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Southeastern Louisiana University Launches AI Training Program for Community

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  Published in Science and Technology on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 21:59 GMT by The Advocate

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Southeastern Louisiana University Tackles the AI Skills Gap with New Community Program

Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) is stepping up to address the growing demand for Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills in the region, launching a new introductory program aimed at equipping community members – regardless of their technical background – with foundational knowledge and practical experience. The initiative, announced recently, reflects a broader national trend of institutions recognizing the urgent need to democratize AI education and prepare the workforce for an increasingly automated future.

The program, officially titled "AI Foundations: A Community Exploration," is designed as a non-credit course open to anyone over 18 residing in Livingston Parish and Tangipahoa Parish. It's not intended to create expert AI developers but rather to foster general understanding of AI concepts, its applications across various industries, and the ethical considerations surrounding its use. The first session began November 20th, with plans for future iterations based on community interest and feedback.

Addressing a Critical Need: The AI Skills Shortage

The impetus behind SLU’s program stems from a significant skills gap in the field of Artificial Intelligence. While AI is rapidly transforming industries ranging from healthcare and finance to manufacturing and transportation, there's a severe shortage of qualified professionals who can develop, implement, and maintain these systems. This shortage isn't limited to highly specialized roles; even understanding how to effectively utilize existing AI tools requires new skills for many workers.

According to the article, local businesses have expressed concerns about this gap, highlighting the need for accessible training opportunities within the community. The program directly responds to that call, aiming to empower individuals with a basic understanding of AI principles and potentially open doors to new career paths or enhance their existing roles. As Dr. Elizabeth Mitchell-Ethridge, Dean of SLU’s College of Business, stated in the article, "We want to make sure our community is prepared for the future."

Course Content & Accessibility: A Focus on Practical Application

The “AI Foundations” program isn't a deep dive into complex algorithms. Instead, it focuses on demystifying AI through practical examples and hands-on activities. Topics covered include:

• Introduction to AI Concepts: Defining artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning in accessible terms.
• Applications of AI: Exploring how AI is being used across various industries, with specific examples relevant to the local economy (e.g., agriculture, healthcare).
• AI Tools & Platforms: Providing exposure to user-friendly AI tools and platforms that individuals can use without extensive coding knowledge. This likely includes exploring no-code/low-code AI solutions.
• Ethical Considerations: Addressing the ethical implications of AI, including bias in algorithms, data privacy concerns, and potential job displacement.
• Future Trends: Discussing emerging trends in AI and their potential impact on society.

The program’s accessibility is a key feature. Being non-credit means participants don't need to meet traditional academic requirements or enroll as students. The relatively low cost ($150) further removes financial barriers, making it accessible to a wider range of community members. SLU also emphasized its commitment to inclusivity and encourages participation from individuals with diverse backgrounds and skill levels.

SLU’s Broader Commitment to STEM Education & Community Engagement

This AI program aligns with Southeastern Louisiana University's broader strategic goals of strengthening STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and fostering community engagement. The university has been actively investing in expanding its technology-related offerings, recognizing the importance of preparing students for a rapidly evolving job market. The article mentions SLU’s existing computer science program and other initiatives aimed at promoting technological literacy within the region.

Furthermore, this initiative builds on SLU's history of serving as a vital resource for Livingston and Tangipahoa Parishes. The university has long been committed to providing educational opportunities and workforce development programs that benefit the local community. This AI program represents a proactive step in addressing a contemporary challenge and ensuring that residents have the skills needed to thrive in the future economy.

Looking Ahead: Expanding the Program & Addressing Future Needs

While the initial offering is focused on introductory concepts, SLU plans to evaluate the program's success and potentially expand its scope based on community feedback. This could include developing more advanced courses or specialized workshops tailored to specific industries. The university also recognizes that AI education needs to be an ongoing process, as the field continues to evolve at a rapid pace.

The launch of this “AI Foundations” program demonstrates SLU’s commitment to being a leader in regional workforce development and technological literacy. By providing accessible and practical AI training, Southeastern Louisiana University is empowering its community members to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the age of artificial intelligence. The success of this initial program will likely pave the way for further initiatives aimed at bridging the AI skills gap and fostering innovation within the region.

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