In today’s rapidly evolving tech world, HR departments are taking on a bigger role—ensuring their teams not only understand emerging technologies but also use them responsibly. In my interviews with four leading experts in technology, each emphasized the critical need for both tech literacy and ethical application, providing insights that can guide organizations in navigating these responsibilities effectively. After speaking with leaders like Keith Krach, former Chairman and CEO of DocuSign, former Under Secretary of State, and creator of the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy, and Jon Pelson, author of Wireless Wars, one thing stands out: tech literacy is key, but ethics are non-negotiable. It’s not enough for employees to know how to use AI or machine learning; they need to understand the potential consequences of these technologies and act accordingly. Additionally, when I interviewed Jürgen Schmidhuber, a leading AI researcher known as the “father of modern AI,” and Richard Stallman, the founder of the free software movement and creator of the GNU Project (which is part of the Linux operating system), they both emphasized the need for a deeper understanding of the implications that tech advancements will have on jobs and society.
What Kind Of Technology Training Should CHROs Be Offering?
One of my favorite courses I wrote and taught many years ago was Ethics in Technology. Today, training employees is not just about learning the latest tools; it’s about fostering a workplace culture where continuous learning and ethical tech usage are top priorities. Leaders like Schmidhuber and Stallman remind us that technology’s power comes with responsibility—something CHROs must address in their training programs.
- Make learning a constant: Offer regular workshops, certifications, and microlearning opportunities that keep employees updated on the newest technologies—from AI to cybersecurity. Schmidhuber explained that AI is like any evolving system—it needs constant updates and refinements, and so do employees’ tech skills. It’s about creating a workplace where staying curious is the norm.
- Train across departments: Tech literacy shouldn’t be limited to just the IT department. Every team, from marketing to HR, needs to understand how technology impacts their work. Cross-functional knowledge is key to helping employees innovate and collaborate more effectively. Pelson stressed how interconnected everything has become, noting that “even non-tech roles require a strong grasp of the digital ecosystem.”
- Focus on ethics: With great power comes great responsibility, and the same goes for technology. Ensure your training programs include a focus on recognizing and preventing unethical uses of technology. As Keith Krach emphasized, “Trust in technology is non-negotiable.” Additionally, Stallman’s long-standing advocacy for user freedom in tech underscores the necessity of putting ethical use at the forefront of tech literacy.
Why Should CHROs Care About Ethical Technology Use?
As businesses race to adopt the latest innovations, they must also confront the ethical dilemmas that come with them. AI and data-driven systems can unintentionally perpetuate biases if not monitored properly. CHROs have a critical role in ensuring their teams understand both the power and the pitfalls of these tools.
Jon Pelson highlighted in our conversation how important it is for companies to establish clear ethical guidelines. “The choices we make now,” Pelson said, “will shape the future of technology and the workforce.” It’s up to CHROs to create a workplace where technology is used responsibly and in line with company values.
- Create ethical guidelines for tech use: Develop clear policies around how your organization uses emerging technologies, particularly when it comes to data privacy, transparency, and bias. Schmidhuber also noted that AI systems must be aligned with human values, emphasizing that ethical oversight is essential for future tech development.
- Encourage transparency and accountability: Foster an environment where employees feel comfortable raising ethical concerns related to technology without fear of retaliation. When employees feel empowered to speak up, it helps companies stay ahead of potential issues and build trust.
Empowering Leadership To Promote Tech Literacy
Leaders play a vital role in setting the tone for the rest of the organization. If your leadership team doesn’t fully understand technology or its ethical implications, how can they guide their teams effectively?
- Ensure leaders stay ahead: Give your leadership team access to ongoing education about the latest technologies. It’s crucial for them to not only know the tech but to model ethical behavior for their teams. As Schmidhuber pointed out, leadership must “embrace lifelong learning” to truly keep pace with the ever-evolving tech space.
- Foster collaboration: Encourage cross-department collaboration so that leaders can understand how technology impacts every part of the organization. When teams work together, they can innovate and address challenges more effectively.
Embedding Tech Literacy Into Company Culture
For tech literacy to truly take root in your organization, it needs to be more than just a training program—it has to become part of the company’s culture. A culture of continuous learning and ethical tech use can drive innovation and set your organization apart.
- Create a shared vision for tech literacy: Communicate that staying ahead in technology isn’t just a trend—it’s a critical component of long-term success. Make it clear that tech literacy and ethical behavior are core values. As Stallman frequently warns, organizations that fail to prioritize ethical tech use may find themselves caught in dilemmas they didn’t anticipate.
- Reward continuous learning: Recognize employees who take the initiative to upskill and improve their tech knowledge. Whether through promotions, recognition, or incentives, encourage learning and curiosity.
CHROs As Champions Of Tech Literacy And Ethical Technology Use
CHROs have the opportunity to shape their organizations by fostering tech literacy and promoting the ethical use of technology. By encouraging continuous learning, empowering leaders, and embedding ethical standards, CHROs can ensure their workforce is equipped for the digital future—while also acting responsibly.