Connecticut Expands AI Workforce Training 

Connecticut is expanding investments in key artificial intelligence education and workforce development programs.

Gov. Ned Lamont announced Feb. 17 the launch of the third phase of the Connecticut Tech Talent Accelerator, expanding postsecondary education and workforce training programs focused on AI. 

This latest phase will fund AI skills programs at public and independent colleges and universities, with seven institutions and 12 business partners participating.

“AI is reshaping many sectors of our economy, and Connecticut is ensuring our workers and students are prepared to lead in this new era,” Lamont said in a statement.

“By investing in AI education and workforce training through the Tech Talent Accelerator, we are strengthening our talent pipeline, supporting Connecticut businesses, and creating opportunities for everyone to secure high-quality, good-paying jobs.” 

Talent Pipeline 

As AI adoption grows across industries, including advanced manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, bioscience, and technology, employers increasingly need workers who understand how to apply tools in real-world settings. 

The third phase of TTA will highlight the work of participating institutions and their partnerships with Connecticut employers. This work will include: 

• Connecticut College will integrate applied AI skills and competencies into three credit-bearing accounting and entrepreneurship courses. 

• Fairfield University will strengthen nursing education with AI‑focused curriculum, workshops, and a digital badge, alongside an eight‑week computer science student project creating AI‑enabled simulation tools. 

• Quinnipiac University will delevop an eight‑week online program focused on AI fundamentals in healthcare business innovation. 

• Southern Connecticut State University will expand its AI in Manufacturing program to introduce quantum computing concepts through a new noncredit microcredential. 

• University of Connecticut will deliver a cross‑disciplinary, industry‑informed AI workflow agent micro-credential that can stack into existing engineering degree pathways. 

• University of New Haven will launch an AI for Cybersecurity concentration within its BS in Cybersecurity program. 

• University of Saint Joseph will revise and create four credit‑bearing courses and introduce a Certificate in Applied AI for Business, complete with capstones, internships, and challenge‑based experiences.  

For businesses across the state, this investment helps address persistent talent shortages in roles expected to integrate AI into workflows. 

“Recruitment remains a major issue for Connecticut employers,” CBIA policy director Danielle Cloud said.

“Expanding AI-focused education and training ensures our companies can access the skilled talent they need to innovate, grow, and compete.” 

Keeping Connecticut Competitive 

States across the country are making serious investments in advanced technology workforce initiatives.

By expanding TTA 3.0, Connecticut is signaling to employers that it is committed to aligning education with industry demand. 

Kelli Vallieres, Connecticut’s chief workforce officer, said, “TTA 3.0 represents a strategic step forward in equipping students and workers with the AI skills that employers across our state demand.” 

“Expanding AI-focused education and training ensures our companies can access the skilled talent they need.”

CBIA’s Danielle Cloud

Employer engagement will be key to the program’s success.

Through curriculum collaboration, work-based learning, and direct hiring pipelines, businesses can help shape the next generation of talent while strengthening their own workforce strategies. 

As AI continues to transform how companies operate, initiatives like TTA 3.0 demonstrate how strategic partnerships between education and industry support Connecticut’s long-term growth. 

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For more information, contact CBIA’s Danielle Cloud (860.244.1911).