The future is already here: RCCC connects to artificial intelligence – Salisbury Post

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By joining the new network of artificial intelligence (AI) incubators, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College provides graduates with rapidly evolving skills in an emerging market.

SALISBURY — Rowan-Cabarrus Community College joins the ranks of schools participating in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Incubator Network, an initiative to design and build AI incubator labs across the United States.

“There is no doubt that the artificial intelligence job market is growing rapidly as demand for products using this technology increases,” said Rowan-Cabarrus, Dean of Technical Programs, Zackary Hubbard. “Creating a workforce of people with the technical skills to work in these roles will be critical as the field continues to grow.”

Hubbard indicated that many likely view the AI ​​as a robotic device. However, AI is implemented in computers and machines designed to perform tasks that mimic the problem-solving and decision-making abilities of humans. Here are examples of everyday applications:

• Parking assistance functions on motor vehicles.
• Digital assistants like Amazon Alexa.
• Products such as popular robot vacuum cleaners.

“In most cases, AI is a form of computer programming,” Hubbard said. “Engineers design code to help with decision making. You see it in industry, healthcare and manufacturing. It’s the idea of ​​using these massive data sets to improve decision-making in these companies. They may be able to automate a certain part of their production line or try to improve the quality of a product they manufacture.

For students, the incubator initiative will provide them with real-world experience.

“When a student goes through the case studies and activities, they leave us with real industry experience,” Hubbard said. “Students could progress to a role of programmer or programmer analyst. Instead of just understanding the cogs and bolts, they will also have this perspective on AI”

According to Hubbard, preparing students for this world takes a different perspective on teaching.

“Generally, AI is something that’s conceptual in nature, not a skill,” Hubbard said. “What this program does is try to take the concept of AI and equip students with the skills they need to use it…it’s not a specific class, but it’s is a complete overhaul of computer programming and development.”

The AI ​​Incubator Network was launched earlier this year by Intel, Dell Technologies and the American Association of Community Colleges to increase the teaching of artificial intelligence in community colleges and technical schools by equipping graduates skills needed for the growing AI job market.

By joining the initiative, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College will partner with member colleges that collaborate and share resources on educational pathways, economic development opportunities, student engagement, and AI best practices. . Access to training and curriculum through the AI ​​incubator network allows Rowan-Cabarrus to integrate AI education into its current computer programming stream. The college’s information technology curriculum includes computer programming, networking, cybersecurity, and business computer support.

“As the demand for an AI-ready workforce continues to grow, we know it’s important for us to be able to train our students for the next generation of jobs,” said Dr. Carol S. Spalding, president of Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. “We are grateful to Intel, Dell and the American Association of Community Colleges for providing access to excellent resources that allow us to integrate AI education into our courses. Our goal is always to help our students learn essential skills for competitive employment opportunities. »

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