In a recent commentary, the CEO of Cognizant argued that traditional life stages — education, career, and retirement — are becoming outdated as artificial intelligence reshapes how people live and work. He suggests that AI’s rapid pace of change accelerates skill obsolescence and demands more flexible ways for individuals to remain relevant and fulfilled across their lifetimes. The old sequential model of learning first, then working for decades, no longer fits a world where technology evolves constantly.
According to the perspective offered, learning should not be confined to early life but integrated continuously with work. Rather than seeing education and employment as separate phases, future career paths should blend formal learning with real work experiences throughout adulthood. This fluid approach helps individuals transition between roles and adapt skills as industries evolve, enabling lifelong growth rather than skills stagnation.
To support this shift, the commentary highlights examples like apprenticeship and fellowship programs that combine paid work with structured learning. These models, which already exist in parts of Europe and are gaining traction elsewhere, allow people to gain hands-on experience while earning credentials. Such frameworks encourage employers and educational institutions to co-design pathways that prepare talent for the dynamic demands of an AI-enabled economy.
Finally, the CEO underscores the role of businesses in shaping this new life template. Companies are positioned at the forefront of technological change and must partner with schools and universities to bring work tools and real projects into learning environments. By building internal programs that support continuous reskilling and by collaborating on external educational initiatives, organizations can help individuals navigate multiple career chapters in a world where learning and working are inseparable.
