Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how regulators work. From streamlining complaint investigations and analyzing data for policy decisions to assisting with other routine tasks, AI is becoming a core part of modern regulation. As these technologies become more integrated into daily operations, professionals in the regulatory and other sectors are realizing that understanding AI is not just an advantage, it’s essential.
Why AI matters for regulators
Regulatory work relies on information, whether collecting it, analyzing it, or using it to make fair, evidence-based decisions. AI supports all these functions. For example, machine learning models can help identify patterns in complaints, predict areas of risk, or process large volumes of registration data quickly.
But the true value of AI isn’t only in efficiency, it’s in better decision-making. Regulators who understand how AI tools work are better equipped to question data sources, interpret results, and ensure that outcomes remain ethical and transparent. AI doesn’t replace professional judgment, it informs it.
The new skillset for regulatory professionals
AI competency doesn’t mean everyone needs to become a data scientist. It means understanding how AI systems influence the work you do and knowing enough to ask the right questions.
Here are a few examples of how AI literacy applies to regulatory roles:
- Investigators may use AI-assisted tools to review large sets of evidence, identifying relevant documents faster. Knowing how the algorithm prioritizes data helps ensure fairness.
- Policy analysts increasingly rely on predictive analytics to inform future planning. Understanding model assumptions and limitations is key to making responsible recommendations.
- Communications and engagement staff use AI-driven insights to understand stakeholder behaviour and craft more targeted, inclusive outreach.
- Leaders and executives must be able to evaluate vendors, understand data governance requirements, and ensure accountability when adopting new technologies.
In other words, AI competency is now a cross-functional skill, one that enhances professional judgment and supports public protection.
Building your AI competency
The good news is that becoming AI-competent doesn’t require a technical degree. It starts with curiosity and professional development. Here are some practical ways to begin:
- Learn the basics: Read articles, take short courses or webinars on AI fundamentals for non-technical professionals. Many regulators and associations now offer these as part of continuing competence programs.
- Stay informed: Follow trusted sources that discuss technology and regulation such as The Registrar Magazine, RegulatoryJobs.org and the Registrar Forum.
- Ask questions: When your organization adopts new tools, find out how data is collected, what assumptions are built into the system, and who is accountable for its outputs.
- Collaborate across disciplines: Work with IT, data, and policy teams to understand how technology intersects with regulation. The best insights often come from cross-functional learning.
- Attend the AI in Regulation Conference: MDR’s AI in Regulation Conference 2026: From AI Awareness to Action is designed to help regulators act with confidence. Attendees will gain current insights into the AI landscape, practical frameworks for governance and oversight, and real-world case studies from regulators already using AI, as well as opportunities to connect with peers across Canada and internationally.
The future of regulatory careers
AI is changing the expectations for regulatory professionals at every level. Future job descriptions will likely include language about “AI literacy,” “data-driven decision-making,” and “digital competency.” This doesn’t mean regulators will lose the human touch, quite the opposite.
As routine processes become automated, the human skills that define good regulation: ethics, empathy, judgment, and critical thinking will become even more valuable. AI will take care of repetitive work, freeing professionals to focus on what matters most: protecting the public, ensuring fairness and supporting high professional standards.
If you’re building a career in regulation, now is the time to strengthen your understanding of AI the challenges and opportunities it brings to the sector. Register now for AI in Regulation Conference 2026: From AI Awareness to Action to connect with regulatory professionals and gain deeper insights into AI’s impact on the sector.