AI has nestled itself into the foundation of today’s workplace, but despite its capabilities and resources, few are seeing any real benefit from it. For most businesses, AI is the new, shin
y toy being used any and everywhere in hopes it makes a difference. But, like any other tool, if not used intentionally, with concrete strategy behind it, AI won’t bring the changes you’re seeking.
So, how do you integrate AI in a way that’s both effective and efficient? According to Ross Sparkman, Head of Workforce Planning for Nutrien, it’s a balancing act. “How do we truly transform our workforces and our organizations in a way that we are working side by side with this technology, and we don’t lose touch with the human and the cultural piece,” he says.
Sparkman is set to speak at SPARK Talent 2025, where he’ll be presenting on several resources and strategies HR professionals need to know if they’re going to properly adopt AI agents and get ahead in the future of workplace strategy.
But before his talk, HR Daily Advisor got to chat with him on what he thinks the future of an agentic AI workforce looks like, and how to start preparing for it. Here were the 3 biggest takeaways we got from our conversation!
Leading The Future with AI by BLR Media
If you’re interested in hearing even more from Ross Sparkman, please join us live in San Antonio at SPARK TALENT 2025, October 7–9, 2025. You’ll also hear from other speakers from ADM, PepsiCo, GE Healthcare, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, The Coca-Cola Company, and more. Get practical strategies focusing on workplace planning, talent acquisition, and AI-driven processes, with plenty of opportunities for you to connect with the HR community.