Texas State Technical College launches AI specialist certificate
Texas State Technical College will launch an AI implementation specialist certificate program in fall 2027, funded by a $198,000 state grant from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.
The program will teach students to integrate AI into platforms and digital tools. The curriculum covers AI data systems, cloud infrastructure, programming languages and vision computing.
Emanuel Palacios, TSTC's Dean of Digital Transformation, said the program will avoid chasing AI trends since the technology evolves faster than traditional IT. Program Director Eric Castro said a third-party content provider will keep course materials current as AI advances.
Building faculty expertise and partnerships
TSTC staff have joined the National Applied AI Consortium, which provides free faculty training, curriculum resources and partnerships with companies including Intel, Amazon Web Services and Microsoft.
The college is also partnering with Beth Muturi, an AI instructor from Miami-Dade College's School of Engineering and Technology. Muturi said academia is adapting to AI by upskilling faculty and developing better strategies.
For educators looking to understand how institutions are incorporating AI into their programs, AI for Education resources cover curriculum development and teaching approaches. Those interested in the technical foundations can explore AI Coding Courses that complement programming-focused certifications.
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