Maze Landing – Atlantic Cape Community College was awarded a $474,227 National Science Foundation grant on June 17 for the “Industry-Related Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Pathways for Computer Programmers” project. Over the next three years, the project will create a comprehensive associate degree and one-year certificate program that will increase access to AI technology education for students in Atlantic and Cape May County.
The project will be built on existing computer programming associates with degree in applied science. The goals include designing and implementing four new courses focused on machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision and AI ethics. These courses are gradually introduced starting with basic concepts in the first year and then entering specialized topics in the second year. Students will work with local industry to participate in the final Capstone project and showcase their work at the annual expo.
The Atlantic Cape Project is funded by June 30, 2028, and is led by Chief Investigator and Professor CISM, Dr. Bodjan Girovich, Co-Investigator, ISAS/Business & Professor, Computer Information Systems, Dr. Otto Hernandez, and Assistant Professor of Business and eSports Michele Tugashi.
“We prepare students for high-demand careers of AI and ML by equipping commercial applications of AI technology to thrive in the rapidly evolving technology situation. Students will benefit from a curriculum that efficiently prepares for employment in the AI field. “By working with local industry leaders, the curriculum will ensure that students will graduate from their duties to contribute to an AI-driven economy, in line with the demands of the workforce. The importance of this project lies in the possibility of increasing participation in the STEM workforce and preparing students to address the challenges in the advent of AI technology.”
Part of this programme, Atlantic Cape faculty will undergo professional development to train with cutting-edge equipment and innovative educational methods. They also participate in externships with various industry partners to acquire real-world experiences integrated into the curriculum.
Last November, the World Economic Forum predicted that AI and ML would create 97 million new jobs by this year. Despite the growing demand for skilled machine learning developers, technology leaders find it difficult to hire skilled AI and ML talent, so they need more qualified professionals with formal university-level qualifications.
“Local employers, including Spencer's Gift, South Jersey Industries, Engineering & Information Technologies, and Atlantic City Police, have expressed a significant need for skilled AI and ML professionals at their usual annual advisory board meetings for computer information systems,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez considers the great potential for sustainable growth that the program is interested in university, students interested in seeking careers in AI and ML, and in the local economy.
“We believe that through this initiative, Atlantic Cape will expand its impact on students and meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in AI and machine learning. Furthermore, local and local industries will benefit from a well-prepared workforce with the latest knowledge and skills. “By providing degree options and certificates in AI and machine learning, we provide the opportunity for prospective students in Atlantic and Cape May County to acquire valuable skills that will greatly improve their employment potential and acquisition potential.”
For more information on industry-related artificial intelligence and machine learning pathways for computer programmer projects, please email Dr. Bojan Zilovic at bzilovic@atlanticcape.edu.
