San José opens free AI training for residents through public library
San José launched its first free AI workshops last week at a new civic education center, marking an effort to teach residents how to use AI tools in daily life. The city partnered with OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic to offer the training through the San José Public Library as part of its AI for All initiative.
The program follows an earlier effort to train city staff on AI use. Mayor Matt Mahan said the goal is to ensure "every resident benefits" as AI reshapes work and daily routines.
What the workshops cover
The first sessions on April 8 focused on two groups: seniors learning to use AI for everyday tasks and job seekers incorporating AI into applications. The city plans additional workshops to build what officials call "AI literacy."
Mattie Zazueta, who works in OpenAI's global affairs department, said the initiative addresses a core problem. "AI can save people time and make everyday tasks easier, but only if people know how to use it," Zazueta said.
AI already reshaping city operations
San José has already integrated AI into municipal work. The city added AI to its traffic signal system and reported a 20% increase in transit bus speeds earlier this year.
Other applications include improving road safety and streamlining housing permit processing. The city is testing how AI can solve operational problems while building public understanding of the technology.
For educators and training professionals, this model shows how institutions can provide structured AI education to broad populations. Learn more about AI for Education and AI for Government initiatives.
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