OpenAI introduces jobs platform and certifications program with Walmart, BCG, and Accenture
In a LinkedIn post, OpenAI Global Affairs says it is launching the OpenAI Jobs Platform and OpenAI Certifications initiatives to address the growing demand for AI skills in the workforce.
The programs are supported by employers including Walmart, John Deere, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), Accenture, and Indeed, as well as organizations such as the Texas Association of Business, Bay Area Council, and the State of Delaware.
OpenAI, known for developing ChatGPT and other AI tools, frames the initiatives as part of a strategy to connect workers with companies that need AI-ready talent. The company says it plans to certify 10 million Americans by 2030 through its expanded training programs.
Jobs platform
The Jobs Platform is designed to connect employers with AI-trained candidates. It will provide opportunities across large corporations, local businesses, and government organizations.
According to OpenAI, the platform will use AI to match workers’ skills with company needs. It will also include a track for local businesses and municipalities seeking AI expertise. The Texas Association of Business is planning to use the platform to link thousands of employers in the state with candidates able to help modernize operations.
Hisayuki Idekoba, CEO of Indeed, comments: “Indeed’s mission is to help people get jobs. Working with OpenAI on the Jobs Platform represents an innovative step forward in fulfilling that mission. By combining Indeed’s expertise in job matching with OpenAI’s advanced technology, we’re harnessing the power of AI to connect more people with meaningful opportunities and help employers discover the talent they need.”
Certifications initiative
OpenAI also announces a new certifications program that will expand the reach of the existing OpenAI Academy. The company says it will offer certifications for different levels of AI fluency, from workplace basics to specialized skills such as prompt engineering.
Workers will be able to prepare for certification using ChatGPT’s Study mode, and companies will be able to integrate the program into their learning and development strategies.
John Walsh, Accenture Americas CEO, says: “At Accenture, we’re deeply committed to preparing workers for an AI world by equipping them with the skills needed to be successful today and in the future—not only for ourselves, but also for our clients. Through our collaboration with OpenAI, we’ll be able to offer OpenAI certifications to our people as part of our AI training curriculum, as well as explore AI talent through the Work Marketplace.”
Employer commitments
Walmart, the world’s largest private employer, is participating in the initiative. John Furner, CEO of Walmart U.S., says: “At Walmart, we know the future of retail won’t be defined by technology alone—it will be defined by people who know how to use it. By bringing AI training directly to our associates, we’re putting the most powerful technology of our time in their hands—giving them the skills to rewrite the playbook and shape the future of retail.”
Boston Consulting Group is also working with OpenAI on the certifications program. Alicia Pittman, Global People Chair at BCG, says: “Building world-class capabilities has always been central to BCG’s purpose—both for our clients and for BCGers—and that means embracing Generative AI as a transformative force in close collaboration with our tech partners.”
Government involvement
State governments are also represented in the initiative. Delaware Governor Matt Meyer says: “AI is already changing how we live and work, and it’s critical that we provide Delaware’s workforce with the tools to lead the way in tomorrow’s economy. As a former teacher, I know how important it is to give our students every advantage. As Governor, I know our economy depends on workers being ready for the jobs of the future, no matter their zip code.”
Applications CEO highlights jobs and skills focus
Alongside the LinkedIn announcement, OpenAI published a blog post from Fidji Simo, CEO of Applications, which expands on the goals of the initiative.
Simo writes: “Whenever I talk with people about AI, one of the first questions I get is: ‘What’s it going to mean for my job?’ or ‘How will it impact my company?’ I tell them I believe AI will unlock more opportunities for more people than any technology in history. It will help companies operate more efficiently, give anyone the power to turn their ideas into income, and create jobs that don’t even exist today.”
She also notes the disruptive impact AI will have: “Jobs will look different, companies will have to adapt, and all of us—from shift workers to CEOs—will have to learn how to work in new ways.”
Simo adds that the Jobs Platform and Certifications initiative are part of a broader effort to widen access to AI training: “If we want to put more power into the hands of more people, not just a fortunate few, we need to help everyone, at every level, take advantage of the opportunities that come with AI.”
Expanding economic opportunity
OpenAI says the Jobs Platform and Certifications initiative build on the company’s mission to broaden access to AI. The company notes that hundreds of millions of people use ChatGPT every week, most for free, but emphasizes the importance of equipping people with skills to apply AI productively in the workplace.
OpenAI Global Affairs writes in its post: “Students and workers need AI skills, and employers need AI-ready talent. That’s why we're launching the OpenAI Jobs Platform + OpenAI Certifications initiatives with Walmart, John Deere, BCG, Accenture, Indeed, Texas Association of Business, Bay Area Council & State of Delaware.”
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