Center for Practical AI
Programs

Real Skills. Real Community.

From your first AI workshop to a full proficiency cohort. We meet you where you are. No technical background required.

Women's AI EducationCommunity Program

For women professionals in the Research Triangle

Women's AI Education

A supportive cohort experience that builds real AI confidence, from understanding how models work to using AI tools in your daily professional life. No technical background required.

Peer cohort learningFree to participantsResearch Triangle region
Learn About the Program
Community EventsCommunity Series

For professionals, policymakers & curious minds

Community Events

Monthly in-person and virtual events spanning AI ethics, tools, industry applications, and policy. A space to learn from practitioners and connect with your NC community.

Monthly cadenceFree & paid optionsStatewide
Browse Upcoming Events
Applied AI CertificationCertificationFlagship ★

For individuals, organizations & trainers

Applied AI Certification

Our flagship credential, designed for applied AI fluency across six domains — and built to advance you toward proficiency, the longer journey beyond. Earn it the way that fits you: Personal Training to get certified on your own, Corporate Training to bring it to your team, or the Certified Trainer Program to deliver the curriculum yourself.

Personal TrainingCorporate TrainingCertified Trainer Program
Explore the Certification

The CPAI Learning Pathway

How Our Programs Fit Together

Our programs aren't standalone offerings. They're a progression. Each one builds on the last, from first exposure to applied fluency — and points you toward proficiency beyond.

Awareness

Understand what AI is, where it shows up, and what it means for your field. No technical background needed.

Programs at this level

Community Events

Women's AI Education

Flagship ★
Fluency

Work with AI for real — applied fluency and the judgment to use it well, across six domains, with a capstone and a credential. This is what the Applied AI Certification is built to deliver.

Programs at this level

Applied AI Certification

Personal Training

Corporate Training

Proficiency

The longer journey beyond the credential — deeper specialization and orchestration. The certification advances you toward it; sustained practice carries you the rest of the way.

Programs at this level

Ongoing practice & community

Who We Serve

Who Our Programs Are For

CPAI programs are built for people from every background, sector, and level of AI experience.

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Individuals

Whether you're AI-curious or ready to go deep, we have a starting point for you. Our programs are built for working adults with no technical prerequisites.

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Organizations

Nonprofits, government agencies, and businesses partner with CPAI to build AI literacy across their teams through custom training and co-sponsored events.

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Communities

We work with community organizations, universities, and coalitions to expand AI education to underserved populations nationwide.

FAQ

Common Questions

Which program is right for me?+
If you're new to AI and want a supportive, community-based experience, start with Community Events or the AI for Women program. If you're an individual ready for a real credential, the Applied AI Certification is our flagship — see Personal Training for cohorts and self-paced options. Organizations looking to train teams should explore Corporate Training.
Do I need a technical background?+
No. All of our programs are designed for professionals from any field. We start with foundations and build practical skills. You don't need to know how to code.
How much do programs cost?+
Community Events range from free to a nominal fee. The AI for Women cohort is free to participants. The Applied AI Certification has a tuition cost (from $997 for individuals) — contact us for details and scholarship availability. Corporate Training is priced by engagement.
Are programs in-person or virtual?+
Both. Community Events are a mix of in-person (primarily Research Triangle area) and virtual. The Applied AI Certification is delivered in multiple formats — live virtual cohorts, self-paced, and in-person workshop series. Corporate training can be delivered on-site or virtually.
How long do programs run?+
Community Events are single sessions (2–3 hours). The AI for Women cohort spans several weeks. The Applied AI Certification runs as a 6-week cohort or self-paced — the format determines the timeline. Corporate engagements range from a half day to several months.
When is the next cohort?+
Cohort dates vary. Check the individual program pages or follow us on Eventbrite for announcements. You can also join our mailing list to be notified when applications open.
Not Sure Where to Start?

Let's figure out the right fit together.

Reach out and we'll point you to the program that matches your goals, schedule, and experience level.