Artificial intelligence is changing faster than many students can keep up, and a new student organization at Central Michigan University wants to ensure CMU stays ahead of the curve. CMU's newest registered student organization, CentralAI, was founded to help students understand, apply, and question the rapidly evolving role of AI in business and society.
“We are thrilled to be working with CentralAI,” said Nathan Young, a second-year information systems major from Gladstone, Michigan, and president of CentralAI. “This is not a technology that can be avoided, but it must be embraced and leveraged in the right way.”
For Young, starting the group felt urgent. “The future began yesterday,” he said. “This semester felt like the perfect time for positive, like-minded people to come together and learn from each other.”
A space for students to learn and challenge the role of AI in business
CentralAI aims to help students develop practical skills while fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and imagination. Members will explore how AI tools can streamline workflows, support decision-making, and generate new ideas across industries.
“Students need to challenge the status quo and imagine new possibilities while learning how to use AI for real-world business applications,” Young said.
The organization's weekly structure reflects a blend of hands-on learning and big-picture exploration.
Weekly meetings for real learning
A typical CentralAI meeting is a mix of discussion, practice, and connection.
- AI of the week
Students analyze new models, emerging use cases, changes in the industry, and their impact on broader society. The goal is to connect global AI developments to the careers students are preparing for.
- Project development time
Members apply what they learn to individual or team-based projects. Students will experiment with tools and approaches that reflect current business practices.
- guest speaker
Experts share how they are leveraging AI in their daily work and provide insight into how roles are changing. Students can see the future of work first-hand through the people already working in it.
Combining these elements allows students to build confidence and experience one meeting at a time.
A culture built on innovation and empowerment
Young wants CentralAI to be a welcoming environment where students can learn from each other, take risks, and expand their thinking.
“It’s a community of innovation and empowerment,” he said. “Our members learn from and inspire each other every week.”
His motivation to lead the organization is rooted in a desire to help CMU students stand out. “I wanted to do my part to help CMU students use AI to differentiate themselves from their peers,” Young said. “I created CentralAI to inspire students to reimagine the possibilities for business and beyond.”
What’s next for CentralAI?
The group is wrapping up its first semester with networking events and is already preparing for a busy spring.
“We have some exciting things planned for next semester, including more projects, speakers, and hopefully trying out new AI technologies,” Young said.
CentralAI welcomes students of all majors who are interested in AI or want to develop critical skills in any industry. The door is open for anyone looking to understand the tools that will shape the future of work.
Faculty of Business Administration
