NEWS HIGHLIGHTS: * Intel is collaborating with community colleges to launch an artificial intelligence associate degree program to prepare students for entry-level AI technician jobs. * The first AI associate degree program will launch this fall at Maricopa County Community College District, with plans to expand to other colleges across the U.S. in 2021 and globally in the future. * The curriculum will cover cutting-edge AI topics such as machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing and data collection. SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Intel today announced a new artificial intelligence associate degree program designed to address the growing skills gap in the AI workforce. The program, developed in collaboration with community colleges, will prepare students for entry-level AI technician jobs in a rapidly expanding field. The first program will launch this fall at Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) in Arizona, with plans to expand to other U.S. community colleges in 2021 and globally in the future. "Artificial intelligence is one of the fastest-growing technology areas of our time, with employment projected to grow by 31.4 percent over the next decade," said Michelle Johnston Holthaus, executive vice president and general manager of the Sales, Marketing and Communications Group at Intel. "Intel is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in the tech industry, and we see community colleges as an ideal partner to reach a diverse student population and provide access to critical AI skills training. We look forward to working with MCCCD and other community colleges to build a strong pipeline of AI talent." The AI for Workforce program will provide students with a foundational understanding of AI concepts and techniques, including machine learning, deep learning, computer vision, natural language processing and data collection. Students will also gain hands-on experience working with AI tools and technologies through practical labs and projects. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue entry-level AI technician jobs in various industries. "Maricopa is thrilled to partner with Intel to launch the nation's first AI associate degree program," said Dr. Steven R. Gonzales, interim chancellor of Maricopa Community Colleges. "This program will provide our students with the skills they need to succeed in the high-demand field of artificial intelligence. We are committed to providing accessible and affordable education that prepares our students for the jobs of the future, and this partnership with Intel is a testament to that commitment." The AI for Workforce program is part of Intel's broader AI skills initiative, which aims to train 1 million developers, data scientists and students in AI by 2020. Intel is also working with governments and educational institutions around the world to develop and implement AI education and training programs. About Intel Intel (Nasdaq: INTC) is an industry leader, creating world-changing technology that enables global progress and enriches lives. Inspired by Moore's Law, we continuously work to advance the design and manufacturing of semiconductors to help address our customers' greatest challenges. By embedding intelligence in the cloud, network, edge and every computing device, we unleash the potential of data to transform business and society for the better. To learn more about Intel's innovations, go to newsroom.intel.com and intel.com. (c) Intel Corporation. Intel, the Intel logo and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.