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County College of Morris (CCM) has announced that applications are now open for its innovative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science Apprenticeship program. This unique initiative is designed to provide New Jersey residents, including both current CCM students and adult learners, with invaluable paid, hands-on experience. The program aims to prepare participants for successful careers in the rapidly expanding fields of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data science, which are increasingly critical across various industries. Successful completion leads to a specialized certificate from CCM and a Registered Apprenticeship Certificate from the New Jersey Department of Labor, marking a significant step towards professional recognition.
The apprenticeship at County College of Morris seamlessly integrates academic coursework with practical, real-world experience. Participants are required to complete 30 credits of college-level study alongside 2,000 hours of paid, on-the-job training. This comprehensive approach ensures that individuals not only gain theoretical knowledge but also develop practical skills under the guidance of experienced industry professionals. Upon meeting these requirements, apprentices receive an AI and Data Science Certificate from CCM and an official Registered Apprenticeship Certificate of Completion from the New Jersey Department of Labor, signifying a robust foundation in the field.
Eligible participants in the AI and Data Science Apprenticeship may have their tuition and associated fees covered, making this advanced education more accessible. Beyond the immediate certificate, the college credits earned through the program are fully transferable towards a 60-credit associate degree at CCM. This provides a clear academic pathway, allowing graduates to further their education by transferring to a four-year university to pursue a bachelor's degree in a related technical field, thereby enhancing their long-term career prospects.
Nancy Binowski, a distinguished professor of AI and Data Science at CCM, emphasized the profound impact of artificial intelligence and data science on the evolving global economy. She highlighted that this innovative 'earn-and-learn' model offers a dual benefit: students acquire critical real-world experience in high-demand areas, while partnering employers gain the opportunity to cultivate emerging talent and integrate cutting-edge AI and data science solutions directly into their business operations, fostering innovation and growth within their organizations.
This apprenticeship program holds significant distinction as County College of Morris was specifically chosen as one of only two community colleges in New Jersey to deliver the state's inaugural United States Department of Labor-registered AI and Data Science Apprenticeship. This selection underscores CCM's leadership and commitment to preparing a skilled workforce proficient in these crucial technologies. Prospective applicants are urged to submit their applications by the deadline of 11:59 p.m. on Monday, November 2, to secure their spot in this groundbreaking program.
Companies and organizations interested in forging a partnership with the County College of Morris AI and Data Science Apprenticeship program are strongly encouraged to reach out for more detailed information. Interested employers can contact the program organizers directly via email at [email protected] or by calling (973) 328-5703 to discuss collaboration opportunities and how their business can benefit from this talent development initiative.