Fran Katsoudas, Cisco’s Chief People, Policy, and Purpose Officer, is sounding the alarm on AI’s transformative power in the workplace, calling it a “significant accelerant” when paired with strategic investment in people.
Speaking from the heart of the global tech giant’s headquarters, Katsoudas emphasized that while AI boosts productivity—evident in its near-doubling of workplace adoption in the U.S. from 21% in 2023 to 40% in 2025—it’s the human potential it unlocks that truly matters.
“Productivity is just the starting line,” Katsoudas declared. “The real opportunity lies in preparing our employees to lead with confidence and harness AI’s potential for themselves, our company, customers, and communities.” Her vision is backed by hard numbers: as of June 2025, Cisco has upskilled over 35,000 employees in AI—a staggering 121% increase year-over-year—while its Cisco Networking Academy, launched in 1997, has empowered 28 million learners globally with essential digital skills.
Katsoudas is steering Cisco toward a philosophical embrace of AI, encouraging employees to experiment boldly and innovate responsibly. Dubbed “Responsible AI Champs,” staff are exploring ways to enhance their work, from engineers designing new architectures to sales teams crafting AI-driven go-to-market strategies. The company is also pioneering inclusivity, integrating AI features like meeting summarizers and sign language interpreters to support neurodivergent users and those with disabilities.
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This people-first approach aligns with Cisco’s refreshed principles—think big, play to win, drive durable growth—reinforced by a robust learning culture. In 2024, employees averaged 25.6 hours of training each, with a $1,700-per-person investment, keeping the workforce competitive amid rapid change.
Beyond internal growth, Cisco’s mission to “power an inclusive future for all” shines through community impact. In 2024, 86% of its workforce volunteered 720,000 hours, contributing $556 million in cash and in-kind support—the highest ever recorded.
“Our purpose remains our anchor,” Katsoudas affirmed. “By fostering a people-centric culture, embracing learning, and leveraging AI responsibly, Cisco is poised to lead the future of work and technology for decades to come.”
