44 per cent of Quebec young professionals use AI without telling their boss: survey

Many young professionals use AI at work without telling their bosses, according to a new Leger survey out of Quebec. (Pexels)

Companies are slow to provide clear guidelines to their employees on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and young workers don’t wait for the green light from their boss before using it, often in secret, according to a new Léger survey.

According to the survey commissioned by the commissioned by the Regroupement des jeunes chambres de commerce du Québec (RJCCQ) and released on Tuesday, two-thirds (66 per cent) of the 800 Quebec professionals under the age of 35 surveyed believe that AI oversight in their organization is non-existent or, at best, informal.

Just under half, or 44 per cent, admit to having used AI without informing their employers, colleagues or clients.

These results “raise several issues,” warns RJCCQ CEO Pierre Graff in an interview.

“Obviously, we’re thinking about data security risks,” he said. “We must also consider that there may be issues of quality or responsibility, particularly related to hallucinations that users of artificial intelligence may not have noticed.”

Companies that use AI must also ensure that they comply with Bill 25 on the protection of personal information. Certain elements directly affect AI.

Graff points out that there are disclosure obligations when a decision has been made primarily using AI.

“There could therefore be consequences if this legal framework is not respected,” he said.

A useful tool

The RJCCQ CEO is far from opposed to AI, which can lead to productivity gains. However, companies should take the bull by the horns and regulate its use.

“Leaving a grey area benefits no one,” he said. “Companies should clearly state that they are open to the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence.”

Establishing an internal policy would not be that complex, he believes. “There are some available elsewhere that can be easily replicated.”

By leaving young people to their own devices, new employees may give a false impression of autonomy by relying on AI, warns Graff. However, this crutch would hinder the development of their skills.

Contrary to stereotypes of new recruits exasperated by the technological backwardness of their older colleagues, nearly 40 per cent of respondents sometimes feel overwhelmed by the speed at which their field is evolving.

“The workforce needs and what is expected of these people are changing dramatically,” Graff pointed out. “There is a real desire among young professionals to receive training and develop their skills, particularly in artificial intelligence.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French on Feb. 24, 2026.