On May 19th, 2026, a significant discussion on integrating artificial intelligence into the workforce took place, featuring executives from major corporations such as Panasonic, New York Life, Kyndryl, and Citizens Financial Group. Moderated by Bloomberg's Seth Fiegerman, the event focused on strategies to upskill employees to optimize the capabilities of agentic AI technologies.
Upskilling in a New Era
Liz Almeida, Chief Human Resources Officer at Panasonic Corporation of North America, emphasized the need to prepare the workforce for a future where AI is integral. She noted that training programs must evolve to equip employees with the skills necessary to work alongside AI agents, enhancing productivity and innovation.
Kathleen Navarro, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer at New York Life, supported this view by highlighting the importance of diversity in tech roles. Navarro stated that a diverse workforce can lead to more creative solutions when humans collaborate with AI systems, making inclusive training initiatives essential.
The Role of Technology Service Providers
Jamie Rutledge, President of Kyndryl U.S., explained that technology service providers play a crucial role in facilitating this transition. By offering support in AI infrastructure, Kyndryl aims to help businesses integrate AI solutions smoothly while ensuring their teams are skilled in using these technologies effectively. Rutledge pointed out that the true potential of AI can only be realized when the human workforce is adequately prepared.
Michael Ruttledge, Chief Information Officer at Citizens Financial Group, concluded the discussion by addressing the challenges associated with AI adoption. He stressed that while AI can streamline operations and enhance service delivery, it also requires a shift in workplace culture and employee engagement. Ruttledge advocated for continuous learning and adaptability as key components in successfully merging AI with human efforts.
Implications for the Future
The insights shared at this event highlight a growing recognition that the future workforce will depend on the collaborative efforts of humans and AI. As organizations begin to implement these strategies, the focus on upskilling will likely accelerate, driven by the need to remain competitive in an increasingly automated environment. The dialogue initiated by these industry leaders serves as a critical reminder of the importance of preparing for a future where human and AI capabilities are intertwined, ensuring that businesses not only survive but thrive in this new era.
