Oregon State Employees Set for AI Training Initiative in 2025

Oregon state employees are poised to participate in a new initiative aimed at enhancing their skills in generative artificial intelligence (AI). Announced as a collaborative effort with InnovateUS, a nonprofit focused on public sector training, the program will offer approximately two hours of voluntary, self-paced lessons. This initiative seeks to improve public service by promoting the ethical and responsible use of AI technologies.

Governor Tina Kotek underscored the importance of this training during a press release, emphasizing the necessity for a secure and ethical implementation of AI within government sectors. “We need to ensure that AI technology is implemented responsibly,” she stated, reflecting on the increasing prominence of AI across various industries. Additionally, Oregon State Chief Information Officer Terrence Woods highlighted the rapid advancements in generative AI and its potential to facilitate effective governance, indicating a shift in how public services might operate in the future.

The training is part of a broader commitment to bolster workforce readiness vis-à-vis AI technologies. Although specific applications within Oregon's government are yet to be fully determined, the initiative aligns with the state’s newly approved 'Action Plan' for AI governance, which aims to strengthen privacy, security, and overall workforce preparedness for emerging technologies. Hope Hiebert, a government spokesperson, stated that the commitment to managing generative AI responsibly reflects the state’s proactive approach to governance.

As state employees prepare to engage in this training, the overall initiative marks a significant step in fostering knowledge around AI, aiming to equip the public sector with the essential skills to navigate and incorporate these technologies effectively.