At Northcentral Technical College, Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents the innovative application of technology to enhance learning, bridge academic and industry practices and prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow.

NTC defines AI as: The use of advanced tools and systems to simulate human intelligence, enabling students to actively engage in critical thinking, problem-solving and creative learning experiences that reflect real-world industry practices. Through purposeful and strategic integration, AI empowers learners to achieve mastery of competencies, fosters ethical and effective application of technology and ensures alignment with dynamic workforce demands. 

A person typing on a laptop, with various AI graphics overlaid, including chat bubbles and a head silhouette with an AI gear/microchip.

Why Care About AI?

AI is no longer limited to high-tech industries; it impacts nearly every aspect of daily life, from personalized recommendations on streaming platforms to predictive text in smartphones. By understanding and utilizing AI, individuals can make informed decisions, increase their productivity and confidently navigate a rapidly evolving digital world.

Embracing Emerging Technologies

NTC’s Commitment to AI Integration

NTC is dedicated to shaping the future by embracing emerging technologies and equipping Wisconsin's workforce with the skills they need to succeed. With AI technologies becoming increasingly integrated into daily life, NTC is proud to offer a robust selection of educational opportunities in artificial intelligence. Developed in collaboration with industry experts, these offerings are designed to ensure students are ready to confidently navigate and excel in an AI-powered world.

Active Learning with AI

Students interact directly with AI technologies in coursework, fostering essential skills like creativity and decision-making through industry-inspired and competency-aligned experiences.

Purpose-Driven AI Integration

AI applications are chosen intentionally to enhance educational impact, promote industry relevance and uphold ethical standards.
Embedded in Every Discipline

AI in All Programming

At NTC, AI in all Programs signifies a comprehensive approach to integrating artificial intelligence into every academic discipline, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving demands of their industries. This initiative rests on three core tenets:
  • 1

    Students will actively leverage AI tools and technologies in their learning activities, fostering critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills.
  • 2

    AI applications will be intentionally tied to program and course competencies, seamlessly aligning with learning objectives to enhance student outcomes.
  • 3

    AI integration will mirror real-world industry practices, providing students with hands-on experiences that reflect how AI is transforming their fields.

Guided by Two Frameworks

NTC’s commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving workforce is reflected in these two frameworks. NTC strives to ensure students are equipped with the necessary skills and confidence to excel in their chosen fields. By embedding AI into every program, NTC aims to enhance student outcomes and align education with industry demands.

AIM Framework

Active Learning with Artificial Intelligence

Students will actively engage with AI tools and technologies in their coursework, fostering essential skills such as critical thinking, creativity and problem solving.

Industry-Inspired Experiences

Programs will integrate AI that reflects real-world practices, ensuring that students are well prepared for the demands of the field.

Mapped to Competencies

AI applications are intentionally linked to program and course competencies, aligning seamlessly with learning objectives.

AI POWER Framework

Awareness

Ensuring awareness connects AI integration to industry trends and student engagement. Choosing tools and tasks aligned with professional practices prepares students for real-world applications while making the learning experience more dynamic.

Impact

Identifying impact helps faculty focus on where AI can make the most significant difference in their course. It ensures that the integration is meaningful, aligns with learning objectives and addresses skills students need in their field.

Purpose

Defining the purpose of AI integration ensures it is intentional and directly tied to learning outcomes. A clear purpose helps focus on using AI as a tool for skill-building rather than as a shortcut, fostering critical thinking and ethical application.

Optimal Integration

Striving for optimal integration helps identify assignments and activities where AI tools can add the most value. It ensures integration is feasible for students and instructors while enhancing learning and reflecting real-world practices.

Well-planned Implementation

Well-planned implementation ensures the integration is smooth and aligned with course goals. Starting small allows faculty to pilot ideas, gather feedback and refine the process before scaling up.

Evaluation

Evaluating learning impact ensures AI integration is achieving its intended outcomes. It also helps identify challenges or areas for improvement, making integration efforts more effective over time.

Reflection

Reflection helps students and instructors alike critically evaluate the role of AI in the learning process. It fosters deeper understanding and ensures thoughtful, ethical integration into the course.

AI Training Opportunities

Available Programs, Courses, and Workshops

NTC will be offering a variety of programs, course and workshops designed to help students and professionals explore the world of AI. These offerings will provide in-depth training, hands-on experience and industry relevant knowledge to prepare learners, from foundational concepts to advanced applications.
Coming Fall 2025

Foundations of Artificial Intelligence Technical Diploma

The Foundations of Artificial Intelligence program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to succeed in the rapidly growing fields of data and artificial intelligence. This program includes cutting-edge AI courses such as AI Fundamentals, Business Applications of AI, and Ethics of AI. This program is coming soon, pending official approvals from the Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) and Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

AI Courses & Workshops

Whether you’re new to AI or looking to deepen your expertise, these courses will equip you with the skills needed to leverage AI for innovation, efficiency and decision-making in your profession.

Customized AI Training for Businesses

In addition to offering continuing education courses and workshops, our Workforce Training & Professional Development team offers customized on-site training for businesses, designed to meet the specific objectives of any organization.
More Information

Have Questions about AI at NTC?

If you have any questions or would like more information about Artificial Intelligence (AI) at NTC, please contact Reginald Smith.
Reginald Smith smiling while posing in a navy suit with a pastel pink and blue tie, while standing in front of a wall of windows at the NTC Wausau Campus

Reginald Smith