Technovation with Peter High (CIO, CTO, CDO, CXO Interviews) Designing the Skills-First Enterprise: AI and Workforce Reinvention
Feb 19, 2026
Ehren Powell, Chief Digital Officer at Marathon Petroleum, leads digital transformation across massive refining and midstream operations. He discusses building a skills-first organization, decomposing roles and reassembling work with AI. Topics include treating AI as a value multiplier, contextualizing sensor data, creating data domain ownership, applying edge tech for safety, and fostering curiosity and upskilling.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Using Edge Tech For Remote Safety
- Marathon used edge technology and computer vision in remote midstream sites to detect crude leaks and predict maintenance needs.
- The team also applied generative AI to give employees and contractors fast access to standards and policies, improving safety practices.
Centralize Data With Domain Ownership
- Create a central data platform to bring site data into the enterprise and generate company-wide value.
- Appoint data domain owners and stewards to expose and manage differentiating data for enterprise use.
Run Skills Pathways, Not Job Predictions
- Map current skills, project future needs, and measure proficiency to close gaps through upskilling and certifications.
- Use modern learning platforms to build curated skill pathways and accelerate employee growth.
