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COLUMBIA, Mo.—Missouri’s higher education entities discussed artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives for implementing the federal Workforce Pell program by July.
Mo. Gov. Mike Kehoe signed an executive order in January to prepare the state’s education and workforce systems for an AI driven economy.
The meeting held at the University of Columbia was between the Coordinating Board for Higher Education (CBHE) and the state’s Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (MDHEWD).
They also discussed the next steps to expand the state’s AI talent pipeline and data on the increased demand for AI‑related skills across industries.
Dr. Mun Choi, University of Missouri President, gave an overview of the University of Missouri System, which includes Mizzou, University of Missouri-St. Louis, University of Missouri-Kansas City and Missouri University of Science and Technology (commonly referred to as Rolla). Dr. Choi elaborated on enrollment trends, graduation rates, and the system’s economic impact. This included the research partnerships to support economic development and medical science and critical minerals advancements.
“MU continues to be a driving force for Missouri’s economic vitality, delivering innovation, research breakthroughs, and talent that strengthens our state’s future,” said CBHE Vice-Chair Allen Brooks.
A panel of Mizzou representatives discussed how research and innovation impacts advancing economic development while highlighting the work accomplished in AI, geospatial intelligence, nanomedicine and more.
Missouri has the opportunity to build responsive, future‑focused education and training pathways,” said Dr. Bennett Boggs, Commissioner of MDHEWD. “The University of Missouri demonstrates the value of institutions partnering with employers to ensure students receive the education, training, and experiences needed to address the state’s unique challenges.”
Also discussed was the status of state student financial aid programs, the impact of policies passed in the recent legislative session and budget planning.
For more information, visit the MDHEWD website.
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