The AI Economy Still Needs Beginners

At the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, computer science student Jaylen Carroll found an unexpected connection between artificial intelligence (AI) and horticulture. Drawing on his academic interests, he helped develop a digital visitor experience for the university’s Botanical Gardens. The project proved useful enough that the gardens hired him to continue the work. It is a modest success story, but perhaps a more revealing one than another billion-dollar AI announcement. A student applied technology to a real problem, discovered its practical value, and earned the opportunity to further develop his skills. This is what workforce readiness should look like....