Walmart to offer AI-based employee training
U.S. frontline and office-based associates at Walmart will have a new artificial intelligence-based training option in the near future.
Beginning in 2026, eligible Walmart employees in the U.S. will have access to cutting-edge AI training through a collaboration with OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. The discounter is launching a new OpenAI certifications program through Walmart Academy, which trains store employees and managers.
Walmart announced the upcoming training in a note to U.S. employees from chief people officer Donna Morris.
“Today’s announcement is more than a training program – it’s our promise to you," Morris said in the note. "Walmart remains invested in your success, today and tomorrow."
In July 2025, Bloomberg reported that Walmart is eliminating some coach and coordinator roles at Walmart Academy. It is unclear how or if this new program would affect any potential layoffs there.
Walmart builds on AI training resources
While this certification will launch in 2026, Walmart employees currently have access to training opportunities, including AI training, through an initiative called Live Better U.
Launched in 2018 in partnership with education benefits management company Guild and steadily expanded in the years since, Live Better U is designed to provide the 1.5 million Walmart and Sam’s Club associates in the U.S. free access to educational and career-building resources, such as 100% payment of college tuition and books starting on the first day of full-time or part-time employment.
Walmart is also using AI to help applicants prepare for job interviews and paying for associates to move into technician roles. The discount giant’s new AI Interview Coach tool simulates a realistic Walmart interview.
Walmart is currently piloting the tool with associates; if it performs as expected, the retailer will offer it to every applicant, both internal and external. The company also recently unveiled a skills translator tool that lets veterans upload their resumes, which are then translated into professional skills that align with its needs.
[READ MORE: New Walmart digital tools help veterans apply]
In addition, a new interactive job simulations solution gives veterans the ability to virtually try out their skills in real-life scenarios and see what it’s like working in a corporate environment.
Headquartered in Bentonville, Ark., Walmart Inc. operates more than 10,500 stores and numerous e-commerce websites in 19 countries.
