Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has a clear message for graduates anxious about artificial intelligence (AI) rendering their degrees obsolete: stop worrying and start running. Speaking to 5,800 students at Carnegie Mellon University, Huang emphasized that no generation has entered the world with more powerful tools or greater opportunities. He declared, "We are all standing at the same starting line. This is your moment to help shape what comes next. So run. Don't walk."
AI as a Once-in-a-Generation Opportunity
Huang, who received an Honorary Doctorate in Science and Technology for his work in accelerated computing and AI, described an economy on the verge of transformation. He argued that AI development across the United States represents a unique chance to reindustrialize America and restore its capacity to build. This opportunity extends beyond software engineers and AI researchers, he noted, as constructing chip factories, data centers, and advanced manufacturing facilities will require plumbers, electricians, ironworkers, and builders. These roles, he assured, will not be replaced by any algorithm anytime soon. Huang added, "A new industry is being born. A new era of science and discovery is beginning. I cannot imagine a more exciting time to begin your life's work."
Addressing Fears About AI
Huang acknowledged that every major technological revolution in history has created fear alongside opportunity. He stated, "When society engages technology openly, responsibly, and optimistically, we expand human potential far more than we diminish it." His message aimed to reassure graduates that AI will create jobs and opportunities rather than eliminate them.
Intel CEO Congratulates Jensen Huang
Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan attended the ceremony and placed the doctoral hood on Huang. In a post on X, Tan congratulated his "good friend" on the honorary doctorate and publicly confirmed the partnership between Intel and Nvidia, two companies that have long competed in the chip market. Tan wrote, "Congratulations to my good friend Jensen Huang on being awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Science and Technology from @CarnegieMellon University for his outstanding contributions to accelerated computing and Artificial Intelligence. It was my honor to place upon him his doctoral hood this morning."
