Preparing students for the future: LSC-University Park launches new AI/ML program and lab

HOUSTON, TX -- Lone Star College-University Park (LSC-University Park) unveiled its state-of-the-art Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics laboratory during a Sept. 17 ribbon-cutting ceremony. The new lab, a culmination of efforts initiated in 2022 under the leadership of LSC-University Park Vice President of Instruction Steven Kahla, Ph.D., and the Division of Computer & Engineering Technology, marks a significant milestone in the college's commitment to technological advancement.

“The inauguration of the Lone Star College-University Park AI and Data Analytics Laboratory and the launch of our new Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree program will provide hands-on experience to prepare our students to lead and excel,” said Kahla.

Partially funded by a generous contribution from the Society for Information Management-Houston (SIM-Houston), the new lab will serve as the cornerstone of the AI/ML program. This program extends beyond generative AI to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in industrial applications. By focusing on enhancing productivity, efficiency, and quality, the program and lab aims to educate how industries operate.

“We wanted to make a multi-year commitment where we can do something that’s really significant within Lone Star College that will make a difference not just in their ability to educate and empower people [students] but get gainful employment when they get out,” said George Crawford, president of SIM-Houston.

Students enrolled in in the innovative AI/ML AAS program will gain practical experience and develop expertise in applying AI to real-world challenges. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on projects, they will learn to harness the power of advanced technologies to drive operational excellence and reshape industrial processes.

According to the World Economic Forum's "Future of Jobs Report 2023," demand for AI and machine learning specialists is expected to grow by 40%, or 1 million jobs, as AI and machine learning drive continued industry transformation. The report also states that 75% of companies plan to adopt AI techniques such as machine learning and neural networks. These trends highlight the importance of educational programs like LSC-University Park's in preparing the future workforce.

LSC-University Park offers more than 70 programs of study, including credit and non-credit courses, workforce training, and continuing education classes. Classes can be taken during the day, evenings, and weekends in traditional, online, and hybrid formats. To learn more about the AI/ML AAS program visit, LoneStar.edu/Programs-Of-Study/AI-Machine-Learning. For more information about LSC-University Park classes or to register online, visit www.lonestar.edu/upstudentsupport, call 281-290-2600, or email UPAdvising@LoneStar.edu.

Photo: Lone Star College-University Park Vice President of Instruction Steven Kahla, Ph.D. (center right) and SIM-Houston President George Crawford (center left) cut the ribbon to open the new Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics Laboratory at LSC-University Park on Sept. 17. Joining them are data analytics professor Vanessa Cox, SIM-Houston’s Gary Russell, LSC Foundation Executive Director Nicole Robinson, LSC-University Park Interim President Matthew Dempsey, LSC Vice Chancellor Ben Melson, and CIT professor Rajiv Malkin.

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