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 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.
Our Courses
Charter Oak State College has partnered with Google to offer two AI courses – one for basic AI Literacy and one for more advanced Fluency - at no cost to Connecticut residents through the CT AI Academy. 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. Thes free, fully online courses in either a 5-week or 6-week format will help you build practical AI skills you can immediately apply at work and in everyday life. Both courses offer a Google certificate upon completion.
Google AI Essentials is an introductory, non-technical course designed for beginners who want to understand and start using AI tools in everyday work. It covers key concepts like generative AI, prompt writing, and responsible AI use through practical examples. This course is ideal for individuals with little to no prior experience who want a quick, accessible entry point into AI.
Choose this if you're looking to build foundational knowledge and confidence using AI right away.
- Duration: 5 weeks
- Time Commitment: 2–3 hours per week
- Delivery: Fully online and asynchronous
- Support: Instructor-facilitated with optional live sessions
- Cost: Free for Connecticut residents (age 18+)
The Google AI Professional Certificate is a more comprehensive program that builds deeper, job-ready AI skills through hands-on projects and structured learning. It goes beyond basics to cover topics like AI workflows, data handling, and applied use cases in professional settings. This certificate is best suited for learners who already have some familiarity with digital tools and want to develop practical, career-oriented AI expertise.
Choose this if you're ready to move past fundamentals and apply AI skills in real-world scenarios.
- Duration: 6 weeks
- Time Commitment: 2–3 hours per week
- Delivery: Fully online and asynchronous
- Support: Instructor-facilitated with optional live sessions
- Cost: Free for Connecticut residents (age 18+)
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.