's alpha=0.74) and robust convergent and discriminant validity. EFA identified eight key factors that, taken together, explained 51.9 percent of the overall variation. CFA revealed that there was a positive and significant correlation.Conclusion: The findings confirmed that the assessment tool is a valid and reliable instrument for evaluating professional competencies in Iranian emergency managers. Beyond assessment, it offers a foundation for developing competency-based training strategies that enhance the effectiveness and resilience of emergency response teams. This tool was designed with cultural adaptation to address current limitations and can potentially significantly influence Iran's emergency management procedures in the future.
- Research Article
- 10.1080/09540962.2026.2651719
- Apr 1, 2026
- Public Money & Management
- Peter Eckersley + 1 more
ABSTRACT The authors draw on secondary analyses of central–local relations in England over recent decades to suggest that conflicting perspectives on what local government should be for—its role in the UK state—have resulted in an unstable and incoherent governance landscape, hampered strategic thinking, and made it more difficult for public bodies to address pressing challenges. Specifically, ministerial efforts to use local authorities primarily as a mechanism for achieving national policy priorities have created a context of local dependence and central control, which undermines local desires for greater independence and autonomy to shape places. These opposing views lead to mutual distrust and hinder attempts at greater vertical interdependence, despite broader recognition that more joined-up approaches can increase the capacity of the state to achieve its objectives. We suggest that recent reforms outlined in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill (published in July 2025) will leave these tensions unresolved.
- Research Article
- 10.55737/trt/v-i.205
- Mar 30, 2026
- The Regional Tribune
- Zain Ul Abideen + 2 more
Culture, history and geography play a fundamental role in building perceptual framework of a state towards its enemies. These are the combined factors regarded as the constitutive elements of strategic culture. Diverse strategies are adopted by strategic thinkers to interpret, analyze and respond to strategic situations. It involves using force, building alliance or compromising to the demands of dominant powers. The preference for certain decisions and options in the face of crisis remains almost uniform. These peculiar choices remain a topic of significant exploration among regional and global security analysts. The strategic equation of India and Pakistan is complex and filled with the elements of mutual hostility, distrust along with traditional and non-traditional security threats. These threats develop a distinctive perceptual framework for each country. This unique approach mostly marked by skepticism and ill-will has been primarily remained major obstacle in making the SAARC successful. Indians see Pakistan as only south Asian country with the potential and desire to contest their regional hegemony, while Pakistanis see India as an eternal enemy and risk for its survival. The aim of this article is to explore the origin of strategic culture of both countries and how it has thwarted regional integration. The constituent elements of Strategic culture are analyzed in the qualitative research methodology with special emphasis on content analysis of documents for understanding and interpreting the narratives and discourses surrounding strategic culture. This research concludes that through strategic initiatives, institutional changes and policy changes, the dream of regional integration in South Asia can be materialized.
- Research Article
- 10.1097/ec9.0000000000000179
- Mar 27, 2026
- Emergency and Critical Care Medicine
- Wen Zheng + 9 more
Cardiac arrest occurs rapidly, requires high timeliness in treatment, and has a poor prognosis. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a key intervention to save the lives of patients with cardiac arrest. In recent years, CPR has made significant progress with the update of evidence-based research and technological development. The evolution of specific recommendations in international guidelines reflects the changes in the certainty of and understanding about emerging evidence. To unravel the logical progression of cognitive development in the CPR field, this review systematically clarifies the evidence base and evolutionary history of recommendations for core components of adult CPR, including the chain of survival, interruptions in compressions, high-quality CPR, early defibrillation, dispatcher-assisted CPR, extracorporeal CPR, and temperature control. Moreover, it identifies knowledge gaps and proposes potential development directions to provide systemic insights and strategic thinking in CPR for providers, researchers, and healthcare administrators.
- Research Article
- 10.1108/jkm-03-2025-0362
- Mar 25, 2026
- Journal of Knowledge Management
- Susan Akinwalere + 1 more
Purpose Artificial intelligence (AI) has rapidly evolved from a conceptual idea to an integral part of human life, transforming the way people work, communicate and navigate the world. Following the technological advancement, a symbiotic relationship has emerged between AI and human intelligence (AI–HI), affecting the development of the knowledge ecosystem knowledge ecosystem (KE). Yet, as the underlying effect mechanism is still unclear, this research is thus keen to bridge the knowledge gap. Design/methodology/approach To deliver the research purpose, an interpretative and qualitative methodology is planned, in which a systematic literature review is used for data analysis. The authors have gathered literature of AI–HI, KE and cognate themes from the renowned database portals, including ProQuest, JSTOR and Google Scholar. Strategies to improve research analytic rigor are arranged, and ethical guidelines are also applied. Findings Research findings are meaningful in three ways: First, the authors have clarified how AI enhances HI by rapidly processing vast amounts of data, identifying patterns and generating insights that would take humans significantly longer to uncover. Second, the findings have demonstrated that HI remains essential for interpreting AI-generated outputs, ensuring ethical considerations and applying contextual knowledge that machines lack, fostering a balanced knowledge ecosystem. Third, the synergy between AI and HI leads to more innovative problem-solving, interdisciplinary research advancements and accelerated scientific discoveries, ultimately transforming the landscape of knowledge creation. Practical implications Several practical implications arise from the integration of AI and HI for the advancement of KE for institutional decision-making. Organizations and research institutions can implement AI–HI-driven decision support systems, wherein AI generates data-driven recommendations, while human expertise ensures critical evaluation, ethical considerations and contextual relevance in developing KE and in final decision-making. Across diverse disciplines, researchers can integrate AI models with human expertise to address complex problems, for instance, using AI in humanities research or applying machine learning techniques in medical diagnostics, with human oversight for validation. To maintain the integrity of the knowledge ecosystem, institutions should develop robust frameworks in which AI-generated insights undergo rigorous scrutiny by human experts, ensuring fairness, transparency and alignment with ethical standards. Originality/value The manuscript has advanced the KE knowledge by clarifying the symbiotic roles of AI and HI, such as how AI augments human creativity, intuition and strategic thinking while humans guide AI’s analytical precision and computational strength. Based on research findings, the authors develop ethical guidelines to ensure that AI contributions in KE align with human-centered knowledge goals, emphasizing AI as a complement to human creativity rather than a replacement.
- Research Article
- 10.64388/irev9i9-1715440
- Mar 24, 2026
- Iconic Research and Engineering Journals
- Aditya Pandey + 1 more
Artificial Intelligence has emerged as one of the most influential technological developments of the modern era, significantly impacting a wide range of professional sectors, including the legal field. The growing use of intelligent computer systems has transformed traditional legal practices by assisting lawyers, judges, and legal researchers in managing large volumes of legal information. Modern digital tools are now capable of analyzing complex legal documents, identifying relevant case laws, and supporting legal decision-making processes with greater speed and accuracy than traditional methods. The integration of advanced technologies into the legal profession has led to improvements in efficiency, productivity, and accessibility of legal services. Tasks that previously required extensive manual effort, such as document review, contract analysis, and legal research, can now be performed more quickly with the assistance of automated systems. As a result, legal professionals are able to devote more time to strategic thinking, interpretation of laws, and client interaction. Despite these advantages, the increasing reliance on technological systems in legal environments also raises several important concerns. Issues related to fairness, transparency, accountability, and data protection have become significant topics of discussion among researchers, policymakers, and legal practitioners. Questions arise regarding how automated systems make decisions, whether they can reproduce existing biases present in legal data, and how responsibility should be assigned when technological tools influence legal outcomes. This research paper examines the relationship between modern intelligent technologies and the legal system by exploring their practical applications, advantages, potential risks, and regulatory implications. The study relies on qualitative analysis of existing academic literature, policy reports, and legal technology studies to understand current developments in this field. The findings indicate that while technological innovation has the potential to improve the efficiency and accessibility of legal services, it must be implemented with appropriate safeguards and regulatory oversight
- Research Article
- 10.1177/09504222261438628
- Mar 24, 2026
- Industry and Higher Education
- Elizabeth N Christian + 4 more
This qualitative study explores how professionals across industries are using generative artificial intelligence (AI) and what their experiences suggest for higher education. Through interviews with 10 professionals, the study investigates: (1) What forms of AI-related training are available to employees? (2) How do professionals describe existing policies (or their absence) governing AI use in the workplace? (3) In what ways are AI tools being adopted across sectors, and for what types of tasks? and (4) How do professionals perceive AI’s influence on efficiency, expectations, and required skills? Four key findings emerged: participants engaged in self-led AI learning through experimentation; organizational policies were absent or just emerging; adoption patterns varied by role, sector, and initiative; and AI tools were primarily used for content generation, data-informed decisions, and overcoming creative blocks, reshaping job expectations toward adaptability, creativity, and strategic thinking. Findings suggest that generative AI is transforming tasks and altering how professionals learn, decide, and collaborate. In response, four implications for higher education are: rethinking AI learning through experiential and playful approaches, building AI awareness and ethical confidence, supporting thoughtful adoption across disciplines, and fostering skills for effective human-AI collaboration. Preparing students will require technical exposure and critically engaged, ethically grounded practice.