Feb. 13, 2025 — A new micro-credential in AI and Data Analytics is now available through Upskill Mid-South in partnership with Vista Data. The eight-week training program is being launched to grow and develop the AI-powered talent pipeline needed in the Mid-South and was created for non-technical professionals seeking to advance their skillset in AI and data analytics.
“The rapid advancements in AI technology highlight a critical need for continuous professional development within the workforce, Diane Pabich, director at the Center for Community Research and Evaluation (CCRE) said. “As AI outpaces organizational knowledge, bridging the skill gap through specialized training becomes essential. The future of productivity hinges on our ability to adapt and upskill, ensuring that we stay ahead in an evolving technological landscape.”
Registration for the course has been extended through this Friday, Feb. 14 at midnight.
Upskill Mid-South will kick off the launch of week one for the credential on Feb. 18 on the UofM Central Campus. The credential is among several offered though Upskill Mid-South which provide a flexible and focused approach to professional development, allowing employees and employers to commit to professional growth ensuring long-term success in their organization.
Sponsorship for 100% of the tuition cost for the program may be available for eligible participants from the following sectors: Advanced manufacturing, transportation, logistics and technology, and construction industries within Upskill Mid-South’s service areas of 42-counties across Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas.
Upskill Mid-South began in 2023 with $21.5M in funding from the Economic Development Administration to support the competitiveness of the workforce by eliminating barriers by providing training for unemployed and underemployed workers.
“The rapid advancements in AI technology highlight a critical need for continuous professional development within the workforce. As AI outpaces organizational knowledge, bridging the skill gap through specialized training becomes essential. The future of productivity hinges on our ability to adapt and upskill, ensuring that we stay ahead in an evolving technological landscape.” “
-Diane Pabich
The part-time program is structured with three in-person sessions, five virtual workshops and asynchronous modules. Weekly journals and a dedicated learning community, plus an AI coaching assistant, Aida, are built into the curriculum. Participants must submit a final AI Action Lab project which will be presented to City of Memphis leaders as part of the program requirements.
Individuals who successfully complete the program will be invited to an in-person graduation on April 14 and receive a certificate and verified digital credential from Vista Data as an AIDA (AI + Data Analytics) Professional which authenticates that an individual has “the knowledge to create and manage AI-powered workplace solutions, lead data-driving decision making and processes, develop effective human-AI collaboration and drive innovation within their organizations.”
Among the other reasons listed to choose the program include the human-first AI integration component which allows teams to be trained in AI while instilling a human-first approach; direct professional impact through acquisition of skills in tools such as ChatGPT, Perplexity AI, NotebookLM, Tableau and more; ongoing learning and support, building upon AI skills and serving as an internal AI champion in one’s organization.
For more information or to apply visit: https://www.vistadata.io/aida.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Trent Shadid
Director, Communications
tshadid@memphis.edu
(O) 901.678.3811
