HP Exec: Gen Z Not Lazy, But Tech-Savvy Leaders

An HP executive has hit back at the notion that Gen Z is lazy, instead highlighting their ability to listen, build relationships, and understand customer needs. George Brasher, SVP and managing director, North America for HP, believes that growing up in the digital era is a superpower for Gen Z, enabling them to drive innovation and create a more interconnected and inclusive world.

Brasher, who oversees a team with a significant number of Gen Z employees, says that he has seen firsthand their ability to build trust and relationships with customers. He notes that Gen Z and millennials have the highest use of AI and technology, which gives them an edge in the workplace. According to Brasher, this tech savviness is not only making them more skilled on the job but also translating to a better quality working life.

The importance of AI skills in the evolving job market cannot be overstated. In the US, there was a 66% increase in job postings requiring AI-related skills from 2024 to last year, with over one million job postings requiring these skills as of last year. Similarly, in India, there were nearly 2.9 lakh AI-related job postings in 2025, with hiring demand expected to grow to nearly 3.8 lakh this year, a 32% increase.

HP, which employs about 55,000 workers globally, believes that Gen Z is leading the charge in creating a more interconnected, inclusive, and conscientious world. With their digital-first approach to collaboration, they are building communities and driving innovation. As Brasher notes, growing up in the digital era is their superpower, and it's enabling them to make a significant impact in the workplace.

## Why it matters The debate around Gen Z's abilities and work ethic is not new, but it's refreshing to see a major tech company like HP recognizing their value. As the job market continues to evolve, it's clear that AI skills will play a crucial role in determining success. By embracing Gen Z's tech savviness and digital native status, companies like HP can tap into their innovative spirit and create a more inclusive and interconnected world.

## What happens next As the demand for AI skills continues to grow, it's likely that we'll see more companies investing in training and development programs to help employees build these skills. With Gen Z leading the charge, we can expect to see a shift in the way companies approach collaboration, innovation, and customer relationships. As Brasher notes, it's essential for companies to recognize the value of Gen Z's skills and approach to work, and to create an environment that supports their growth and development.