Walmart tests AI interview program, expands technician training

Walmart is testing a new AI (artificial intelligence) interview coach that can help employees prepare for interviews for new positions or career advancements. The retailer did not disclose the program cost.

“This is going to be a game-changer for our associates. … This AI interview coach will actually engage with our associates and practice the interview process, and will help them ace the interview, but more so show their best selves as they showcase their skills and capabilities,” said Lorraine Stomski, chief talent officer at Walmart.

Stomski said the AI coach simulates a realistic Walmart interview by walking the candidate through up to 10 questions, scoring each response on a 1-10 scale and delivering instant pointers on structure, clarity, and confidence. The technology was developed internally by Walmart in partnership with a technology vendor and was customized specifically for Walmart.

“This will give talented candidates a better chance of landing jobs they’re qualified for but might miss out on due to interviewing poorly. We’re currently piloting the tool with our associates; if it performs as expected, it will be offered to every applicant, internal and external,” Stomski said.

She said Walmart understands some of the best careers start from the ground up. The retailer boasts that 75% of its salaried U.S. store, club and supply chain managers began as hourly employees.

Walmart also launched a skills-first navigator tool that helps military veterans and new job applicants match their skills with open opportunities at Walmart, Stomski said.

Walmart also is expanding its “associate to technician” training program that launched a year ago. R.J. Zanes, vice president of Walmart facilities, said in the November test that 108 employees completed the training and have landed higher paying technology jobs within Walmart. He said Walmart is adding two training facilities in Vincennes, Ind., and Jacksonville, Fla., in addition to the location in Dallas-Fort Worth.

“We have a goal to train 4,000 technicians by 2030 with this expanded capacity,” Zanes said.

The training involves a six-month paid test program that combines 70% hands-on training and 30% classroom learning covering subjects like safety, electrical fundamentals, HVAC, refrigeration and troubleshooting.

He said every graduate in the program has secured a technician job, earning an average of $32 per hour up to $45 per hour. There is no degree required, and employees interested in the training must get manager approval and be able to relocate to one of the training centers for the six weeks. Zanes said employees continue to earn a paycheck while training.

“From day one, participants take on increasing responsibility and master skills that translate into better-paying roles and greater impact,” he said.

Zanes trained as an electrician through an apprenticeship program, becoming a journeyman electrician. He worked and put himself through college and advanced to administration with a master’s degree a few years later. Now he oversees the maintenance programs at Walmart.

“We have an aging infrastructure that is only going to require more maintenance and 30% of the trades workforce is nearing retirement age. We are facing growing demand and diminishing supply which creates a ton of opportunity in the space for people of all walks of life,” Zanes said.