The Expanding Career Pathways in Artificial Intelligence (AI) grant program seeks to develop a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence and Robotics career and technical education (CTE) curriculum in New Jersey. The program's objective is to create a three-course CTE curriculum aligned with the Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) 11.0102, focusing on AI and Robotics. The grant aims to expand access to high-quality AI and Robotics education, integrate generative AI literacy into the curriculum, and establish Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) that involve collaboration with school districts, higher education institutions, and industry experts.
Eligible applicants include New Jersey County Vocational School Districts (CVSDs) partnering with a four-year institution of higher education (IHE) and AI industry specialists. Applicants must currently offer one or more approved CTE programs in Computer Science, Computer Programming/Programmer (General), or Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering.
The program will provide two grants of up to $375,000 each, with a total funding pool of $750,000. The grant period is a single year, running from February 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, pending FY25 state appropriations. Applications must be submitted by November 14, 2024. Grantees will be expected to develop a rigorous CTE program that addresses the principles of teaching AI and Robotics, supporting ongoing professional development and collaboration within the educational and industry community.
