As artificial intelligence increasingly influences the workforce, community colleges in Chicago and its suburbs are equipping students with the skills necessary for an AI-driven future. These educational institutions are adopting strategies to integrate knowledge of AI into their curricula.
National-Level Engagement
Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills has taken a significant step in this direction. Ryen Nagle, the vice president of Academic Affairs, has been appointed to the Commission on the Future of Work by the American Association of Community Colleges. This organization advocates for community colleges nationwide.
Nagle’s interest in this position stems from recent developments in workforce innovations and education. His term commenced on July 1 and will extend until June 30, 2029. He remarked, “One thing we’re examining is the AI tools our employers need across different fields. It varies widely, and ensuring our faculty and students have access to these tools is crucial.”
The committee’s objective is to identify employers’ cultural needs concerning AI and how it can be used ethically and responsibly. They meet for the first time in November. Nagle expressed his hope that students will acquire AI skills for use across various sectors, such as cybersecurity and information technology, where AI is becoming standard practice.
Broadening the Conversation
Nagle emphasized the importance of in-depth discussions about AI’s role in both the workforce and daily life. He stated, “Work is vital to our lives and community health. It’s not only about productivity but also about purpose, so it’s important to consider AI’s human aspect.”
Dr. Ryen Nagle holds the position of vice president of Academic Affairs at Moraine Valley Community College, as acknowledged by the institution itself.
Expansion of AI Programs
Moraine Valley is not alone in its efforts. In August 2026, City Colleges of Chicago announced the launch of its first college credit AI degree program at Wilbur Wright College in Chicago’s Dunning neighborhood. This program, set to start this fall, will offer both virtual and in-person classes, as stated by Ayoka Noelle Mota Samuels, associate vice chancellor of technology sector strategy. She highlighted that these programs aim to equip students with AI-related skills for employment.
City Colleges has been integrating AI and IT skills across several programs for years. Students can engage with information technology through the Tech Launchpad initiative at Kennedy-King College and obtain advanced certificates in AI and Machine Learning Development at Wilbur Wright College.
Preparing Students for AI Influence
Nagle believes AI discussions at community colleges will prepare students for an AI-impacted work environment. However, readiness extends beyond workplace applications. Laura Lauzen-Collins, a psychology professor at Moraine Valley, already incorporates AI discussions into her classroom.
She stresses the need for students to master fundamental skills while understanding ethical practices. Lauzen-Collins stated, “You need to know how to use widely-used tools and recognize when a tool is incorrect.”
Although uncertainties remain about AI’s future, Lauzen-Collins aims for her students to be prepared. “No one knows the exact future of AI, but we discuss it. For careers heavily reliant on computers, there’s more risk as AI advances,” she noted.