A wave of uncertainty about artificial intelligence is hanging over new graduates, but Apple cofounder Steve Wozniak delivered a message that cut through the tension and sparked applause instead of backlash. While other commencement speakers this year have been met with boos over AI commentary, Wozniak’s appearance at Grand Valley State University landed very differently, mixing humor, reassurance, and caution about the rapidly changing tech landscape.

A SURPRISING MOMENT ON STAGE

During his graduation speech earlier this month at Grand Valley State University, Wozniak addressed students entering a workforce being reshaped by AI disruption, automation risks, and shifting job expectations.

"You have AI — actual intelligence," Wozniak said.

The line immediately drew laughs and applause from the audience, standing out as one of the most talked about moments of the ceremony.

WHAT AI REALLY MEANS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

Wozniak briefly expanded on his thoughts about artificial intelligence, framing it as part of a long-running effort to replicate human thinking through machines.

"It would take too long to go deeply into what I think about AI, but we've been trying to create a brain," Wozniak said. "Is there a way we can duplicate a routine a trillion times and have it work like a brain? AI is one of those attempts."

His comments came at a time when AI adoption is accelerating across industries, reshaping hiring practices, and raising concerns about automation-driven layoffs. For many graduates, the technology represents both opportunity and risk as companies increasingly integrate AI tools into daily operations.

A DIFFERENT REACTION THAN OTHER COMMENCEMENT SPEECHES

Wozniak’s warm reception stood in contrast to other high profile AI related commencement appearances in recent weeks. Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and real estate executive Gloria Caulfield were both met with boos when discussing artificial intelligence at separate graduation ceremonies.

The mixed reactions highlight a growing divide over how AI is being communicated to young job seekers, especially as economic uncertainty and workforce disruption remain major concerns.

GRADUATES ENTER A SHIFTING JOB MARKET

Artificial intelligence is now central to hiring decisions, workplace automation, and skill expectations. Companies are increasingly using AI to streamline operations, while also reducing roles tied to tasks that can be automated.

The result has been a growing sense of instability for entry level workers, who are stepping into a job market where traditional career paths are being rewritten in real time.

"THINK DIFFERENT" ADVICE FOR THE FUTURE

Wozniak also reflected on his time at Apple and offered students guidance rooted in creativity and independence, encouraging them to avoid conformity as they begin their careers.

"You should always try to think different," he said. "Don't follow the same steps as a million other people. Think, is there something I can do a little different?"

As graduates face an uncertain economic and technological future, his message centered on adaptability, originality, and the ability to stand out in an increasingly automated world.