Integrating Artificial Intelligence Skills into Technician Education for Computing and Manufacturing Careers

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) reshapes technical occupations, two-year colleges play a critical role in ensuring that computing and advanced manufacturing technicians are prepared for AI-influenced workplaces. This project will develop eight stackable, employer-validated AI microcredentials and integrate them into existing Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree pathways in computer technology and advanced manufacturing. This effort is expected to serve approximately 350 students annually. The significance of this approach lies in its modularity. AI competencies will be embedded within the existing curriculum, equipping technicians with the applied AI skills needed to succeed in computing and advanced manufacturing workplaces while also producing portable, digitally verified credentials that employers can immediately recognize and verify. The project will leverage existing industry partnerships, including relationships with CompTIA, Cisco, and members of the National Applied AI Consortium, to align credentials with emerging national frameworks. Beyond credentialing, the project will build faculty capacity, expand AI-infused coursework to rural learners and dual-enrolled high school students, and generate a replicable framework for embedding AI into technician education. Through curriculum development that engages employers, this project will create a two-tier framework of stackable AI modules and integrate them into degree pathways in computer technology and advanced manufacturing. Tier 1 foundational modules (AI Literacy, Data Essentials, Workplace Applications, Responsible Use) will build baseline competencies for all students. Tier 2 applied modules (Predictive Maintenance, Cybersecurity Defense, Data-Driven Decision Making, Intelligent Automation) will integrate directly into specialized degree options in each pathway. Faculty capacity will be strengthened through annual summer AI institutes, a sustained community of practice, and peer coaching. An independent external evaluation will document the effectiveness of the curriculum, faculty outcomes, and implementation across sites. Dissemination through ATE Central and national and regional conferences will provide community colleges with a replicable framework for using a modular approach to integrate AI into curricula. This project is funded by the Advanced Technological Education program, which focuses on the education of technicians for the advanced-technology fields that drive the nation's economy. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria.