UC Irvine and Konnect Unveil AI-Driven HR Leadership Program
The AI HR leadership program is at the forefront of preparing today’s HR leaders for the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. In a groundbreaking partnership, the Paul Merage School of Business at UC Irvine and Konnect, a pioneering human resources technology provider, have launched an executive education certification designed to equip CHROs and senior HR executives with the skills and strategic mindset required to lead enterprise AI transformation.
Shaping the Future of HR with AI Strategy
Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept for HR professionals—it is actively transforming every aspect of the employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and organizational design. The newly announced AI HR leadership program, titled “The Future of HR: AI Strategy & Leadership,” directly addresses the urgent need for HR leaders to develop not just proficiency in AI adoption, but the capability to architect organization-wide AI strategies that deliver measurable business results while preserving a human-centric workplace culture.
Dean Ian O. Williamson of the Paul Merage School of Business emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, “The intersection of AI and human capital is one of the most consequential leadership challenges of our time. Our program is designed for leaders who want to shape the future of work—by strategically leveraging AI to strengthen their organizations and support their people.”
Comprehensive Curriculum: Bridging Theory and Practice
The AI HR leadership program stands out for blending rigorous academic frameworks with real-world, practitioner-led insights. Developed collaboratively by UC Irvine faculty and Konnect’s HR experts, the curriculum provides participants with:
- Actionable AI-powered HR strategies that drive organizational value
- Structured approaches for workforce transformation and data-driven decision-making
- Hands-on simulations that guide practical AI implementation and change management
- Immediate, actionable takeaways to apply in their own workplaces
Noah Askin, Associate Professor of Organization and Management and Faculty Director of the Leadership Development Institute, leads the academic side of the program. He explained, “We’re not just teaching executives about AI—we’re cultivating the organizational fluency needed to lead change from within. The combination of research-driven frameworks and practitioner expertise makes this program truly distinctive.”
Empowering HR Leaders for the AI Era
Konnect, known for its modern, people-first HR solutions, views this partnership as a vital step toward where HR leadership must evolve. Jamie Viramontes, founder and CEO of Konnect, highlighted the program’s mission: “Together, we’re helping HR executives build the confidence, strategic insight, and practical capabilities to lead AI transformation in ways that strengthen both business outcomes and the employee experience.” The program’s blend of virtual and in-person sessions ensures a flexible yet engaging learning experience for busy HR leaders.
The AI HR leadership program will run from July 17 through September 3, 2026. Weekly virtual sessions are scheduled on Fridays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. PST, concluding with an in-person capstone session at the Leadership Development Institute. Tuition for the program is $4,800, and prospective participants can learn more or register by visiting the official registration site.
About UC Irvine’s Paul Merage School of Business and Konnect
The Paul Merage School of Business at UC Irvine is renowned for its forward-thinking programs and commitment to preparing business leaders for the challenges of tomorrow. Its Leadership Development Institute, established in 2022, delivers executive education that empowers professionals to navigate uncertainty and lead with purpose.
Konnect, founded in 2020, is a leader in human-centered HR technology, combining high-touch expertise with AI-driven solutions. Their approach focuses on making HR operations more efficient, improving compliance, and enhancing the employee experience—all while keeping HR human.
Conclusion: Leading the AI Transformation in HR
As organizations increasingly recognize the need for strategic leadership in AI adoption, the AI HR leadership program from UC Irvine and Konnect offers an essential pathway for HR executives. By mastering both the strategy and execution of AI in HR, participants will be well-positioned to drive lasting impact within their organizations. The future of HR is here, and those who embrace AI leadership will be at the forefront of this transformation.
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