OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is once again in headlines after a report claimed that some of his colleagues believe he lacks deep technical expertise in programming and machine learning, despite leading one of the world’s most influential AI companies. According to a report by The New Yorker, several engineers and insiders who have worked with Altman said he does not have extensive experience in coding or machine learning. Some claimed that he has, at times, misused or confused basic technical terms while discussing AI systems. “Altman is not a technical savant—according to many in his orbit, he lacks extensive expertise in coding or machine learning. Multiple engineers recalled him misusing or confusing basic technical terms,” the report said, presenting a different image of Altman from his public persona as a leading voice in artificial intelligence.
Sam Altman built OpenAI using others money and talent: Report
While he is widely seen as a key figure shaping the future of AI, insiders quoted in the report described him more as a strategist and business leader than a technical expert. Sam Altman, who left a computer science programme at Stanford University before completing his degree, has built OpenAI into one of the most valuable AI companies globally. The report notes that his success has relied heavily on bringing together talent, funding, and partnerships rather than direct technical contributions.“He built OpenAI, in large part, by harnessing other people’s money and technical talent. This doesn’t make him unique. It makes him a businessman,” the report stated.
Former OpenAI researchers on Sam Altman’s pattern
Former OpenAI researcher Carroll Wainwright told The New Yorker that Altman has a pattern of setting up structures that appear to limit his power, only to later change or remove them. “He sets up structures that, on paper, constrain him in the future. But then, when the future comes and it comes time to be constrained, he does away with whatever the structure was,” Wainwright said.Other sources cited in the report suggested that Altman’s strength lies in his ability to align different groups — including engineers, investors, and policymakers — even when their priorities may differ. Some described this as a skill that helps him navigate complex situations and maintain control over the company’s direction.Neither Sam Altman nor OpenAI has not publicly responded to the claims in the report.
