A collaborative initiative involving Houston Community College (HCC) and several other community colleges has received substantial backing from Microsoft to enhance artificial intelligence (AI) education in the United States and develop a highly skilled AI workforce.

The National Applied AI Consortium, which includes HCC, Miami Dade College, and the Maricopa County Community College District, is dedicated to providing leadership, training, and guidance to community colleges and industry partners in developing AI professionals nationwide.

Microsoft's support for the consortium encompasses the provision of industry-aligned AI curriculum and training opportunities for college faculty. 

“We are thrilled to be working with our fellow college partners and Microsoft in AI education and workforce development,” said HCC Chancellor Margaret Ford-Fisher, Ed.D. “Together, we are advancing education for students currently enrolled in HCC’s bachelor’s degree program in Applied AI and Robotics.”

Through the Microsoft Learn for Educators initiative, consortium colleges gain access to a ready-to-teach curriculum and teaching materials aligned with industry-recognized Microsoft Certifications. These certifications cover a range of skills, from cloud computing to AI. Educators benefit from teaching guides, educator forums, lab environments, and official Microsoft courseware.

“We are working to make AI education more available and accessible so that more people can benefit from the power of new generative AI capabilities,” said Kate Behncken, corporate vice president and global head of Microsoft Philanthropies. “Support for the consortium will help colleges equip students and educators with the innovative AI skills needed for many jobs across various industries.”

For more information about HCC’s AI program, click here.