Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and reshaping the future of work, and AI education at UW-Stout is leading the way. The University of Wisconsin-Stout (UW-Stout) is integrating AI across all its programs, from engineering to marketing and beyond, equipping students with essential AI skills to thrive in an evolving workforce. By embedding AI literacy into its curriculum and partnering with industry leaders, UW-Stout is preparing graduates for the future while driving innovation across industries.

Comprehensive AI Integration in Education

At UW-Stout, AI isn’t limited to just one department or a singular program. The university’s approach to AI education is all-encompassing, aiming to prepare students across disciplines for a world where AI proficiency is not just an advantage, but a necessity.

AI Across Disciplines

UW-Stout is embedding AI training even in disciplines you might not immediately associate with artificial intelligence:

• Engineering and Technology: AI is integrated into machine components courses using cutting-edge chatbots and simulations.
• Marketing and Design: Students learn how AI tools enhance consumer engagement through data-driven insights and automated processes.
• Supply Chain and Manufacturing: AI optimizes processes with advancements in automation, efficiency, and predictive analytics.
• Counseling and Therapy: Professors are exploring how AI can support mental health professionals through technology-enhanced therapies and diagnostics.

This approach reflects the university’s career-focused mission, ensuring all students graduate with skills that are relevant, adaptable, and highly sought after in the job market.

A Hands-On Approach

Hands-on, experiential learning is at the core of UW-Stout’s philosophy. The AI Student Club, led by seniors Corey Hedlund and Michael Witt, embodies this ethos. The club invites students from all majors to learn and experiment with AI through activities that don’t require a technical background. From coding competitions to live demonstrations, the club fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration and builds a community of AI enthusiasts eager to innovate.

Impact Across Campus and Beyond

Apart from its robust curriculum, UW-Stout actively collaborates with community and industry partners, helping organizations leverage AI in real-world applications. This initiative not only prepares students for the workforce but also drives innovation across Wisconsin.

Faculty-Driven AI Innovation

UW-Stout’s faculty plays a pivotal role in fostering AI literacy and innovation. Led by the university’s AI Fellows and AI Innovation Committee, they ensure AI is integrated responsibly and effectively into teaching, operations, and research.

Pioneering Research and Recognition

Faculty at UW-Stout are leading groundbreaking research in fields like healthcare, cybersecurity, and agriculture. Professor Kerry Peterson integrates AI into health sciences education, Holly Yuan develops courses like “Generative AI in Cybersecurity,” and faculty collaborate on precision agriculture technology to support Wisconsin farmers with data-driven insights. These initiatives ensure graduates are job-ready and equipped to solve real-world problems with AI.

Building Regional and Statewide AI Competence

Innovation Centers for AI and Business Integration

UW-Stout’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Artificial Intelligence (CAM-AI) supports manufacturers in Wisconsin and Minnesota with consulting, training, and workforce development, offering practical AI solutions to boost productivity and competitiveness. As part of the Central Wisconsin AI Center, UW-Stout also promotes AI adoption through workforce training, K-12 education, and industry applications, driving innovation and economic growth in local communities.

Student Impact in Wisconsin and Beyond

Leadership opportunities abound for UW-Stout students passionate about AI. Through competitions, research, and collaborations with community partners, graduates leave equipped not only with technical expertise but also with leadership skills to drive change within their industries. The AI Student Club’s achievements, such as winning the DigiKey Coding Competition, showcase the talent and passion cultivated at UW-Stout.

Why AI Literacy is Essential for All Majors

AI is transforming industries from graphic design to supply chain management, making it essential for students in all fields to gain AI literacy. Assistant Professor Yuan Xing highlights the importance of equipping students with these skills to stay competitive in an increasingly automated world. Aligning with UW-Stout’s polytechnic mission of career-focused, real-world education, the university is preparing graduates to thrive in a data-driven future.

Take Your Organization or Institution to the Next Level

AI is transforming how organizations operate and compete across industries. At FirstIgnite, we share UW-Stout’s vision of empowering professionals with AI skills for future success. By connecting thought leaders with industry opportunities and providing tools for AI-powered growth, we help you take your organization to the next level.

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