PwC plans to certify workers in critical thinking as AI changes their jobs
PwC plans to certify about 85,000 workers in critical thinking and judgment as AI reshapes their work.
PwC is rolling out a certification program to help employees in the US and Mexico enhance their critical thinking and judgment skills as artificial intelligence assumes more responsibilities in the workplace. The initiative will impact over 85,000 workers across the firm's offices in the US and Mexico, as well as its Acceleration Centers, which support client operations and business functions.
The program will commence in December, with participants first undergoing a thinking-style diagnostic to identify their natural strengths and areas for improvement. Following this assessment, employees will participate in simulations designed to test their judgment and critical-thinking abilities.
A personalized AI coach will offer support during the training process, assisting employees with tasks such as rehearsing challenging conversations or preparing for client meetings. As AI continues to assume more foundational tasks, such as research, writing, and analysis, critical thinking and judgment become increasingly valuable.
PwC has identified 15 AI skills and 15 human skills, including empathy and adaptability, that the company believes will distinguish employees in the future. The certification program focuses on critical thinking and judgment, which are deemed essential for navigating an environment where AI handles more work.
The six-month program will kick off with an assessment to determine an individual's thinking style, followed by classes to refine their skills and realistic simulations to apply their newly acquired knowledge to real-world scenarios. A personalized AI coach will assist employees in transferring this knowledge to their daily tasks.
Seals-Coffield, PwC's chief people and inclusion officer, emphasizes that critical thinking and judgment will complement PwC's other initiatives, such as responsible AI use and professional skepticism. The content of the program will be tailored to employees' seniority levels.
The certification is not a traditional pass/fail exam but rather a way to develop repeatable skills, which will be evaluated throughout employees' careers. The program will roll out in stages, allowing employees ample time to apply the lessons in their day-to-day work before leadership assesses their proficiency as part of the company's performance review process.
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