OpenAI and Walmart Partner to Certify 10 Million Americans in Generative AI by 2030

OpenAI plans to certify 10 million Americans in generative AI by 2030, partnering with Walmart to train workers. The company will launch a certification program and jobs platform, aiming to meet growing employer demand for AI skills. The program will begin in late 2025 or early 2026, reflecting the growing integration of AI tools across industries.

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, has announced a significant initiative to certify 10 million Americans in generative artificial intelligence (AI) by 2030. This ambitious plan, unveiled in partnership with Walmart, includes a new certification program and a jobs platform designed to meet the growing demand for AI skills across industries.

The certification program, which will launch in late 2025 or early 2026, will offer free access to tailored AI certifications through Walmart Academy, the largest private training program in the world with over 3.5 million participants [1]. This initiative is part of Walmart's broader commitment to investing in its associates, aiming to prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow.

OpenAI, in collaboration with Walmart, will also develop a jobs platform to connect AI-skilled workers with employers. This platform is expected to launch in the second half of 2026 and will use AI to match candidates with companies based on their skills and needs. The company aims to certify 10 million Americans by 2030, reflecting the increasing integration of AI tools across various sectors [2].

The announcement comes amidst a growing demand for AI skills, as highlighted by a Microsoft survey that found 71% of business leaders prefer less-experienced candidates with AI skills over more-experienced workers without them [2]. This trend underscores the need for comprehensive training programs and platforms to bridge the skills gap.

OpenAI's initiative also follows its $10 billion partnership with Broadcom Inc. for the production of custom AI chips, which aims to reduce its reliance on Nvidia Corp. and double its compute capacity over the next five months [2]. This strategic move signals OpenAI's commitment to advancing AI technology and its role in shaping the future of work.

The certification program and jobs platform are part of OpenAI's broader strategy to empower workers and help them adapt to a rapidly changing technological landscape. By providing free access to AI certifications and connecting workers with employers, OpenAI and Walmart aim to create a more inclusive and skilled workforce.

References:
[1] https://corporate.walmart.com/news/2025/09/04/donna-morris-to-associates-being-people-led-means-investing-in-you
[2] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-09-04/openai-unveils-jobs-platform-certification-program-for-ai-roles