The AI Institute for Advances in Optimization (AI4OPT) concluded another in-person summer session of its Faculty Training Program, welcoming Cohorts 2 and 3 to Georgia Tech. This intensive serves AI4OPT’s broader mission to empower faculty from institutions across the country to build or expand AI, data science, and optimization programs at their campuses.

A Multi-Track Curriculum for Broader Impact

Throughout the three-week session, faculty participants engaged in foundational coursework across Machine Learning I, Data Engineering and Mining I & II, and Curriculum and Program Design. Each week followed a structured schedule that blended technical instruction with collaborative planning. Sessions were led by AI4OPT faculty and researchers, including Paul Brown and Kevin Dalmeijer. The training also included hands-on activities in coding and curriculum development.

Strategic Learning to Support Program Development

This year’s program emphasized not only technical competence but also institutional impact. As participants worked through the summer curriculum, they simultaneously developed plans to establish or grow data science majors, minors, or certificates at their respective institutions. This aligns with AI4OPT’s national goal of broadening participation in AI and optimization education by equipping faculty from underserved communities with the skills and resources they need.

Preparing for Continued Engagement

Participants have now transitioned to five weeks of virtual sessions, continuing their coursework and project development remotely. This hybrid structure supports ongoing mentorship, peer collaboration, and curriculum design refinement—ensuring that the momentum of the summer program carries into the academic year.