Newman University launches artificial intelligence institute to close education and workforce gap

Newman University in Wichita, Kansas, has launched the Newman Institute for A.I. and the Common Good, a new effort to advance AI education across the state. The initiative arrives as surveys show a sharp divide between AI use and the skills needed to apply it effectively in the workplace.

Closing a persistent training gap

A national report cited by the university found that 88 percent of organizations have adopted AI in some form, but fewer than 10 percent have integrated it into how work gets done. A regional survey revealed that while 81 percent of respondents use AI tools, 68 percent still need AI training. The institute is designed to close that gap.

How the institute plans to help

David Cochran, director of the institute, said the work responds to practical questions people are already asking about the technology.

"What we discovered is that people really want to discuss how do I use this. Not only how do I use this, how do I do it well? How do I make sure it doesn't make me dumber? That's one of the key questions we have. What do I do for my kids? How do I help them think about it? We deal with all of these things," Cochran said.

A growing Kansas network

Newman University said it is partnering with numerous industry leaders and building an AI alliance network with other Kansas schools. The network includes Garden City Community College and will expand to include additional institutions.

Why this matters for educators

The training gap hits schools directly, where teachers and administrators need to use AI tools responsibly and guide students. Practical resources like an AI Learning Path for Teachers can help build those skills. The new Kansas institute and its partner network plan to tackle these questions at scale, creating opportunities for educators across the state to gain the training that surveys show they want.