Free AI training for adults in region's growth plans

In the West Midlands, a new plan is being developed to help adults learn about artificial intelligence, or AI, for free. The region's mayor, Richard Parker, has announced that he wants to set up an AI Academy. This academy will work with top technology companies, colleges, universities, and community groups to offer training to adults. The goal is to give people clear paths to careers in AI and to help current workers improve their skills. Right now, there are more than 140 AI companies in the West Midlands, and they employ nearly 70,000 people. These companies use AI in many different fields, such as manufacturing, health technology, financial technology, creative industries, retail, and public services. The new training program will last for three years and will build on the work that these companies have already done. Mr Parker believes that learning about AI is becoming as important as learning English or math. He says that as jobs become more digital and focused on data, knowing how to use AI will be a basic skill. If people do not get the chance to learn about AI, they could be left behind as technology changes. That is why he wants to make the West Midlands the best place in the UK for AI skills training. He thinks that making sure everyone can learn about AI is not just fair, but also necessary for the region's growth. The AI Academy does not have a location yet, but it is part of a larger £30 million plan to support local skills. Mr Parker announced the plan in Wolverhampton last month. He hopes it will create 100,000 new jobs and bring major investments to towns, cities, and high streets. The plan also includes building 120,000 new homes.

Universities in the West Midlands are already working on AI. The University of Wolverhampton has started a center called CYBRAI. The University of Birmingham uses AI in health and robotics, and Coventry University and Aston University's Digital Futures Institute are leading in areas like cybersecurity, financial technology, and supply chains. These universities are helping to make the region a leader in AI research and training. Mr Parker says that it is very important for everyone to have the chance to learn about AI. He does not want anyone to be left behind as technology changes. He believes that avoiding an AI skills divide is not just about fairness, but is also crucial for the region's growth. If people do not get the chance to learn new skills, they might not be able to get good jobs in the future.

The plan for free AI training is still being developed, and more details will be announced soon. The idea is to help everyone in the West Midlands get ready for a future where AI is a big part of many jobs. People in Wolverhampton and the West Midlands can share their ideas with the BBC about what stories they want to see covered. They can also follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on social media to stay updated on what is happening in their area. By offering free training and working with schools and companies, the West Midlands hopes to become a leader in AI skills and create more opportunities for its people.