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This study investigated the motivational factors that encourage employees to engage in obligatory internal E-learning courses, with a focus on incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and gamification elements to enhance their motivation and commitment. The study drew on Self-Determination Theory (SDT), which emphasizes three core needs for motivation: autonomy, competence, and relatedness. It argued that for motivation to occur, individuals must experience self-governance (autonomy), proficiency (competence), and a sense of belonging (relatedness) in their tasks. Using a qualitative methodology, data was collected through 11 semi-structured interviews with employees who had participated in internal E-courses. Thematic analysis indicate that employees have a strong need for skills development related to their client assignments and professional roles, but that lack of time is a central factor affecting when they undertake these E-courses. Additionally, several employees expressed a lack of community and belonging among the staff regarding these internal E-courses. This result indicates that the three psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness are not particularly well satisfied at present. To counteract this a conceptual solution was proposed that integrated gamification elements and AI-technology to improve employee motivation. The integration of AI in E-learning was posited as a means to tailor learning experiences more closely to individual needs, thereby potentially increasing motivation by providing personalized challenges and constructive feedback to enhance the employee’s skill development. Furthermore, it was proposed that an AI could be used as an examiner that users could engage in conversation with, in order to create a more interactive learning experience. Lastly it was proposed that the company should implement more group activities and use aspects of social media on their learning platform, to increase a sense of belonging amongst the employees. This conceptual solution is purely theoretical and necessitates empirical testing in future studies to substantiate and confirm the assumptions made.