Community colleges in Chicago and nearby areas are equipping students for a future influenced by artificial intelligence. Educators from these institutions are analyzing the technology on a national scale to enhance local education strategies.
Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills announced Ryen Nagle’s appointment to the Commission on the Future of Work through the American Association of Community Colleges.
Nagle, vice president of Academic Affairs, seeks to integrate AI into workforce training. His term, which began on July 1, 2029, emphasizes understanding AI tools useful for different industries and ensuring faculty and students have access to these resources.
Nagle explained the committee’s goal is to identify cultural needs regarding AI and to promote ethical usage of AI in the workplace. The committee is set to convene in November.
The initiative hopes to prepare students for AI utilization in fields like cybersecurity and information technology, evolving into standard practices. Nagle advocates for deeper discussions on AI’s impact on work and personal life.
“Work is intrinsic to our personal and communal well-being, offering productivity and purpose. I aspire that AI’s human facets are included in these dialogues, benefiting students,” Nagle emphasized.
Another significant development occurred in August 2026 when City Colleges of Chicago announced its first college credit AI degree program at Wilbur Wright College. Ayoka Noelle Mota Samuels, associate vice chancellor of technology sector strategy, stated the program offers vital skills for AI-centric careers starting this fall, with classes available both online and in-person.
Mota Samuels emphasized their responsibility to present training opportunities in AI to enhance employability in the region. City Colleges of Chicago has incorporated AI and IT skills into various programs in recent years. The Tech Launchpad at Kennedy-King College provides information technology education, and advanced certification in AI and Machine Learning Development is available at Wilbur Wright College.
Laura Lauzen-Collins, psychology professor at Moraine Valley Community College, integrates AI conversations within classroom settings, promoting foundational skills alongside responsible practices. Lauzen-Collins advocates for understanding AI tools and knowing when they might be erroneous.
Lauzen-Collins acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding AI’s future but stresses preparedness for its impacts on careers, especially those relying heavily on computer-based tasks.
“While AI’s future remains uncertain, continuous dialogue prepares students for potential impacts, especially on computer-centric careers,” Lauzen-Collins highlighted.
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