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Walmart's AI Training Programs Increase Associate Confidence in Technology
Key points
- Walmart surveyed 1.7M+ associates on AI sentiment.
- 77% of office staff are excited about AI.
- 84% of frontline staff are confident with digital tools.
- AI training increased associate confidence by 27%.
Walmart Surveys AI Sentiment Among Associates
Walmart, the world's largest private employer, conducted a survey in June to assess its 2.1 million associates' feelings about artificial intelligence in the workplace. This was the first time the company directly asked its diverse workforce about their experiences with AI, gathering over 1.7 million responses.
Increased Confidence Through Training
The survey results indicated that while familiarity with AI varied, training and direct experience with the technology positively impacted associate confidence. Maren Waggoner, Walmart's Chief People Officer for Associate Experience and Digital, reported that 77% of office-based associates expressed excitement about AI's potential to improve their work. For U.S. frontline associates, 84% reported confidence in using digital tools, many of which are AI-powered.
Partnerships for AI Certification
Over the past 13 months, Walmart partnered with Google and OpenAI to offer free AI learning and certification programs to its associates. Waggoner stated that associates who completed the OpenAI training reported a 27% increase in their confidence using AI. This training provides associates with certificates and tools for daily use.
Bucking National Trends
Walmart's internal data suggests its associates are more comfortable and excited about AI compared to broader national trends. A Pew Research Center poll from August 2026 indicated that approximately 52% of U.S. adults are more concerned than excited about AI. Walmart attributes its associates' higher comfort levels to providing tools and training.
Consistent Approach to Transformation
Despite AI representing a significant technological shift in Walmart's 64-year history, Waggoner noted that the company's approach to transformation remains consistent. Walmart's mission statement emphasizes being a "people-led, tech-powered omni-channel retailer" focused on saving money, indicating a long-standing integration of technology with its workforce.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
Walmart surveyed its 2.1 million associates and found that training and experience with AI significantly increased their confidence in using the technology. This initiative aims to understand employee sentiment towards AI and integrate it into daily operations across its diverse workforce.