The Home Depot AI in Retail Technology Remote Externship

This is some text inside of a div block.

Externs will explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping key areas of the retail industry, with a primary focus on workforce management, as well as customer-facing functions like loyalty programs and payment systems. Externs will develop actionable recommendations to support The Home Depot in adopting AI solutions that align with its core values and long-term business goals.

Overview

In this externship program, students will learn strategic consulting skills to analyze and evaluate challenges from non-profit organizations using consulting frameworks, in an overall effort to help them solve their important problems. Selected individuals will be paired with a specific non-profit organization and dive into their strategic problems, such as development, impact assessment, process improvements, talent engagement, communication, and strategic positioning. Throughout this externship program, professionals from PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) will provide mentorship and coaching.

The Experience

Learn about the strategy consulting process and how to help create value for a non-profit client based on their vision and mission
Research and develop an understanding of a given field
Analyze complex problems ranging from fundraising and development, stakeholder management, impact measurement, as well as use consulting frameworks to help identify problem areas and propose solutions
Learn to gather, analyze, and visualize data to inform problem areas and possible solutions
Create and deliver a compelling presentation to a non-profit client that incorporates valuable insights, trends, and recommendations

Qualifications

Ambitious undergraduate students with an interest in consulting, strategy, and non-profits. This program is for students who would like to understand the consulting profession while generating ideas to help impact non-profit organizations.

Overview

Are you ready to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of retail?

The Home Depot AI in Retail Technology Externship is an 8-week, part-time, fully remote experience where you'll dive deep into the intersection of AI, workforce management, and customer engagement in one of the world’s largest home improvement retailers. You'll work alongside peers to research, analyze, and recommend real AI-driven strategies that could shape the future of retail operations.

From optimizing how employees are hired, trained, and scheduled to exploring innovations in loyalty programs and payments, you’ll play a vital role in identifying how The Home Depot can adopt AI responsibly and strategically—all while aligning with its values-driven mission.
‍

‍What You’ll Work On

AI in Workforce Optimization – Analyze how retailers are using AI to improve scheduling, hiring, onboarding, and productivity.
Customer-Facing Innovation – Explore AI applications in loyalty programs, payment systems, and customer personalization.
Competitive Benchmarking – Research how companies like Walmart, Target, and Amazon leverage AI and compare their strategies to The Home Depot’s.
Strategic Recommendations – Deliver insights and data-backed solutions to help Home Depot enhance operations and customer experience using AI.
Executive-Ready Presentation – Present your findings and recommendations in a polished slide deck and recorded video presentation. Top externs may be selected to pitch to Home Depot executives.

‍Explore Key Concepts & Skills

Business Process Design
Workforce Management & Scheduling
AI Strategy in Retail
Market Research & Competitive Analysis
Customer Experience Optimization
Change Management & Digital Transformation
Professional Presentation & Communication

What’s Waiting for You

Hands-On Experience – Work on real-world problems with one of the most iconic brands in retail.
Professional Network – Learn directly from industry leaders and collaborate with peers from across the country.
Future-Ready Skills – Build knowledge in emerging technologies, AI tools, and strategy consulting that employers look for.
Portfolio-Ready Deliverables – Create and present a full analysis and recommendation deck showcasing your strategic thinking.
A Competitive Edge – Gain skills and experiences that stand out in roles across retail strategy, AI, consulting, and operations.

Why This Is Perfect for You

You are currently enrolled in a U.S.-based community college or university.
You are curious about how AI is transforming real-world industries—especially retail.
You want to explore careers in business, data, tech, or consulting.
You’re excited to build a project that connects technology and customer impact.
You’re looking for a remote, flexible opportunity that fits alongside your studies.

Overview

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

‍

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic

Externship Currently Closed
New applications are not currently being accepted.

Apply by May 24, 2025

Submit your application ASAP

Part-time and fully remote

This Externship is a 10-hour-per-week fully remote experience where all meetings and events are recorded.

May 26, 2025

This remote Externship will last 8 weeks.

$1000 Stipend

Students who successfully complete their externships will receive their educational stipends at the end of the program.

Required Academic Standing

Students must be an undergraduate sophomore, junior, or rising senior attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

Eligibility

Students must be attending an HBCU in the United States.

About

The Home Depot

Founded in 1978 with approximately 500,000 associates, The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement retailer. In 2,300 stores across North America, we aspire to excel in service – to our customers, associates, communities and shareholders. That’s what leadership means to us. That's The Home Depot difference. Our culture and success are built on an unwavering loyalty to eight guiding principles: creating shareholder value, entrepreneurial spirit, taking care of our people, respect for all people, doing the right thing, building strong relationships, giving back and excellent customer service. We live by a simple premise by our founders: Put customer and associates first and the rest will take care of itself.