Maryland launches free AI training for 40,000 state workers

Maryland takes proactive stance on AI education: The state’s Department of Information Technology (DoIT) has partnered with InnovateUS to offer free artificial intelligence training to all state employees, joining a growing trend of government-led AI education initiatives.

• Maryland’s move follows similar programs launched in New Jersey and California, reflecting a broader recognition of the need for AI literacy in the public sector.
• The training aims to provide an overview of generative AI, best practices, and strategies to reduce risk associated with AI implementation.
• This initiative aligns with Maryland’s efforts to foster responsible innovation and prepare its workforce for the increasing integration of AI in government operations.

AI Subcabinet’s role in shaping policy: Maryland’s AI Subcabinet, established by Governor Wes Moore in January, plays a crucial role in facilitating ethical AI use across the state.

• The subcabinet is expected to release policies, playbooks, and road maps later this year to guide AI use in Maryland.
• These efforts are part of a broader strategy to create a “culture of responsible innovation” within the state government.
• The AI training program is seen as a cornerstone of the state’s approach to generative AI use, complementing the subcabinet’s work.

Comprehensive approach to AI integration: DoIT is undertaking several initiatives to ensure responsible and effective AI adoption in Maryland’s government operations.

• The department is working on creating a public AI inventory of active use cases, providing transparency on how AI is being utilized in the state.
• DoIT is collaborating with other state agencies to guide low-risk, AI-related pilot programs, fostering practical experience with the technology.
• The training program is designed to help state employees identify risks and opportunities more quickly, enabling effective and responsible AI implementation.

Collaborative development of AI training: The InnovateUS training program was created with input from a diverse range of stakeholders, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness for public servants.

• Over 100 contributors from the private, public, and education sectors provided input to shape the training content.
• Beth Noveck, New Jersey’s chief AI strategist and director of the Burnes Center for Social Change at Northeastern University, emphasized the collaborative nature of the program’s development.
• The training is tailored to address the specific needs and concerns of government employees working with AI technologies.

Broader context of government AI initiatives: Maryland’s AI training program is part of a larger trend of government-led efforts to enhance AI literacy and preparedness.

• Other states, such as Oklahoma, are partnering with tech giants like Google to boost AI literacy among government employees.
• At the local level, the National Association of Counties is offering an AI training program aimed at equipping county officials with essential AI knowledge.
• These initiatives reflect a growing recognition of the importance of AI education in preparing government workers for the technological changes ahead.

Implications for government efficiency and innovation: By prioritizing AI education for its workforce, Maryland is positioning itself at the forefront of government innovation and technological adaptation.

• An AI-literate workforce could lead to more efficient government operations and improved public services through the responsible application of AI technologies.
• The training program may serve as a model for other states and local governments looking to prepare their employees for the AI-driven future of public administration.
• As AI continues to evolve, ongoing education and training will likely become a critical component of maintaining an effective and technologically savvy government workforce.