OpenAI, Walmart Launch AI Certification To Train 10 Million Workers By 2030

OpenAI and Walmart have partnered to train and certify 10 million American workers in artificial intelligence skills by 2030 through an expansion of OpenAI Academy and Walmart Academy. The certification program offers multiple skill levels, from basic AI applications in everyday tasks to advanced roles like prompt engineering, and aims to equip Walmart's 3.5 million associates with hands-on AI training in retail, supply chain, logistics, and office environments. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman described the latest GPT-5 model as a significant upgrade, likening it to "a team of Ph.D.-level experts in your pocket," and sees it as a major step toward artificial general intelligence. Walmart CEO John Furner emphasized that the future of retail will be shaped by people skilled in using technology, not just the technology itself. The initiative also includes plans to launch a job platform connecting AI-certified workers with employers by the second half of 2026. This effort responds to a growing demand for AI skills in the workforce, as studies show AI-proficient workers tend to be more productive, valuable, and better paid.