(BPT) - In today's digital-first world, where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping every industry, companies face a new imperative: keep learning or risk falling behind. At Cognizant, a global technology leader with more than 335,000 employees, that challenge is being met with an innovative, future-forward response.
Advancing AI innovation crucially depends on building a talent pool with the right skills to harness its full potential. Cognizant has invested heavily in a transformative internal learning and development ecosystem, headlined by Synapse, a next-generation program designed to help workers gain the skills they need by 2026 to thrive in an AI-driven economy. Synapse isn't just another learning program — it's an experience aimed at giving more than one million workers an edge on tomorrow.
"Learning isn't one-size-fits-all," said Ravi Kumar S, CEO. "Synapse allows us to meet workers where they are, with curated content, real-time assessments, and AI-guided recommendations tailored to individual growth paths."
Learning at the speed of AI
AI is not just the subject of Cognizant's learning strategy, it powers it. Using generative AI and machine learning, Synapse is training its own associates as well as jobseekers to perform high-demand tech skills. Candidates can complete skills accelerator courses, helping build a pipeline of experienced and emerging talent that meets today's hiring demands. Jobseekers can also apply for "earn while you learn" apprenticeships that provide structured learning and on-the-job training to build skills and advance careers at Cognizant. Additionally, through collaborations with technology partners, Cognizant is expanding the reach of its training so associates can learn to leverage the latest, cutting-edge technologies. Through philanthropic grants, volunteerism, mentoring and education partnerships, Synapse's community education programs also reach thousands of individuals worldwide.
By partnering with organizations like universities, community colleges and workforce development groups, as well as investing in its own associates' learning, Cognizant is building a talent pipeline that enhances workers' skills and drives community impact.
Since its debut, more than 439,000 individuals have engaged with Synapse, with overwhelmingly positive feedback on its applicability across roles.
Recognition for excellence
Cognizant's commitment to continuous learning hasn't gone unnoticed. The company was recognized as one of Fortune's Change the World companies for its commitment to learning and development.
In addition, Cognizant was recognized by Brandon Hall Group with multiple awards for excellence in learning and development, including Gold in "Best Unique or Innovative Learning and Development Program" and "Best Competencies and Skill Development."
"These accolades reaffirm our belief that investing in people is the best way to invest in the future," said Kathy Diaz, Cognizant's Chief People Officer. "The pace of technological change means the half-life of skills is shrinking. We're building a culture where learning never stops."
Bluebolt: Innovation from the ground up
To put these cutting-edge skills to use, Cognizant continues to invest in Bluebolt, an internal innovation accelerator that empowers every associate to think like an entrepreneur. Through Bluebolt, employees are encouraged to submit bold ideas — no matter how big or small — that leverage AI and advanced technologies to improve business, delight clients and transform how companies work.
To date, Bluebolt has generated more than 427,000 ideas from across the company, with more than 70,000 already implemented with clients. Many of these ideas have evolved into client-facing solutions, employee enablement tools and process improvements — showcasing the power of grassroots innovation.
"Bluebolt isn't about waiting for permission to innovate — it's about unleashing the creative potential of our people," said Alexis Samuel, SVP of Delivery Excellence. "We believe innovation starts with curiosity, and curiosity starts with learning."
Vibe Coding Week
To increase visibility, showcase the empowering side of AI and further engage associates, Cognizant created the first ever Vibe Coding Week that started July 30, 2025. The goal of this event is to capitalize on an important inflection point: As AI-enabled coding increases, human labor is being reimagined, and every employee can play a role in this transformation.
With more than 250,000 employees — from HR and sales to engineering and marketing — registered, Cognizant is attempting a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for most participants in an online generative AI hackathon, a category that closely mirrors the structure and approach of its vibe coding event. To put this into context, according to a Stanford study, the human body can generate up to 400 watts of energy during active moments, like during vibe coding. Multiply that by 250,000 associates vibe coding at the same time, and you get 100 megawatts which equals the output of a nuclear power plant. Or simply put, with that much energy, you might be able to toast 1.8 million slices of bread or potentially power 80,000 homes in Mountain View, CA.
Cognizant's Vibe Coding Week aims to engage thousands of employees by featuring hands-on workshops, a prompt engineering toolkit, best-practice sessions, an innovation competition, and recognition for outstanding projects. Following the week's end, participants can join the Cognizant Global Vibe Coding Community to continue sharing ideas and advancing solutions within the company and for clients.
The road ahead
As the nature of work continues to evolve, Cognizant is leaning into change. From cutting-edge AI learning platforms to a global culture of innovation and upskilling, the company is charting a course for what the future of work can look like when people are empowered to grow, adapt and lead.
For employees, the message is clear: You are not just part of a company. You are part of a learning movement — one designed to build a base of tech talent who have the skills and ideas that will shape the potential of our world tomorrow.
