IBM built its Skills Network on the Open edX platform to meet global demand for hands-on technology training, particularly in AI. The initiative now reaches over 9 million learners through 150+ customized portals deployed across six data centers on four continents. IBM extended the platform substantially—building competition and event management systems (including hackathons with 176,000 participants), custom authoring tools, AI-assisted grading, and multi-tenant offerings for smaller organizations. The platform’s open architecture enabled deep integration with internal infrastructure while sustaining rapid development. IBM also leverages the platform for social impact work, supporting AI training for 2 million learners in underserved regions through NGO and government partnerships.
