FSU College of Business and Google launch free AI-powered management training
Florida State University is partnering with Google to offer complimentary access to the Google People Management Essentials certificate. It's a short, self-paced program that blends core management skills with practical AI use cases you can apply at work the same day.
Led by FSU's College of Business in collaboration with Information Technology Services, the initiative gives business students a clear edge: leadership fundamentals, plus hands-on time with modern AI tools. FSU is among the first institutions in the country to offer this program.
What the course covers
People Management Essentials is an eight-hour, self-paced course built by the Google School for Leaders and taught by Google experts. It focuses on the skills every new or aspiring manager needs and that experienced managers can sharpen.
- Build high-performing teams and clear norms
- Set goals and follow through
- Coach for growth and run effective 1:1s
- Invest in your own development as a manager
Where AI fits
A standout feature is guided practice with tools like Gemini and NotebookLM. The goal: weave AI into everyday management workflows without adding overhead.
- Draft SMART goals and OKR candidates, then refine with your team
- Prepare 1:1 agendas, summarize notes, and track follow-ups
- Create project plans, risk checklists, and stakeholder maps
- Customize updates and emails for different audiences in minutes
If you're new to these tools, you can get a quick overview of Gemini here: Google Gemini.
Why this matters for managers
"We are excited about our partnership with Google and the benefits it will offer our students," said Michael D. Hartline, dean of the College of Business. He emphasized the college's focus on graduating students with relevant, in-demand skills as AI reshapes work and society.
Brian Glaser, chief learning officer at Google, put it simply: great managers build great teams. By sharing core management principles, Google aims to help leaders and their teams thrive in any organization.
Access and next steps
FSU business students can learn more through the FSU College of Business. The course is provided at no cost and is self-paced, so students can complete it on their schedule.
If you lead a team and want to build a similar learning path, explore role-specific AI courses and certifications here: AI courses by job.
Your membership also unlocks:
