The East-AI Studio initiative will equip professionals with practical skills spanning the foundations of AI, machine learning and deep learning through to Generative AI and emerging Agentic AI systems.
It will give workers a rounded knowledge of AI, including how it works, how to use it to be creative and how to develop systems that act autonomously.
Backed with £300,000 funding from Innovate UK through the TechLocal AI Professional Degree and Traineeship Accelerator, East-AI Studio will combine intensive university-based learning with practical application within the workplace, allowing people to test and utilise their new skills for day-to-day challenges.
Project lead Dr Haider Raza said: “Our vision is to bridge the gap between learning AI and actually deploying AI in the workplace.
“AI is evolving incredibly quickly, particularly with Generative AI and Agentic AI. Yet many organisations still face the fundamental challenge of how to equip their existing workforce with the skills to move from experimentation to responsible, practical implementation.
“The goal is to help organisations build their own sustainable AI capability, rather than remaining dependent on external expertise.
“Ultimately, we want to create a flexible lifelong-learning pathway that allows people to continually update their AI skills as the technology and needs of their organisations evolve.”
Dr Raza will be supported by colleagues across the School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering to deliver the training, including Head of School Professor Reinhold Scherer and Head of Essex’s AI research group, Professor Hani Hagras.
East-AI studio will also create a flexible lifelong-learning route which will allow participants to continue developing their AI capabilities as the technology evolves.
University of Essex Vice-Chancellor Professor Bowen said: “East-AI Studio is a fantastic example of how Essex is working directly with employers to develop the skills needed for future jobs, productivity and economic growth.
“Our trailblazing academics continue to lead vital research into the rapidly developing world of AI and it’s wonderful to see their expertise and knowledge being used to upskill workers across different sectors.
“I wish Dr Raza and the team every success with the project and look forward to seeing it develop over the coming months."
Businesses and professionals interested in taking part in EAST-AI Studio, collaborating on workplace AI challenges, or finding out more about future training opportunities are invited to register their interest by contacting Dr Raza via h.raza@essex.ac.uk.
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