This presentation explores how artificial intelligence is transforming education, work, and the skills students need for the future – and how TAFEs can respond practically. Drawing on global research from the Digital Education Council (DEC), it highlights key trends such as uneven AI adoption in the workplace, shifting job roles, and the widening gap between industry needs and current education systems. The presentation introduces practical tools — including the DEC AI Governance Framework, DEC’s AI Readiness Framework, and DEC’s report on AI in assessment — to help institutions respond strategically. As VET and higher education are fundamentally disrupted, the session offers a roadmap for rethinking how we can meet these urgent opportunities and challenges.