Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Stout is embedding artificial intelligence (AI) training across all its degree programs to prepare graduates for the evolving workforce. This initiative extends beyond curriculum development, involving collaborations with community, business, and industry partners through innovation centers, consulting services, and continuing education courses.

Computer and electrical engineering seniors Corey Hedlund and Michael Witt are leading efforts as members of the AI Student Club. "AI consists of a number of skill sets. Equipping students from every major with AI skills is not only important but necessary," said Assistant Professor Yuan Xing, who advises the club.

The club has achieved notable success in competitions such as winning first place at the 2024 DigiKey DKC3 Coding Competition. They also engage in applied learning activities on campus and beyond.

UW-Stout faculty are recognized for their contributions to AI research. Professor Keith Wojciechowski highlighted the university's dedication to integrating AI into academic offerings: "Our interdisciplinary AI Fellows...exemplify our dedication to integrating AI into every aspect of our academic offerings."

B.S. cybersecurity Program Director Holly Yuan received the Visionary Academic Leadership Award for her contributions to cybersecurity education. "AI can be leveraged to enhance cybersecurity controls and processes," she stated.

Assistant Professor Heather Hessel was awarded by the Wisconsin Association for Marriage and Family Therapy for advancing AI integration in therapy. Additionally, UW-Stout professors are developing technology for precision agriculture funded by a $175,000 grant from Universities of Wisconsin Innovation Grant.

UW-Stout’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence (CAM-AI) supports small and midsize manufacturers in Wisconsin and Minnesota through consulting, training, and workforce development initiatives.

The U.S. Department of Defense Cyber Service Academy awarded UW-Stout a $124,555 federal grant to create ACCESS — an AI-powered system designed to improve cybersecurity within the U.S. Defense supply chain.

Emily Laird, UW-Stout’s AI Integration Technologist, emphasizes that "AI literacy is no longer optional; it’s essential." She leads weekly meetups exploring various aspects of artificial intelligence open to community members and alumni.

Laird's presentations focus on preparing individuals for changes brought about by generative AI technologies: “This will greatly impact fields like web managing...My research helps folks prepare for a new reality.”

Overall, UW-Stout aims to set a standard for AI literacy and workforce readiness through comprehensive strategies involving students, faculty, industry partners, and broader community engagement.