Walmart will provide free artificial intelligence training to its U.S. employees starting in 2026 through a new partnership with OpenAI.
The retailer said it will offer a customized version of OpenAI’s new certification program to both frontline and office workers through Walmart Academy, which the company describes as the world’s largest private training program with more than 3.5 million participants.
Training aims to prepare workers for digital future
The AI training will help employees develop skills for work and personal use “in an increasingly digital world,” according to Chief People Officer Donna Morris, who shared the announcement with U.S.-based associates.
Morris said the program builds on Walmart’s nearly $1 billion commitment to skills training through 2026. The company said it designed the training to prepare workers across supply chain, retail stores and technology roles for future jobs.
Current training options available now
While the OpenAI certification launches in 2026, Walmart employees can access existing AI training through the company’s Live Better U education benefit, Morris said. The retailer also directs workers to ai.walmart.com for information about AI applications at work.
Walmart Academy has trained millions of participants since its launch, according to the company. The program focuses on developing leadership and technical skills across the retailer’s operations.
Company frames initiative as workforce investment
Morris characterized the AI training as part of Walmart’s people-focused approach. “Being people-led means investing in you,” she told associates in the announcement.
The retailer said the partnership with OpenAI, maker of ChatGPT, represents its commitment to employee development and preparation for technological changes in retail.
