PennWest is preparing students, faculty, staff, and community members for the future of work by offering new training in artificial intelligence (AI) through a partnership with Google. 

Beginning this semester, the PennWest Center for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies will manage access to the new Google AI Essentials course, part of Google’s AI for Education Accelerator. The course provides no-cost training in AI fundamentals, effective prompting, and responsible use of AI tools.  

Participants will gain practical skills to study more efficiently, strengthen their career readiness, and apply AI in projects ranging from resumes and job interviews to innovative solutions in their chosen fields. 

PennWest has secured 500 free licenses, ensuring broad access for students, employees, and community partners. Licenses will be distributed and tracked by the AI Center, with coursework delivered through the Coursera platform. 

The PennWest Center for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, which launched in spring 2025, serves as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and workforce development. The center is designed to support both the PennWest community and regional partners by providing training, research, and applied learning in rapidly evolving technologies. 

In fall 2025, PennWest launched a minor in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to bolster workforce preparedness. 

“At PennWest, we are committed to equipping our students with both timeless critical-thinking skills and cutting-edge tools like AI,” said Dr. Camille Dempsey, the center’s director. “Through our Center for Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, PennWest will not only prepare our graduates for the future of work but also extend opportunities to our regional communities.” 

The initiative is part of a larger collaboration between Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE) and Google to expand AI and workforce training across the commonwealth. PennWest is proud to play a leading role in this effort, ensuring western Pennsylvania has access to the latest skills and tools for the evolving economy. 

For more information on the Google AI Essentials course, email CenterForAI@pennwest.edu.