Miles College on Monday announced a new multi-million dollar collaboration with IBM on a comprehensive program designed to develop high-demand skill sets in students and faculty that align with industry needs and trends.
As part of this program, IBM is reportedly donating $2 million worth of artificial intelligence (AI) and open hybrid cloud technology resources to help Miles students build 21st-century economy skills they will need in the modern job market.
According to a release from the college located in Fairfield, IBM and Miles College are both building on the necessity to advance digital skills in education and are dedicated to providing future-focused curriculum and educational tools to help train the diverse workforce of tomorrow in fast-growing technologies such as AI, blockchain, data science, cybersecurity, cloud and quantum.
“Miles College celebrates IBM’s leadership in recognizing the value of investing in HBCU students as current and future leaders and innovators in the technology workforce,” stated Bobbie Knight, president of Miles College and a 2020 Yellowhammer Woman of Impact.
“While the digital divide has historically placed many students at a technological disadvantage, this initiative will absolutely help narrow that gap,” she continued.
The new collaboration extends IBM’s recent investment in technology, assets, resources and skills development with HBCUs across the country through the IBM Skills Academy Academic Initiative.
“Equal access to skills and jobs is the key to unlocking economic opportunity and prosperity for diverse populations,” commented Valinda Scarbro Kennedy, HBCU program lead for IBM Global University Programs. “As we announced earlier this fall, IBM is deeply committed to helping HBCU students build their skills to better prepare for the future of work. Through this collaboration, Miles College students will have an opportunity to gain modern skills in emerging technologies across hybrid cloud, quantum and AI so they can be better prepared for the future of work in the digital economy.”
Sean Ross is the editor of Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @sean_yhn
Don’t miss out! Subscribe today to have Alabama’s leading headlines delivered to your inbox.