The Maricopa County Community College District has joined the National Applied Artificial Intelligence Consortium, an initiative aimed at fostering the national growth of technician-level artificial intelligence professionals.

With partners Miami Dade College and Houston Community College, 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, a press release explained. Miami Dade will lead the effort.

MCCCD Chancellor Dr. Steven R. Gonzales said in arelease the district is proud to join this initiative, adding that by embedding advanced AI training into its curriculum, MCCCD will equip its students with the experience to drive innovation and economic growth globally.

"Collaboration among the three institutions will allow us to bridge the AI skills gap and develop transformative learning opportunities for our students,” Gonzales said. 

The release detailed that while AI is transforming industries, there is a “critical” shortage of skilled AI professionals who can apply AI solutions and a scarcity of two-year colleges offering AI programs with qualified instructors.

To address this gap, NAAIC will serve as a reference and resource hub for AI education for community colleges that want to develop or enhance their AI courses and certificate and degree programs.

NAAIC aims to advance the education and training of a diverse and skilled technical workforce in AI and prepare students for careers in AI-related fields. By equipping students with AI knowledge, skills and hands-on experience needed to excel, the consortium will contribute to the economic and social well-being of all, the release stated.

Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s Dean of Instruction Gabriela Rosu said in the release they are both preparing students for and helping to shape the future. The collaboration with MDC and HCC will ensure students are equipped with “cutting-edge skills” to tackle challenges in an ever-evolving technological world.

“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,” Rosu said.

In 2020, MCCCD partnered with Intel and the Arizona Commerce Authority to launch Arizona’s first AI certificate and degree program. 

MCCCD offers AI and machine learning associate degrees and certificate programs at 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, according to the release.

Visit www.mdc.edu/entec/grants/naaic.aspx to learn more about the NAAIC and the forthcoming initiatives and resources for community colleges.