AI Training Initiative to Propel Blue Economy Workforce Development
New AI training initiative at the University of Hawaiʻi aims to boost workforce development in the Blue Economy.
Key Points
- • University of Hawaiʻi launches AI training initiative for Blue Economy workforce development.
- • Project funded by a $300,000 NSF grant to enhance sustainable ocean research.
- • Collaboration includes Texas A&M and Morgan State University, focusing on marine resource management.
- • Training includes hands-on workshops and access to advanced AI computing resources.
The University of Hawaiʻi is launching a significant new initiative aimed at enhancing workforce development in the Blue Economy through targeted artificial intelligence (AI) training. This program, which is part of a broader Blue Economy project, will focus on critical areas such as marine resource management, renewable energy, sustainable fisheries, and coastal sustainability. Funded by an 18-month, $300,000 grant from the National AI Research Resource pilot program, the project aims to strengthen Hawaiʻi's role in these vital sectors while preparing a skilled workforce capable of addressing future economic and environmental challenges.
The collaboration involves multiple academic institutions, including Texas A&M University at College Station (the lead institution), Texas A&M Galveston, and Morgan State University, showcasing a unified effort in harnessing AI for the Blue Economy. Sean Cleveland, acting director of research cyberinfrastructure for UH Information Technology Services, underscored the importance of this initiative by stating, "By leveraging national AI resources and engaging coastal communities, we’re not only strengthening Hawaiʻi’s role in the Blue Economy—we’re building a skilled, resilient workforce."
Participants in the program will have access to NSF-funded computing systems such as Jetstream2 and Texas A&M’s computing resources, receiving hands-on training, lectures, and workshops. David Y. Hancock, director for advanced cyberinfrastructure at IU, highlighted that the Blue Economy project exemplifies how various NSF resources can enhance research efforts. The initiative aims to utilize AI tools to help researchers analyze ocean data and make informed, sustainable decisions, ultimately supporting economic growth in the region.