Amazon Web Services (AWS) Five U.S. institutions have been named regional leaders for the Machine Learning University (AWS-MLU) initiative. This is a program intended for expansion. artificial intelligence Machine learning training across higher education.
These institutions will coordinate professional development, bootcamps, and curriculum development as part of a broader effort to strengthen the pipeline of AI skills at U.S. universities.
The institutions selected as regional leaders are Delaware State University, Howard University, Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University, City Colleges of Chicago, and Oklahoma City Community College.
AWS said the network will support faculty training, student programs, and collaborative course development related to generative AI and agent AI technologies.
Universities and community colleges lead regional training
In this initiative, five leading academic institutions will host AWS-MLU Generative AI and Agentic AI bootcamps alongside a business case competition designed for student teams.
The program also includes hands-on training in AI and machine learning aimed at expanding practical skills development within participating institutions.
AWS said faculty fellows from leading universities will work with the Distributed Education Collaboration Consortium, led by Dr. Odest Chadwick Jenkins of the University of Michigan, to develop course materials and expand AI education nationally.
This partnership aims to strengthen AI education pathways across Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), particularly community colleges.
The initiative will connect faculty from leading institutions and educators across the consortium to develop educational materials and expand access to AI education.
Dr. Margie Vella, head of strategic initiatives for the University of Machine Learning at Amazon Web Services, says the model is designed to create a coordinated approach to AI education across institutions. “This is how we build national momentum: through local leadership, shared creativity, and a collective effort to prepare students around the world to succeed in an AI-driven world,” she says.
AWS Public Sector announced the initiative on LinkedIn, describing the agency as a regional leader in advancing professional development and capacity building in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
AI skills development expands across higher education
The program reflects increased collaboration between technology companies and higher education institutions as demand for AI and machine learning skills increases across the workforce.
AWS said regional leaders will support training initiatives, curriculum development, and student programs designed to prepare graduates for AI-related careers across multiple sectors.
The initiative also highlights the role of HBCUs and community colleges in expanding access to emerging technology education as universities adapt their programs to changing workforce needs.
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