KPMG US is piloting a new training program for its audit interns at the KPMG Lakehouse facility in Florida, emphasizing critical thinking, data analysis, and drawing conclusions, rather than traditional technical auditing skills. This initiative comes as the auditing profession evolves with the integration of artificial intelligence and increased data analysis.
The interns will participate in critical-thinking simulations, team-based competitions focused on company values, and communication workshops. A key aspect of the training will be learning to interpret and apply insights from AI tools, with an emphasis on using AI as an input for judgment and sound decision-making for clients. Earlier training on specific auditing tasks using KPMG's AI-powered platform, KPMG Clara, will now primarily occur at local offices at the start of internships.
The new program, described as "human-centric," prioritizes skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and team leadership. This summer, KPMG expects to host approximately 1,000 audit interns at Lakehouse for this modified program. Historically, interns would receive more technical instruction during their short stay at Lakehouse, which offers various amenities including a putting green.
KPMG's US chair and CEO, Tim Walsh, stated that the new model reflects the capabilities that increasingly define top performers: judgment, adaptability, and the ability to navigate ambiguous problems collaboratively. The firm believes that current professionals are more involved in data analysis and extraction than traditional auditing tasks. There is potential for this approach to expand to tax and advisory interns over time.
A recent KPMG survey of over 430 US interns in Tax, Audit, and Advisory functions highlighted that 72% agree that access to AI-related training and tools is an important factor when considering an employer. Furthermore, 51% use generative AI for work-related purposes, and 48% believe that 20% of their future full-time job will be automated by AI.
