How GCCs Are Creating Internal Academies for Emerging Tech Talent

GCCs have evolved from cost-saving hubs to digital transformation leaders by setting up academies within their overall operational model focused on emerging technologies like AI, data science, and cybersecurity. These academies address skill gaps and align employee development training with business needs.

A 5-year landscape report of GCCs in India indicate that over 185 GCCs in the country are creating AI/Machine Learning Centers of Excellence. These centers enhance capabilities in areas like customer experience and risk management while ensuring employee upskilling and reskilling to stay competitive and innovative.

The Rise of “Guild-Style” Academies in GCCs

Guild-style academies in GCCs are gaining traction as organisations build community-driven spaces for niche tech skill development. These academies enable employees to collaborate, grow together, and foster continuous learning and innovation while also providing clear visibility into skill progression and the effectiveness of training initiatives. 

Why GCCs Adopt Internal Training Programs for Niche Tech

GCCs are implementing internal employee development training programs for emerging technologies like AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity to address the talent gap. These programs enable GCCs to skill up their workforce, ensuring that employees are equipped for rapid technological changes and improving talent retention. 

Case Study: 71% Lower Turnover with Education-Driven Upskilling 

Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH) partnered with Guild Education to address the nursing and allied health talent shortage, worsened by COVID-19. By removing upfront tuition costs and offering clear career paths, BSMH enhanced employee engagement and retention. This strategy led to a 71% reduction in turnover, proving the effectiveness of education-driven upskilling in retaining talent.

Designing Employee Development Plans for Emerging Tech 

As GCCs face the challenge of keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies like AI and cybersecurity, they must focus on preparing their talent for the future.

Targeted employee training programs can help improve both retention and innovation for GCCs while equipping them to tackle new challenges. These programs are essential for: 

• Keeping up with technological advancements 

• Ensuring necessary skills for success 

• Boosting talent retention 

• Driving innovation 

AI-Powered Workforce Analysis to Identify Upskilling Needs

Smarter talent decisions rely on better data, and AI-powered workforce analysis can make all the difference. By using AI, businesses can identify key upskilling areas for each role, ensuring employees stay ahead of evolving industry needs. This data-driven approach allows companies to align employee development plans with their growth objectives.

Trackable, credentialed skills reporting also gives businesses clear visibility into their internal talent pipelines. By measuring upskilling initiatives through ROI analysis and learner progression, companies can monitor skill development and identify gaps, ensuring continuous improvements and a solid return on investment.

Modular Frameworks for Blockchain and Quantum Computing Training

As the demand for blockchain and quantum computing skills grows, GCCs face the challenge of upskilling their workforce. However, with limited resources and time, providing effective training can be difficult.

By adopting modular training frameworks, GCCs can help employees build expertise step by step without feeling overwhelmed. This approach helps GCCs ensure their workforce remains up-to-date in a fast-evolving tech landscape.

Case Examples: GCCs as Talent Incubators 

GCCs are becoming essential in developing specialised talent. For instance, a global bank launched an AI training program within its GCC, upskilling its workforce to meet rising AI demands. By focusing on targeted talent development, GCCs can fill skill gaps and boost employee engagement, positioning themselves as leaders in emerging technologies. 

India’s GCCs Leading Peer-to-Peer Learning in AI and Cybersecurity 

India’s Global Capability Centers are becoming key drivers of skill development, particularly in AI and cybersecurity. However, many companies struggle to build internal capabilities quickly enough to meet demand. By creating collaborative learning environments and leveraging knowledge-sharing platforms, GCCs are helping employees upskill in real time. By focusing on continuous talent innovation, GCCs are ensuring their workforce stays competitive in emerging technologies.

Google Quantum AI’s Open-Source Tools for Workforce Development 

Google’s Quantum AI is playing a crucial role in shaping the future workforce. By offering open-source tools like Cirq, developers can design, simulate, and execute quantum circuits. However, many companies face challenges in equipping their teams with the necessary quantum computing skills. By providing accessible resources, Google is helping professionals build expertise in quantum AI, creating a talent pool ready to tackle challenges in industries such as cryptography, material science, and optimisation.

Measuring Success in Employee Development Programs

To evaluate the efficacy of employee development programs, GCCs should track key metrics, including retention rates, skill progression, and productivity levels. Regular feedback and performance evaluations help identify areas for improvement, allowing GCCs to refine programs to better align with both business goals and employee growth. 

Trackable Skill Attainment and ROI in Training Programs

Tracking skill development is crucial for assessing training effectiveness and aligning with business goals. Without clear metrics, it’s difficult to measure the impact of employee growth investments.

By monitoring progress, organisations can: 

1. Identify areas for improvement
2. Adjust training to meet business objectives
3. Ensure measurable outcomes

In addition, tracking skill attainment enhances employee engagement and retention. When employees see their growth is being recognised, they feel valued, leading to increased morale, reduced turnover, and a more skilled and committed workforce. 

Aligning Employee Development Goals with Business Growth

Linking employee development goals to business growth fosters innovation and ensures lasting success. When employees understand how their progress aligns with company goals, they feel more motivated, engaged, and productive, driving the achievement of key objectives.

Furthermore, prioritising employee development strengthens retention. Clear paths for growth encourage employees to stay, reducing turnover and keeping valuable expertise within the organisation.

GCCs are revolutionising how companies develop tech talent by focusing on future-ready skills through internal academies. These academies bridge gaps in areas like AI, data analytics, and cybersecurity while also driving internal innovation.

For example, Lowe’s partnership with ANSR to establish a GCC in India helped scale both technical and non-technical teams to support digital growth. By building internal talent pipelines, mid-market companies gain a competitive edge, tapping into a global talent pool and upskilling teams to thrive in the digital age.