Page 94 - South Mississippi Living - August, 2024

94 | August 2024
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
Enhancing the Workforce with AI
A standout feature of MAIN, headquartered at MGCCC, is its
focus on professional development
and upskilling the workforce. In accomplishing this MAIN provides
free AI courses to the entire workforce including K-12 teachers. Participating in these courses will provide professional development and continuing education units (CEUs). In addition, these courses are available for administrators, faculty, and staff at MAIN partner institutions. Classes began on July 1, with ongoing access throughout the academic year.
Dr. Kollin Napier, the director of MAIN and an MGCCC employee, leads the courses. “We are thrilled to offer Mississippi the opportunity to gain valuable insights into AI through these free courses,” said Dr. Napier. “We
are committed to providing our state’s educators and workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in this digital economy.”
Curriculum and Course Structure
The courses, developed in
partnership with Intel utilizing their Digital Readiness AI for Workforce program, are designed to meet the increasing demand for AI skills in Mississippi’s workforce. MAIN has adapted this curriculum for MGCCC’ s online course platform, Canvas.
story and photo courtesy of MGCCC
Participants will delve into fundamental AI concepts, historical evolution,
current trends, future implications, and practical applications. The curriculum also includes hands-on activities, discussions, ethical considerations, and societal impacts. One of the highlights of the course is the use of “no-code” tools, which means that neither prior programming skills nor a background in computer science is required, making the course accessible to a broad audience.
A Vision for the Future
Dr. Napier emphasizes the vision of this state-wide AI initiative. “Empowering the workforce at all levels with AI skills enhances professional growth, fuels innovation, and propels Mississippi’s economic development,” he noted.
MAIN’s commitment to AI
education represents a significant
stride towards a more technologically advanced workforce in Mississippi. By providing AI education to educators and the workforce, Mississippi is positioning itself at the forefront of
the digital economy, ensuring that all Mississippians are well-prepared for
the future. MAIN is more than just an educational initiative; it is a bold step towards a future where AI literacy is a fundamental skill for all, driving growth and innovation across Mississippi.
For more information on the AI courses available, visit mgccc.edu/workforce-ai-courses.