Amazon Web Services (AWS) CEO Matt Garman believes that thriving in the age of artificial intelligence will depend less on technical expertise and more on human-centric soft skills. Speaking in a recent CNBC Closing Bell Overtime interview, Garman revealed the advice he gives his teenage child: “Develop your critical thinking skills in college, no matter what subject you study.”
According to Garman, as AI becomes more integrated into workplaces, employers will increasingly value qualities like creativity, flexibility, and critical thinking over purely technical knowledge such as machine learning.
“Part of going to college is building your ability to think critically. In some ways, I think that’s actually going to be the most important skill going forward,” he noted.
Garman stressed that success in the AI age will come from being able to adapt quickly, learn new things, and think independently—qualities machines cannot easily replicate.
Beyond Critical Thinking: Two More Key Skills
In addition to critical thinking, Garman highlighted two other essential abilities for students and professionals:
- Adaptability to new technologies, including AI tools and digital agents.
- Effective communication skills, particularly in working with colleagues and serving customers.
He pointed out that communication remains a domain where humans have a strong advantage over AI—thanks to empathy, emotional intelligence, active listening, and the ability to give meaningful feedback.
“Those skills are important today. I think they’ll be just as important, if not more important, in the future,” Garman said.
While AI can handle administrative tasks, Garman emphasized that customers still want human interaction for personalized insights and emotional connection.
“People skills are going to continue to be super important for a long time,” he concluded.