UC Irvine and Konnect Join Forces to Launch Executive Program on AI in HR
The Leadership Development Institute at UC Irvine’s Paul Merage School of Business has teamed up with Konnect, a leader in human resources innovation, to introduce a new executive certification program named “The Future of HR: AI Strategy & Leadership.” This program aims to equip senior HR leaders with the skills needed to steer their organizations through the changes brought by artificial intelligence.
AI is transforming every aspect of the employee journey, from hiring and performance assessments to organizational structure and daily employee interactions. This new program targets Chief Human Resource Officers (CHROs) and senior HR executives who are tasked with leading these changes. Participants will learn how to effectively use AI to add real value to their businesses, all while maintaining a human touch in the workplace.
Dean Ian O. Williamson emphasizes that this program reflects the school’s vision for the future of work. “The combination of AI and human resources is a significant challenge for leaders today,” he stated. “The future requires leaders who can not only adopt AI but also design it in ways that enhance their organizations and support their staff.”
Co-developed by faculty from the Merage School and HR experts from Konnect, the program mixes academic theories with practical HR applications. Participants can expect to gain:
- AI-driven HR strategies that deliver concrete business results
- Frameworks for transforming the workforce and making data-informed decisions
- Hands-on simulations that focus on AI implementation and organizational change
- Practical insights that can be immediately applied in their workplaces
Noah Askin, an associate professor of organization and management, is overseeing the academic direction of the program. “We’re not just informing HR leaders about AI; we’re helping them gain the necessary skills to lead change from within,” Askin commented. He believes that the blend of solid academic principles with real-world expertise sets this program apart.
For Konnect, this partnership aligns with their vision of the future of HR leadership. Jamie Viramontes, Konnect’s CEO, noted, “UC Irvine’s innovative approach and forward-thinking strategies make it the perfect partner to help redefine HR leadership. Together, we are empowering HR leaders with the confidence and skills needed to lead AI advancements that elevate both business performance and employee satisfaction.”
The program will run from July 17 to September 3, 2026, featuring a mix of virtual and in-person sessions. Virtual classes will be held every Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PST, wrapping up with an in-person session at the Leadership Development Institute on September 3.
For more information or to register, interested individuals can visit the official website of the UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business.
