Oklahoma State launches AI course for technical professionals
Oklahoma State University's College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology has launched an online course designed to teach engineers and technicians how to apply AI tools in their daily work. The course, AI Literacy and Application for Technical Professionals, is self-paced and available now through OSU CEAT Professional Development.
The curriculum examines core AI terminology and explores real-world use cases across Oklahoma industries including oil and gas, aerospace, banking and technology. Participants learn to evaluate where AI tools fit into their workflows, how to use them to improve productivity and decision-making, and how to implement AI responsibly.
Built with industry input
OSU CEAT Professional Development developed the course in collaboration with Oklahoma companies already using AI. Logan Shimmer, founder of Shimmer Labs and an OSU graduate, served as a subject-matter expert for curriculum design.
"AI is moving from a research curiosity to a daily tool on the job site, in the lab, and at the operator console," Shimmer said. "This course is built for the engineers and technicians who need to use it well, not just talk about it."
The course includes case studies from four Oklahoma AI companies:
- meerir - commercial drone operations and airspace integration
- Senslytics - AI for pipeline corrosion detection in oil and gas
- Quillify - automation of grant application processes
- Spirit Bank - AI governance and risk management in banking
What learners will do
One core learning outcome is the ability to analyze workplace tasks and identify where AI-supported tools could improve workflows. The course also covers governance and ethical considerations for AI deployment in professional settings.
Craig Mahaney, CEO of meerir, said the course addresses a real gap. "The questions surrounding commercial drone operations are no longer theoretical. They're being answered right now, by real teams, under real pressure," he said. "Equipping professionals with the ability to apply AI, not just understand it, is how better decisions get made."
Julio Tirado, director of internal audit for Spirit Bank, emphasized the governance angle. "The AI Literacy and Application for Technical Professionals program makes AI approachable, practical, and relevant for working professionals who need real solutions, not just buzzwords," he said.
For AI for IT & Development professionals, the course provides a structured way to understand how AI fits into technical workflows and decision-making processes in production environments.
Your membership also unlocks:
