Florida Polytechnic University has received a $500,000 one-year grant from Google to support the integration of artificial intelligence across its entire curriculum.
The grant funds the university’s Faculty Innovation Lab, which provides resources for faculty to embed AI-infused components into all academic programs. Florida Poly is the state’s only public university dedicated exclusively to STEM education.
In the initiative’s first year, an initial group of 20 professors will participate in training to develop AI-integrated courses. These faculty members will teach the new classes and conduct workshops to prepare a subsequent group of educators.
The effort is projected to result in 40 faculty members developing AI-integrated courses in the first year, impacting more than 1,000 students annually. Upon full implementation, every academic program at Florida Poly will incorporate AI literacy or proficiency elements.
Dr. Brad Thiessen, provost at Florida Poly, stated that AI is transforming disciplines beyond computer science and engineering, and the initiative will ensure graduates are skilled in STEM fundamentals while fluent in emerging technologies.
Dr. Asai Asaithambi, chair of the departments of computer science and electrical, computer and cybersecurity engineering, and a primary architect of the grant, noted that the funding will promote mastery of AI within various disciplines and support ethical and effective use of its tools. He added that it will fuel growth in AI-intensive educational and research activities across campus.
Long-term goals include enhancing AI-enabled research, encouraging interdisciplinary discussions on new courses, and strengthening the pipeline of graduates prepared for technology-driven transformation.
Seth Spencer, director of development at Florida Poly, expressed gratitude for Google’s investment, stating it will advance the university’s AI research and equip students with critical skills to contribute to Florida’s economy.
The announcement aligns with broader trends, as AI increasingly influences industries including manufacturing, energy, health care, finance, transportation, retail, agriculture, media, and professional services.
For more details, visit the Florida Poly News website.
SOURCE: CITY OF LAKELAND
