This isn’t just about coding; it’s about empowering communities and driving inclusive progress. The initiative recognizes that innovation thrives when diverse perspectives are at the table, shaping the technology that shapes our lives.
At the heart of this movement is the Alliance for AI and Machine Learning, a collaborative effort co-led by Calvin Briggs of the Southern STEM Center and Dr. Majed Dweik of Alabama A&M University. Their vision? To weave AI education into the fabric of Alabama state educational institutions and fortify the state’s talent pipeline.
Drake State Community & Technical College is a key participant, joining 13 other HBCUs in this ambitious endeavor. Drake State’s commitment is clear: to equip students not only for today’s jobs but also to lead in the innovation economy of tomorrow. You can learn more about Drake State Community & Technical College on their website: Drake State Community & Technical College .
This transformative initiative has garnered significant support from Amazon Web Services (AWS) through the AWS–Machine Learning University Educators Consortium and Transformation Alliance. AWS recognizes the critical need for industry-aligned AI and machine learning education.
Margie Vela, Senior Program Manager-Machine Learning University, AWS, emphasizes the importance of inclusivity: “Industry-aligned AI and machine learning teaching and research are essential to preparing the workforce of the future and ensuring that innovation benefits everyone.”
The implications of this initiative extend far beyond the classroom. By providing cutting-edge AI and machine learning education, the program empowers students to tackle real-world challenges and drive progress across Alabama and beyond.
Lydia Owens, Business, Computer Science, and Engineering Technologies Division Chair at Drake State Community College, sums it up perfectly: “Through this partnership with AWSAWS and the Machine Learning University Educators Consortium and Transformation Alliance, we are opening doors to cutting-edge AI and machine learning education that will empower our students to create solutions for real-world challenges and drive inclusive progress across Alabama and beyond.”
Participants in the program will gain the skills to develop algorithms, design AI tools tailored to community needs, and pursue careers in the ever-expanding tech sector. This injection of diverse talent promises to enrich the field and ensure that AI benefits all segments of society.
The Alabama HBCU alliance, powered by AWS, represents a bold step towards a more equitable and innovative future. By fostering a diverse tech talent pipeline, this initiative not only strengthens Alabama’s position in machine learning education and research but also sets a powerful example for the nation. The algorithms of tomorrow will be written by a more inclusive and representative cohort of innovators, and that’s a win for everyone.
