The Oklahoma City Thunder and Google have announced a new partnership aimed at enhancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) education for students and workforce development in Oklahoma. This collaboration, unveiled during an AI Business Summit on September 29, 2023, at the Paycom Center, is part of Google’s broader commitment to invest $5 million in the state, focusing on equipping individuals with essential AI skills.
The initiative is designed to empower both students and educators. According to Michelle Matthews, Director of Fan Development for the Thunder, the goal is to make AI accessible and engaging for Oklahomans, enabling them to actively participate in this technological evolution rather than being passive observers.
While addressing over 100 professionals from various sectors—including business, education, health care, and technology—MJ Henshaw, Google’s Head of Public Affairs in Oklahoma, emphasized the importance of collaboration in fostering AI education. He noted, “When Google comes into a community, we want to be a good community partner, and there’s no bigger community partner than the Oklahoma City Thunder.”
The partnership aims to create a comprehensive AI ecosystem in Oklahoma, incorporating practical AI tools for business innovation and productivity. Will Syring, the Thunder’s Vice President of Corporate Partnerships, highlighted the longstanding relationship between the Thunder and Google, stating that the collaboration stems from a mutual desire to enhance AI education and innovation for both students and business leaders.
As part of the initiative, the funds will support the launch of a new Master’s program in AI at Oklahoma State University and expand workforce development programs in partnership with local organizations such as the Center for Employment Opportunities and Atlas School. The Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance will also implement a new digital badging program, providing students with verifiable credentials to showcase their skills and connect with future employment opportunities.
Demonstrations at the summit showcased how Google’s AI tools can benefit local businesses and educational institutions. Jim Coleman from the Center for Employment Opportunities remarked on the significance of the grant, stating, “We’re going to be able to innovate the center for Employment Opportunities and help individuals get employed.”
Both Google and the Thunder envision a dual approach to education, focusing on K-12 curriculum and entrepreneurial support. Henshaw noted that the Thunder’s innovation lab for entrepreneurs and small businesses presents an excellent opportunity to make a substantial impact.
With this partnership, Oklahoma City aims to be at the forefront of AI education and workforce development, ensuring that residents are not only prepared for the future but are also active participants in shaping it.
