Hillsborough College (HC) was awarded a $1.29 million federal grant through the Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) by the U.S. Department of Education.
This grant will be allocated to implement AI-PREP4WORK: AI Innovation Center – Preparing Students and Educators for AI-Enabled Workplaces, a four-year initiative focused on expanding applied artificial intelligence education and workforce preparation.
“It is an honor to be awarded this grant,” said Eric Johnson, director of Community and Government Relations at Hillsborough College. “It represents a major investment in our community and further reinforces our grant portfolio, allowing us to bolster our commitment to aligning education with workforce demands so students can be prepared to succeed in an AI-driven economy.”
“As artificial intelligence continues to transform industries, this grant ensures the College remains a leader in innovation,” said Christopher Paynter, dean of Associate in Science Programs at Hillsborough College’s Dale Mabry Campus. “Through the AI Innovation Center, we will provide students and educators meaningful opportunities to learn and apply new skills in ways that connect directly to the workplace. This initiative is not just about technology; it’s about preparing people for what’s next and creating real pathways to success for our community.”
For more information on the FIPSE, visit the FIPSE website (www.ed.gov).
Hillsborough College serves more than 46,000 students annually at its five campuses located throughout Tampa Bay. For more information, visit hcfl.edu.
Hillsborough College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. Hillsborough College also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Hillsborough College may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
Visit hcfl.edu/accreditation for more information.