As AI Becomes More Common in the Workforce, Classrooms Should Follow Suit

By: Jacqueline Smith, J.D Published: July, 12.

How Chandler-Gilbert Community College Is building an Inclusive Future for AI

Chandler-Gilbert Community College (CGCC) is pioneering an educational initiative that is already reshaping the future of the state’s workforce. Launching the nation's first associate degree (AAS) and certificate of completion (CCL) in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning shows CGCC's commitment to Arizona's economic growth and competitiveness.  

The rise of artificial intelligence is both exhilarating and daunting. AI’s potential to transform entire industries, streamline processes and automate repetitive tasks, augment human abilities and enhance daily life is immense. Yet, AI technologies also stir uncertainty and apprehension about job displacement, the loss of human interaction, technological divides and more. CGCC and the Maricopa County Community Colleges play a crucial role making sure that Arizonans are prepared to navigate and benefit from the AI revolution.  

A Trust-Building Platform

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) has long been celebrated for its accessibility, affordability, and commitment to serving students across Maricopa County. MCCCD caters to a wide array of students, from dual enrollment, to high school graduates, working professionals looking to reskill or upskill, as well as lifelong learners. CGCC, situated in the rapidly growing Chandler-Gilbert area, embodies this spirit of inclusivity and innovation.

By offering AI classes tailored to various skill levels, CGCC demystifies the technology and makes it approachable for everyone. CGCC's AI curriculum (in partnership with Intel) is designed not just to teach technical skills but also to foster an understanding of AI’s ethical implications and real-world applications, thus building trust and competence.

Bridging the Skills Gap and Fostering Inclusive Innovations

MCCCD is a recognized leader in Arizona’s workforce development. From TSMC, to Intel, to Boeing, the need for AI literacy spans multiple workforce sectors. CGCC’s AI programs address this need by providing targeted training that aligns with local industry demands. This ensures that students are not only equipped with theoretical knowledge but also with practical skills that can be directly applied in their chosen fields.

MCCCD is uniquely positioned to collaborate with local businesses and industry leaders. CGCC has harnessed this opportunity, forging partnerships with Intel and others that help tailor its AI curriculum to the evolving needs of Arizona’s growing economy. These collaborations ensure that the training provided is relevant and that students graduate with skills that meet the current and future demands of the job market.

AI education is crucial in a state as diverse as Arizona. CGCC’s commitment to inclusivity means that individuals from various backgrounds, whether they're returning veterans, immigrant communities, or first-generation college students, all have access to the tools they need to thrive in an AI-driven world. 

A Model for the Future

As we look to the future, the role of the Maricopa County Community College District in technological education will become increasingly important. Chandler-Gilbert Community College’s AI initiative is a model of how local institutions can drive innovation while remaining deeply connected to their communities. Equipping Arizona’s workforce with AI skills and promoting an understanding of AI’s ethical dimensions, CGCC is preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, trust and competence are paramount. CGCC’s efforts in making AI education accessible and relevant stand as a testament to the transformative power of community colleges. As Arizona continues to grow and diversify, initiatives like these will play a critical role in ensuring that the benefits of AI are shared broadly and that all members of the community are empowered to participate in the technological future.

In essence, Chandler-Gilbert Community College is not just teaching AI; it’s building a foundation of trust and opportunity for Arizona’s workforce and community.

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Jacqueline Smith, J.D., is the governing board member of Maricopa Community Colleges District 1.