AI adoption in 2025 faces critical challenges beyond just technology. Rupert Menezes, Field CTO at VAST, highlights skills gaps, data accessibility, and cost as major obstacles, while Carmelo McCutcheon, Public Sector CTO at VAST Federal, underscores the importance of compliance and security. Together, their insights frame the essential strategies for overcoming barriers and achieving success in the evolving AI landscape.
Skills Gaps, Data Access, and Cost Will Present Significant Barriers to AI Adoption
“The biggest bottlenecks to AI adoption in 2025 will no longer just be the availability of chips or supercomputer power, but roadblocks related to skills, data access, and costs. Unlike traditional systems, AI requires expertise in Infra, DevOps, Data Engineering, and Compliance, typically operating independently from one another. Many organizations have lost key resources while moving to the cloud, making this skills gap even more difficult to bridge. In tandem, 99% of data that could power AI remains locked behind firewalls, creating further barriers for businesses looking to derive its potential. Increased costs pose another challenge to progress. While token prices have dropped 100X + from two years ago, the expense of implementing larger models remains a significant hurdle. Success in AI adoption lies within a company's ability to unify these skills, harness the value of their data sets, and implement cost-conscious strategies for scaling their AI initiatives.” - Rupert Menezes, Field CTO at VAST Data
Compliance and Security Will Define AI Success
“As the AI landscape continues to evolve in 2025, one thing will be clear - compliance and security measures are non-negotiable. With the rise of global regulations like the EU AI Act, businesses will face immense pressure to ensure their AI systems are transparent, accountable, and aligned with stringent privacy standards. As data becomes an even more valuable asset, protecting it from potential threats will be a top priority. Organizations will need to implement stronger security measures that safeguard data both at rest and in transit, while also meeting regulatory requirements. The balance between compliance and security will be crucial for organizations to maintain trust and protect valuable assets.” - Carmelo McCutcheon, Public Sector Chief Technology Officer at VAST Data Federal