The scramble for AI talent is real — and expensive. This talk helps people ops and engineering leaders make clear, practical choices about growing AI capability: when to train your existing DevOps teams, when to hire, and how to combine both without draining morale or money. You’ll get a straightforward decision framework and repeatable tactics: short, role-focused learning roadmaps that link to product goals; lightweight apprenticeship programs that pair practicing engineers with AI-savvy mentors; and retention levers that protect your investment.