California Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced a partnership with several tech-sector giants to give students and teachers in the state’s high schools and colleges access to artificial intelligence tools and training.
Newsom said on Aug. 7 that the state will work with Google, Adobe, IBM, and Microsoft to “train California’s workforce for a wide range of jobs in AI” while making it “easier for students to develop the skills they need to move from the classroom to the workforce.”
“AI is the future – and we must stay ahead of the game by ensuring our students and workforce are prepared to lead the way,” said Newsom in a statement. “Fair access to next-generation workforce training tools is one important strategy that California is using to build economic opportunities for all Californians.”
Specifically, the agreement will help modernize curriculum and create networking and internship opportunities for students in community colleges, the California State University system, and high schools.
The move is in-part driven by the state’s leading role in being the homebase for 33 of the top 50 AI companies in the world,” officials said, adding that the state’s status makes it “critical that California continues to create economic opportunities for our students and integrate these partnerships into educational systems statewide.”
Partnering with the four companies also aims to help solidify the state as a leader in innovation, officials added.
“We will continue to work with schools and colleges to ensure safe and ethical use of emerging technologies across the state, while emphasizing critical thinking and analytical skills,” said Newsom.
Under the agreement, Adobe will expand access to its generative AI tools as well as providing AI literacy training. Google will similarly provide online AI training services while also partnering with government agencies across California to “transform citizen services.”
IBM will expand access to its SkillsBuild platform which provides free training in AI, data science, and cybersecurity, while Microsoft will continue to deliver a “comprehensive bootcamp learning series” focused on AI, cybersecurity, and Microsoft Copilot with a focus on training faculty.