In partnership with Miami Dade College (MDC) and Houston Community College, the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD), is proud to join the National Applied Artificial Intelligence Consortium (NAAIC), a groundbreaking initiative that aims to foster the growth of technician-level artificial intelligence (AI) professionals across the nation. Led by MDC, the consortium will receive $2.8 million from the National Science Foundation Advanced Technological Education program to develop and implement technician-level AI courses, certificates, and degree programs.
"We are proud to join the NAAIC initiative," said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, Chancellor of MCCCD. "Collaboration among the three institutions will allow us to bridge the AI skills gap and develop transformative learning opportunities for our students. By embedding advanced AI training into our curriculum, MCCCD will equip the next generation of professionals with the experience needed to drive innovation and spur economic growth, creating both a national and global impact."
The field of AI is rapidly transforming industries, businesses, and society. However, there is a critical shortage of skilled AI professionals who can apply AI solutions to real-world problems. Additionally, there also is a scarcity of two-year colleges offering AI programs with qualified instructors. To address this gap, NAAIC will serve as a national reference and resource hub for AI education and training, providing leadership, guidance, and support for community colleges that want to develop or enhance their AI courses and certificate and degree programs.
The ultimate goal of NAAIC is to advance the education and training of a diverse and highly skilled technical workforce in the field of AI and prepare students for rewarding careers in AI-related fields. By equipping students with AI knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to excel in the workforce of today and tomorrow, the consortium will contribute to the economic and social well-being of individuals, communities, and the nation.
"As we embark on this journey with the NAAIC initiative, we are not just preparing students for the future; we are shaping the future itself," said Gabriela Rosu, CGCC Dean of Instruction. “By placing innovation and AI at the forefront of our workforce and college faculty, we empower educators to lead the way in transforming our educational landscape. The collaboration with Miami Dade College and Houston Community College will ensure that our students are equipped with cutting-edge skills, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow and thrive in an ever-evolving technological world."
In 2020, MCCCD partnered with Intel and the Arizona Commerce Authority to launch Arizona’s first AI certificate and degree program. MCCCD currently offers AI and Machine Learning associate degree and certificate programs at Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) and Estrella Mountain Community College. Pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission, MCCCD will launch a Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in fall 2025 at CGCC.
NAAIC already counts on an expansive network of industry partners like Intel, AWS, Microsoft, Dell, IBM, and NVIDIA, among others, that will provide AI resources to consortium members. NAAIC will also engage a National AI Business and Industry Leadership Team (BILT) to identify the current and emerging needs of the AI workforce and ensure that the curriculum and competencies of community colleges align with industry standards and expectations.
Click here to learn more about the NAAIC and the forthcoming initiatives and resources for community colleges.