Drake State Community & Technical College participates in the AWS-Machine Learning University Educators Consortium and Transformation Alliance. The university is one of 14 historically Black institutions in Alabama working to expand access to artificial intelligence and machine learning education.
The conference culminated in the formation of the Alliance for AI and Machine Learning. This groundbreaking effort was co-led by Dr. Calvin Briggs of the Southern STEM Center and Dr. Majed Dweik of Alabama A&M University. This new partnership will serve as a catalyst to integrate AI across educational institutions and strengthen the state’s talent pipeline.
“AI and machine learning education and research in collaboration with industry “We are developing the workforce of the future and ensuring that innovation benefits everyone,” said Margie Vella, AWS Machine Learning University Senior Program Manager. “We are proud to support our education partners in the South as they lead the charge for inclusive innovation that connects learning, research, and real-world impact.”
“Drake State University is committed to ensuring that our students are not only ready for today’s workforce, but also to lead tomorrow’s innovation economy. Through our partnership with AWS and the Machine Learning University Educators Consortium and Transformation Alliance, we are opening the door to cutting-edge AI and machine learning education that enables students to create solutions to real-world challenges and drive inclusive progress across Alabama and beyond.” said Lydia Owens, Head of Technology. Drake State Community College.
This initiative is designed to support a more comprehensive technology talent pipeline while contributing to Alabama’s growing presence in machine learning education and research. This program expands AI and machine learning opportunities for students at historically Black colleges and universities, providing training that helps shape how these technologies are developed and applied. Participants can contribute to the continued advancement of the field by creating algorithms, designing AI tools that address community needs, and pursuing careers in broader technology fields.
