Less than a quarter of top executives truly understand how artificial intelligence will drive value for their companies. That startling statistic signals a serious blind spot in corporate leadership.
Only 24% of business leaders admit they know how AI's value will come about, according to a Forbes analysis by Joe McKendrick published on May 26, 2026. This gap between AI hype and actionable knowledge threatens strategic decision-making as competitors race to deploy generative AI, machine learning, and automation.
The article, titled "Hey, C-Suite: Time To Get Your Hands Dirty With AI," argues that executives have remained too hands-off despite relentless AI buzz. The disconnect persists even as AI spending skyrockets and every industry feels the pressure to transform. The problem isn't lack of investment—it's lack of engaged leadership.
McKendrick's piece draws on a survey that captures a raw truth: 76% of C-suite leaders cannot articulate how AI will create measurable returns. This ignorance leads to misaligned investments, missed opportunities, and heightened security risks. Named people and organizations: Joe McKendrick (Forbes contributor), business leaders surveyed. Exact figures: 24% and 76%. Date: May 26, 2026.
The broader implication is that AI success hinges on more than technology; it requires strategic oversight from the top. When executives lack hands-on understanding, they can't ask the right questions, vet vendors effectively, or align AI projects with core business goals. Experts note that AI is not a plug-and-play tool—it demands rethinking business models, data governance, and workforce training. C-suite AI involvement has become a competitive differentiator.
The message is clear: executives must roll up their sleeves and get operational. This includes participating in AI workshops, reviewing model outputs, and collaborating directly with data science teams. Companies that bridge this knowledge gap will lead the next wave of productivity and innovation. Milestones to watch include more C-suite AI education programs, increased board pressure, and the emergence of measurable ROI benchmarks. Business leaders who ignore the call risk being left behind.
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Hey, C-Suite: Time To Get Your Hands Dirty With AI
Only 24% of business leaders admit they know how AI's value will come about. But they need to get much more involved.
Joe McKendrick, Senior Contributor
Forbes
2 min read
7/10
Key Takeaways
- Only 24% of business leaders admit they know how AI will deliver value, according to a 2026 Forbes survey analyzed by Joe McKendrick.
- 76% of C-suite executives lack a clear understanding of AI's value proposition, risking misaligned investments and strategic blind spots.
- The article calls for hands-on executive engagement with AI, from workshops to direct collaboration with data science teams.
- McKendrick's analysis suggests that AI success requires not just technology but active leadership participation in model validation and strategy.
- Competitors who close the C-suite knowledge gap are expected to gain significant market advantages in productivity and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Executives need hands-on AI involvement to understand how the technology creates value, ask the right questions, and align AI projects with business goals. Without this, companies risk misaligned investments and missed opportunities.
Only 24% of business leaders admit they know how AI's value will come about, according to a 2026 Forbes article by Joe McKendrick. This means 76% lack a clear understanding.
Executives can learn by participating in AI workshops, reviewing model outputs, collaborating with data science teams, and engaging in hands-on experiments with AI tools. Continuous education and cross-functional dialogue are key.
Ignoring AI involvement leads to misaligned investments, slower innovation, security risks, and a competitive disadvantage as rivals leverage AI effectively. The gap between AI hype and actionable knowledge can threaten strategic decision-making.
AI value materializes through improved productivity, cost reduction, enhanced customer experiences, new revenue streams, and data-driven insights. Realizing this value requires executive engagement to set strategy and measure ROI.
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www.forbes.com
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