OpenAI has announced plans to develop an artificial intelligence-powered recruitment platform designed to connect job candidates with employers. This initiative represents part of OpenAI's broader strategy to advance AI education and scale both consumer and enterprise products, potentially creating direct competition with Microsoft's (MSFT.US) LinkedIn platform.

The announcement was made last Thursday by Fidji Simo, CEO of OpenAI's applications division and former Instacart CEO, in a blog post. She emphasized that the recruitment platform would extend beyond serving large corporations seeking talent acquisition. "Importantly, this recruitment platform isn't just a tool for big companies to attract more talent. It will also feature dedicated sections to help local businesses enhance their competitiveness and assist local governments in finding the AI talent they need to better serve their residents," Simo stated.

While specific details remain limited, an OpenAI spokesperson indicated that the recruitment platform is expected to launch by mid-2026. The company also plans to expand its online learning center, OpenAI Academy, by introducing certification programs.

The new coursework will offer certificates at various levels, ranging from basic workplace AI skills to advanced training in AI customization roles and prompt engineering. "We will expand Academy courses by providing certifications for different levels of AI fluency, from foundational knowledge of using AI in the workplace to AI customization roles and prompt engineering," Simo explained. She noted that the program will utilize ChatGPT's learning models to facilitate interactive practice sessions for learners.

Despite Microsoft remaining OpenAI's largest investor with approximately $13 billion in holdings, the partnership between the two companies has grown increasingly complex. Last year, Microsoft formally designated OpenAI as a competitor in areas including search and advertising.