Empowering Connecticut's Workforce with In-Demand AI Skills
In today's evolving workforce, artificial intelligence is transforming how we work, think, and create. Whether you're a job seeker, a working professional, or simply curious about AI, the Connecticut AI Academy at Charter Oak State College equips individuals and organizations with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to use and apply artificial intelligence responsibly and effectively.
Through flexible online and hybrid courses, the Academy supports students, educators, school and district leaders, small business owners, nonprofit professionals, and lifelong learners, offering a life-changing opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed in an AI-driven world no matter your current skill level or experience with AI.
Why AI Skills Matter
- 75% of knowledge workers already use AI at work.
- 66% of leaders prioritize hiring candidates with AI skills.
- 52% of workers lack the confidence to use generative AI effectively.
The Connecticut AI Academy is here to change that. Gain the skills employers are looking for and future-proof your career.
Get Started Today
AI Essentials for Everyone
Charter Oak State College has partnered with Google to offer AI Essentials for Everyone at no cost to eligible Connecticut residents. This transformative initiative is designed to bridge the AI skills gap and empower Connecticut residents with the tools needed to thrive in the modern workplace. This free, fully online 5-week course helps you build practical AI skills you can immediately apply at work and in everyday life.
Why Take This Course?
- Build Essential AI Knowledge: Understand how AI works and how to use it responsibly and productively.
- Gain Real-World Skills: Learn prompt engineering, workplace AI applications, and strategies for evaluating AI outputs.
- Earn an Industry-Recognized Credential: Receive the Google AI Essentials Badge — a credential valued by employers nationwide.
Course Format
- Duration: 5 Weeks
- Time Commitment: 2–3 hours per week
- Delivery: Fully online and asynchronous
- Support: Instructor-guided with optional live sessions
- Cost: Free for Connecticut residents (age 18+)
No experience? No problem. This course is designed for beginners!
Coming Soon
- Teens AI Academy | Spark curiosity and build real-world skills as students explore how AI works, how to use it safely and responsibly, and how to apply it creatively across school and life.
- AI in K-12 Education for Teachers: Enhancing Instruction and Student Engagement | Confidently bring AI into your classroom with practical, age-appropriate strategies that save time, support differentiation, and deepen student engagement, while modeling ethical and responsible use.
- AI Leadership in K-12 Education: Policy, Professional Development, and Stakeholder Engagement | Lead your district’s AI journey with clarity and confidence—develop sound policy, design meaningful professional development, and build trust with staff, families, and the community.
- AI Foundations for Small Business: Understanding and Applying the Basics | Discover how AI can streamline operations, automate routine tasks, and unlock new efficiencies for your business or nonprofit.
- AI Strategy & Innovation for Small Business: Driving Smarter Decisions | Move beyond basic AI tools and learn how to leverage AI strategically, improving forecasting, decision-making, reporting, and long-term growth.
Interested in taking a course or considering one for your organization or school district? Submit an inquiry form to stay informed and be the first to access the AI Academy's newest course offerings when they become available.
Submit an Inquiry FormAbout Us
Charter Oak State College is Connecticut's leader in online education, dedicated to providing innovative workforce solutions that equip individuals with skills for the future. We’re proud to bring accessible AI education to residents across the state and beyond.