AI is increasingly becoming an integral part of enterprise operations, yet many organizations still find themselves struggling with the skills and governance frameworks necessary to manage this advanced technology effectively. This challenge has prompted training and certification body ISACA to announce plans for the launch of a new AI governance certification, set to officially commence in early 2027. Currently, the initiative is in its beta phase, during which applications are being accepted. This certification will complement a series of AI-focused credentials that aim to equip professionals with the skills to manage AI technology in a secure and responsible manner.
Recent research from ISACA has brought to light a substantial gap in AI governance. Despite the widespread adoption of AI technologies in various workplaces, only 32% of digital trust professionals believe their organizations adequately address the risks associated with AI, such as privacy breaches, bias, and security vulnerabilities. This disparity highlights the urgent need for organizations to enhance their AI governance and risk management strategies.
As part of its broader suite of AI-related certifications, ISACA will also offer credentials such as Advanced in AI Audit (AAIA), Advanced in AI Security Management (AAISM), and Advanced in AI Risk (AAIR). The launch of these certifications comes at a pivotal moment; according to ISACA’s State of Cybersecurity 2026 report, 54% of organizations are in the process of onboarding or implementing AI solutions, a noticeable increase from the 46% reported in 2024. This upward trend underscores the growing reliance on AI technologies across various sectors.
During a media roundtable held at ISACA’s Europe conference in Munich, Germany, on October 8, Chris Dimitriadis, ISACA’s chief global strategy officer, emphasized the importance of the governance certification. He stated, “The governance certification is important in terms of providing an umbrella around the operations of professions from cyber to audit to risk. We’re trying to help individuals in controlling and governing AI rather than having AI on the loose.” This statement encapsulates the challenge many organizations face: ensuring that AI technologies are used responsibly and ethically.
The demand for AI training within organizations has shown encouraging growth, particularly in regions at the forefront of AI innovation such as Europe, the United States, and Asia. However, ISACA’s 2025 AI Pulse Poll, which surveyed over 3,000 digital trust professionals, found a troubling statistic: 32% of respondents indicated that their organizations do not provide any AI training for employees. This statistic underscores a significant gap in the knowledge and training necessary to effectively manage AI technologies.
In light of these findings, Dimitriadis stressed, “The message we’re trying to convey is that we need more AI training, specialized AI training across the domain, whether you’re an auditor, a cyber professional, a risk manager, project manager, or IT manager dealing with governance of AI technology. We need more AI training. It should be holistic and well-rounded, incorporating soft skills so that individuals can excel in their roles.” This calls for a comprehensive approach to AI education that goes beyond technical skills to include essential interpersonal skills.
ISACA’s research for 2026 suggests that AI is poised to dominate a majority of technical and orchestration tasks within organizations. As a result, professionals will shift their focus towards responsibilities that demand contextual understanding, intuition, and effective communication. Key areas of focus will include AI governance, configuration, monitoring, and crucial decision-making processes.
In addressing the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, ISACA’s State of Cybersecurity report emphasizes that the most critical security skills needed today include threat detection and response, as well as identity and access management. Additionally, the report highlights the importance of skills in vulnerability management, data security, and incident response, which will play an essential role in safeguarding organizations as they increasingly rely on AI technologies.
In summary, as organizations continue to embrace AI, the necessity for robust AI governance and training becomes ever more critical. ISACA’s forthcoming certifications and its ongoing educational initiatives aim to bridge the gap in AI expertise, ensuring that professionals are equipped to manage these technologies responsibly and securely.