In a significant move to prepare the workforce for the next phase of artificial intelligence, Hexaware Technologies has partnered with upGrad Enterprise to launch the Agentic AI Academy. This initiative aims to equip employees with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in an era dominated by agentic systems—autonomous, intelligent software agents capable of planning, acting, and adapting in real time.
The concept of agentic systems represents a paradigm shift in how businesses operate. Unlike traditional automation, which often relies on predefined rules and scripts, agentic systems are designed to learn from their environment, make decisions, and execute tasks independently. This evolution is not just about enhancing efficiency; it’s about redefining the roles of human workers and AI agents in the workplace.
Hexaware’s commitment to AI education is not new. The company previously trained 95% of its employees in AI fundamentals, laying a solid foundation for this next step. With the Agentic AI Academy, Hexaware is now focusing on deeper, specialized skills that will enable teams to work alongside AI agents effectively. As Vinod Chandran, COO at Hexaware, aptly stated, “Agentic technologies are becoming fundamental to how enterprises operate. Agentic Academy ensures our people are equipped not only to use these systems but to lead engagements built around them.”
The academy offers three distinct learning tracks tailored to different roles within the organization:
1. **Builder.AI**: This track is designed for developers and engineers who are tasked with creating AI agents from the ground up. It emphasizes safety and orchestration, ensuring that those building these systems understand the complexities involved in developing autonomous agents. Participants will engage in hands-on labs and projects that simulate real-world scenarios, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
2. **Collaborator.AI**: Aimed at teams that need to adapt and customize open-source or platform-based agents for specific client projects, this track focuses on collaboration and integration. Participants will learn how to leverage existing AI frameworks and tools to meet unique business needs, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability within the organization.
3. **Manage.AI**: This track equips managers with the skills necessary to oversee the collaboration between humans and AI agents. It covers essential topics such as quality checks, real-time monitoring, and performance evaluation. Managers will learn how to create an environment where human workers and AI can coexist and complement each other’s strengths, ultimately driving better outcomes for the organization.
All learning paths are designed to be integrated into the flow of work, utilizing upGrad’s platform to deliver content, labs, and certifications seamlessly. This approach ensures that employees can learn without disrupting their daily responsibilities, making it easier to adopt new skills and knowledge.
As organizations transition from automation to intelligent orchestration, the demand for agentic expertise is expected to grow. Satyajith Mundakkal, CTO at Hexaware, highlighted this shift, stating, “We’re moving from automation to intelligent orchestration, where agents collaborate, decide, and deliver outcomes. This shift is redefining roles and creating demand for agentic expertise.” The academy aims to prepare talent to lead real-world agentic assignments with confidence and capability.
Early participants in the program have already begun applying their training to live projects, demonstrating the immediate impact of the academy’s offerings. This hands-on experience is crucial, as it allows employees to bridge the gap between theory and practice, reinforcing their learning and enhancing their problem-solving skills.
The launch of the Agentic AI Academy comes at a time when many organizations are grappling with the implications of AI on their operations. As agentic systems reshape enterprise functions, the ability to adapt quickly and effectively will be a key differentiator in the marketplace. Srikanth Iyengar, CEO of upGrad Enterprise, emphasized this point, noting that “as agentic systems reshape enterprise operations, the real differentiator will be how quickly organizations can translate that shift into customer impact.”
The partnership between Hexaware and upGrad signifies a broader trend in the industry: the recognition that continuous learning and upskilling are essential for success in an increasingly automated world. Companies that invest in their workforce’s education will not only enhance their operational capabilities but also foster a culture of innovation and resilience.
Moreover, the Agentic AI Academy aligns with the growing emphasis on lifelong learning in the tech industry. As technology evolves at an unprecedented pace, professionals must remain agile and adaptable, continually updating their skills to stay relevant. This initiative provides a structured pathway for employees to do just that, ensuring they are well-equipped to face the challenges and opportunities presented by agentic systems.
In conclusion, the launch of the Agentic AI Academy by Hexaware Technologies and upGrad Enterprise marks a pivotal moment in the journey toward integrating AI into the workforce. By focusing on specialized skills and role-based learning, the academy is set to empower employees to harness the potential of agentic systems effectively. As organizations embrace this new era of intelligent orchestration, the ability to adapt and innovate will be paramount. The academy not only prepares individuals for the future of work but also positions companies to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. Through this initiative, Hexaware and upGrad are leading the charge in shaping a workforce that is ready to collaborate with AI, driving meaningful impact for businesses and customers alike.