OpenAI CEO Sam Altman Expresses Envy for Gen Z Startup Founders Skipping College
SAN FRANCISCO – openai CEO Sam Altman revealed he is “envious” of Gen Z individuals who forgo customary college education to dedicate themselves to building startups,citing their increased “mental space” and time. The sentiment echoes a growing debate over the value of a four-year degree in a rapidly evolving job market, particularly within the tech industry.
Altman, employee No. 84 at Google, shared that his son questioned the necessity of college after spending the summer working in artificial intelligence, even labeling higher education a “scam.” This personal anecdote underscores a broader trend: only 41% of junior U.S. professionals believe a college degree is essential for career success, according to a recent LinkedIn Workforce Confidence survey. The shift in perspective is fueled by the rise of skills-based hiring and the accessibility of choice learning pathways, especially in fields like AI where practical experience is highly valued.
The discussion isn’t limited to openai. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg stated in April on the “This Past Weekend” podcast with Theo Von, ”Maybe not everyone needs to go to college,” acknowledging that numerous jobs don’t require a degree. Zuckerberg noted a growing acceptance of this view compared to a decade ago. This convergence of opinions from leading tech figures signals a potential “reckoning” for the traditional higher education model, as the demand for specialized skills and entrepreneurial ventures increases.
The implications are significant for students, universities, and the future of work.As the cost of college continues to rise and the job market prioritizes demonstrable skills, the pressure to justify the investment in a traditional degree will likely intensify.The Fortune Global Forum, scheduled for October 26-27, 2025, in Riyadh, will gather CEOs and global leaders to discuss the future of buisness, including the evolving role of education and workforce development.
