In June 2025, Walmart announced the pilot of an AI-powered Interview Coach and the expansion of its Associate-to-Technician (A2T) Program. The initiatives reflect the retailer’s focus on workforce development in retail and efforts to address demand for skilled retail jobs in its operations.
AI Interview Coach to Support Hiring Process
The AI Interview Coach simulates realistic interview scenarios for Walmart associates, providing up to 10 questions with real-time feedback on structure, clarity and delivery. Initially limited to internal candidates, the tool may later expand to all applicants if the pilot is successful.
According to Chain Store Age, Walmart describes the technology as a way to improve interview preparation, reduce barriers to career advancement and support employee retention in an increasingly competitive retail labor market.
Associate-to-Technician Program Expansion
Walmart is also broadening its A2T training program, which offers frontline employees a pathway into higher-paying technician roles in facilities maintenance and refrigeration. Originally launched in 2018, the program will add training hubs in Vincennes, Indiana and Jacksonville, Florida, expanding beyond its Dallas/Fort Worth base.
Walmart aims to train 4,000 retail technicians by 2030, supporting critical technical workforce needs for its omnichannel retail operations, according to Talk Business & Politics.
Retail Labor Market Context
These investments come as the U.S. retail industry faces labor market challenges. According to New York Post, retail layoffs rose 274% in the first five months of 2025, totaling nearly 76,000 cuts, driven by store closures and online retail competition.
Despite this volatility, the sector remains a major employer with approximately 55 million U.S. retail jobs, according to Bizplanr, showing the need for sustained retail workforce development to maintain operational resilience.
Broader Industry Trends
Walmart’s approach follows a broader trend toward AI in retail and technology-driven hiring solutions. An Amazon press release has also pledged significant investment in technical training programs. According to Bizplanr, the global retail AI market is projected to reach $45.74 billion by 2032, highlighting the sector’s ongoing integration of AI hiring tools and employee training technology to improve efficiency and engagement.
