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James Maroney
Senator | Milford, CT

Connecticut Online AI Academy

Idea Category: 2025 Ideas Challenge, Economic Opportunity & Affordability

2025 Ideas Challenge Entry

The Connecticut Online AI Academy is a statewide, free learning initiative designed to equip residents with the skills needed to thrive in an artificial intelligence–driven economy. Developed and maintained by a state college in partnership with private industry, the Academy makes AI education accessible to workers, students, educators, and small businesses.

Technological revolutions have historically created more jobs than they have eliminated—but the new jobs require different skills. Without action, too many residents risk being left behind. A statewide Digital Equity Survey of 4,000 families found that more than one-quarter lacked high-speed internet, and more than one-third failed basic digital literacy.

The need is urgent. According to the World Economic Forum, nearly 59% of workers worldwide will need to be reskilled by 2030 due to emerging technologies. Without targeted intervention, the digital divide will grow deeper. A 2023 McKinsey report estimates that generative AI could widen the racial wealth gap by $43 billion annually, while national data shows that women are more likely than men to work in jobs vulnerable to automation. Small businesses also face disadvantages, often lacking the resources to adopt AI effectively.

The Academy addresses these challenges through a multi-pronged approach:

Free Online Courses: AI and digital literacy training with a free Google AI Essentials certification for graduates.
Teen AI Academy: Early exposure to AI for youth, paired with opportunities for parents to enroll, creating a two-generation learning model.
Career-Aligned Training: Specialized courses such as “AI for Marketing” and “AI for Small Business Operations,” designed with input from employers.
Educator Resources: Free asynchronous courses to help teachers and administrators integrate AI into classrooms and curricula.
Integration with State Programs: Outreach through unemployment services, early childhood programs, and small business communications.
Community Partnerships: Collaborations with local nonprofits to improve course completion rates and reach underserved communities through trusted messengers.

Impact or how it will be measured:

The Academy is expected to reach thousands of residents annually, increasing economic mobility and preparing individuals and small businesses for the future of work. Progress will be measured by:

Enrollment data through the college’s online portal.
In addition, we will follow up with a random sample of people who complete the courses to check on their before and after career and income.

Digital equity outcomes, supported by nonprofit partnerships to provide devices, internet access, and basic digital literacy training.