Google Launches Free AI Certification Program for Virginia Job Seekers
Virginia launches free AI certification courses in partnership with Google.
Key Points
- • Google partners with Virginia to offer free AI certifications.
- • Program aims to train up to 10,000 residents amid rising unemployment.
- • Courses cover AI fundamentals and practical applications.
- • Funding is entirely provided by Google, without costs to taxpayers.
In a move to strengthen the job market, Virginia's Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced a partnership with Google to provide free AI certification courses aimed at bolstering workforce skills among residents. This initiative, described as an 'AI career launchpad,' is designed to assist up to 10,000 Virginians at a time as unemployment rates rise in the state.
Virginia has recently seen an uptick in unemployment claims, with approximately 20,400 continuing claims and a notable 6.1 percent increase in new claims from the previous week. The initiative comes in response to significant job losses, particularly amongst federal workers, prompting Youngkin to launch a job website earlier this year focused on helping residents find new employment opportunities.
The courses, which will be funded entirely by Google, include beginner-friendly training on AI fundamentals and practical applications, alongside boot camps and partnerships with local community colleges. Nicole Overley, commissioner of Virginia Works, highlighted the importance of AI proficiency in today's job market, insisting that these courses will enhance the competitiveness of Virginians. Google’s head of partnerships, Bronagh Friel, expressed pride in the collaboration and commitment to fostering economic opportunities in the region.