> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.trentcotton.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Future of HR is Agentic with Ken Schumacher - URL: https://www.trentcotton.com/future-of-hr-is-agentic-with-ken-schumacher/ - Published: 2025-03-24T12:47:42.000Z - Updated: 2026-09-17T21:30:39.000Z - Author: Trent Cotton - Tags: Podcast Recaps What was the common theme at the Transform conference last week? HR is being completely rewired, and AI is the electrician holding the wires. While most HR pros are still debating whether to dip their toes in the AI pool, the innovators are already swimming laps. Case in point: my recent conversation with [Ken Schumacher](https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenschu?miniProfileUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afs%5FminiProfile%3AACoAACPqxv4B2qIcVBCYcGoLC5mHfOtpAD03Fjg&ref=trentcotton.com), the founder of [Ropes,](https://www.linkedin.com/company/ropes-ai/?ref=trentcotton.com) who's flipping the script on how we assess talent using AI. Here's what makes Ken fascinating – he's an engineer, not an HR lifer. No preconceived notions, no "we've always done it this way" baggage. Just pure, unadulterated innovation from someone who looked at our outdated recruitment methods and essentially said, "You're doing this all wrong." And honestly? He's not wrong. Warning about this video: The only thing to match Ken's AI genius is his incredible and infectious energy. You'll definitely feel it come through the video. ### Find this episode on: 📺 [Full Version on YouTube](https://youtu.be/HbqF4HkhNbI?ref=trentcotton.com) 🎧 [You can also listen on Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/show/2F43qtXmI1mJxcNfFasmNm?ref=trentcotton.com) --- ### Soundbites Ken Schumacher dropped some serious knowledge bombs in this episode! Here are a few soundbites that really stuck with me: - "I think you start to see, we see this again, I love using engineers, but I think it translates to other disciplines as well. As these AI tools get better and better and better, you kind of have the users versus the non-users." - "When we hire at Ropes, honestly, we look for candidates that are really great at using these AI tools." - "I think there's a real advantage \[to using AI tools\] there. So yeah, it's an exciting time." - "A lot of the signal or the value of the read that you get on an engineer comes out in how they solve problems, right?" - "The long-term vision here is moving from where you went to school and what you've done into what you can do." ### The Agentic Future of AI in HR Ken highlighted the concept of "agentic AI" and its potential to reshape HR. Agentic AI goes beyond basic chatbots and AI assistance. It involves creating AI agents that can autonomously execute tasks, such as [sourcing qualified candidates](https://www.hrtechtalent.com/blog/ai-sourcing-tools?ref=trentcotton.com), scheduling interviews, and even conducting initial screening calls. Imagine an AI intern that can handle those repetitive, time-consuming tasks, freeing up HR professionals to focus on more strategic and human-centric activities. While this may sound futuristic, the building blocks of agentic AI are already in place. Tools like ChatGPT can automate tasks like writing job descriptions, crafting email responses, and summarizing candidate profiles. As these tools evolve, they will become increasingly sophisticated, taking on more complex responsibilities and further streamlining [HR processes and workflows](https://www.hranalytics101.com/hr-process-optimization?ref=trentcotton.com). ### Embracing AI for a Competitive Edge Ken emphasized the importance of embracing AI tools to stay competitive in the evolving job market. HR professionals who are comfortable using AI will be better equipped to leverage its potential for increased efficiency, improved decision-making, and enhanced candidate experience. This doesn't mean every HR professional needs to become an AI expert. Start by experimenting with readily available tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and AI-powered features within your existing HR tech stack. Explore how these tools can [automate administrative tasks](https://www.peoplemanagement.ai/automation-strategies?ref=trentcotton.com) that consume valuable time and energy. According to a [recent Deloitte report](https://www2.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/focus/technology-and-the-future-of-work/ai-in-hr-human-resources.html?ref=trentcotton.com), organizations that embrace AI in HR are seeing significant improvements in efficiency, with up to 40% reduction in time spent on routine tasks. This allows HR professionals to focus on strategic initiatives that drive business value. By embracing AI and continuously experimenting with new tools, HR professionals can position themselves as leaders in the field, driving innovation and creating a more efficient and effective HR function. As [Gartner research](https://www.gartner.com/en/human-resources/topics/artificial-intelligence?ref=trentcotton.com) suggests, by 2025, more than 75% of HR organizations will be using some form of AI to improve talent management capabilities. ### Final Thoughts The conversation with Ken Schumacher provided invaluable insights into the transformative power of AI in human capital and recruitment. As AI continues to evolve, HR professionals must adapt and embrace new technologies to stay ahead of the curve. By experimenting with AI tools, focusing on outcomes, and prioritizing the human element, HR can leverage AI's potential to create a more efficient, equitable, and [engaging recruitment process](https://www.talentacquisitionstrategies.com/modern-recruitment?ref=trentcotton.com). A [recent Harvard Business Review article](https://hbr.org/2023/03/how-ai-will-transform-hr?ref=trentcotton.com) highlights that the most successful AI implementations in HR are those that augment human capabilities rather than replace them. This collaborative approach between humans and AI is what will truly revolutionize the HR function in the coming years. **Are you ready to embrace the AI revolution in HR?** Subscribe to The Human Capitalist podcast and join the mailing list at [https://bit.ly/3UrBhGP](https://bit.ly/3UrBhGP?ref=trentcotton.com) for more insights and updates on the future of work. --- Like this content? 👍 If you like this content, please do me a favor and like it on LinkedIn AND more importantly, share it with your network! This helps me understand what topics most align with those in the newsletter. 👎 If you don't like it, put in the comments what you'd like to see so I can make the adjustments. I truly want this to be a value added newsletter. 🤖 Interested in AI in HR? I hope so because that's what I'm passionate about. Be sure to subscribe to me channels and stay up to date on everything that is changing! [Click here to follow me on your channel of choice!](https://linktr.ee/hrcapitalist?ref=trentcotton.com) 🎙️ Are you looking for a speaker who's passionate about the evolution of HR, Success Strategies for the People Function, or HR Data Analytics?! I have some slots open for podcast and conferences. If you'd like to learn more about my style and topics or if you'd like to book me, [click here to learn more](https://www.speakerbooking.com/hrfuturist?ref=trentcotton.com).