Walsh University has introduced an AI-focused Skilled Technical Workforce (STWF) Program aimed at equipping educators and administrators with the skills needed to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into K12 education. The program ensures full tuition reimbursement through Ohio TechCred.

This summer, Dr. Amy J. Heston and Dr. Neil G. Walsh developed a specialized course under the STWF Program titled “Unleashing the Power of AI: Empowering Educators Everywhere.” This course, which offers Continuing Education Units (CEUs), is designed for K12 educators and administrators. In line with the mission of Walsh's founders, the Brothers of Christian Instruction, Drs. Heston and Walsh invited educators from local Catholic high schools to participate, aiming to provide them with tools to harness AI’s potential in classrooms.

On August 8, educators from Walsh Jesuit High School attended the inaugural session, which provided practical insights and hands-on experience in leveraging AI for educational innovation. Offered through Walsh University’s STWF Program, this initiative provides critical training at no cost to schools or their employees due to full tuition reimbursement via Ohio’s TechCred program.

The National Science Board has recognized Walsh University’s STWF Program, which has issued over 1,500 technology-based credentials through Tech Cred and other initiatives that offer relevant training to high school students and unemployed individuals.

“While striving from vision to reality, we are thrilled to see the immediate impact of this program on our local educators,” said Dr. Heston. “Our goal is to serve Catholic high schools first and then expand statewide throughout Ohio, ensuring that all educators have access to the skills needed to lead in an AI-driven world.”

This fall, Walsh University will offer its first-ever AI course titled “Science Research Innovation Through AI Technology,” a hybrid course designed by Drs. Heston and Walsh for science majors and interested students. This one-credit-hour course combines in-person and online learning to accommodate busy schedules and emphasizes integrating AI tools in scientific research covering topics like AI-driven idea generation, prompt engineering, collaborative projects, and ethical use of AI.

“Integrating AI into our curriculum not only enhances our students’ learning experiences but also positions Walsh University as a leader in bridging the gap between emerging technologies and academic excellence,” said Dr. Neil G. Walsh, Chair of Mathematics and Sciences, Associate Professor of Chemistry, and co-designer of the course. “This course among others currently being developed is a testament to our commitment to staying at the cutting edge of education and research.”

Walsh University continues its commitment by establishing a dedicated taskforce focused on embracing AI as part of its broader effort aligning with its mission of forming leaders through authentically Catholic education.

Educators and administrators interested in enrolling in upcoming sessions or learning more about the STWF Program are encouraged to contact Dr. Amy J. Heston at aheston@walsh.edu or Dr. Neil G. Walsh at nwalsh@walsh.edu.