Wisconsin Launches Free AI Skills Training for Residents

MADISON, Wis.—The Universities of Wisconsin and UW Credit Union have jointly announced the launch of the AI Skills Access Passport (ASAP), a free online video series designed to provide Wisconsinites with a foundational understanding of artificial intelligence (AI). The program aims to equip adult learners with the knowledge to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology.

What is the AI Skills Access Passport?

The ASAP series is an accessible guide to AI, teaching participants how AI functions and its potential applications in everyday life. It is geared towards individuals with a basic understanding of AI who are interested in learning more about the technological changes occurring across various sectors, including education, business and government [1].

A Statewide Initiative

“As the Universities of Wisconsin look to prioritize AI education, through dedicated majors, AI-literacy integration, focused AI faculty talent recruitment and industry partnerships, we as well seek to do our part to extend that knowledge outward – to provide all Wisconsinites with a foundational knowledge about AI that they can choose to build on,” said Universities of Wisconsin President Jay Rothman. “This learning opportunity is another example of how the Universities of Wisconsin serve the state.”

Course Structure and Content

The online course comprises seven concise videos, each approximately two minutes in length. These videos cover fundamental aspects of AI, including its functionality, current uses, and associated opportunities and challenges [1]. The series is designed as an introductory resource for anyone seeking to grasp the basics of this rapidly developing technology.

Partnership with UW Credit Union

Sponsored by UW Credit Union, the video series is hosted on a Universities of Wisconsin website that also serves as a central hub for additional AI courses, programs, and educational resources available across the state’s 13 public universities. UW Credit Union, serving over 375,000 members, sees this as an extension of its commitment to economic mobility.

“UW Credit Union’s commitment to building economic mobility extends well beyond financial services,” said Director of Financial Inclusion & Community Engagement at UWCU, Steph Harrill Kyle. “As a strategic partner to the Universities of Wisconsin, we share the goal of building informed, capable, and empowered communities throughout Wisconsin. This free educational resource is for anyone looking to understand how AI works, so that if they choose to use it, they can do so safely and with confidence.”

Development and Expertise

The course was developed by the Universities of Wisconsin’s Office of Online and Professional Learning Resources, with support from Emily Laird, AI Integration Technologist at UW-Stout [1].

“AI will influence every sector and every community, regardless of age or background,” Laird said. “ASAP provides the shared foundation people need to use AI safely and confidently, helping build a stronger, more prepared state.”

Wisconsin’s Growing AI Ecosystem

The launch of ASAP coincides with broader developments in AI education within the Universities of Wisconsin system. UW-Eau Claire recently introduced new artificial intelligence majors, offering both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science programs [2]. UW-Stout faculty are also exploring the use of AI in filmmaking, and a multi-campus internship program involving students from UW-Eau Claire, UW-River Falls, and UW-Stout is underway with Royal Credit Union to explore AI-driven business solutions [2].

Accessing the Course

The free online learning sessions are now available at wisconsin.edu/asap.