Oklahoma State University joins Google AI for Education Accelerator

Monday, August 18, 2025

Media Contact: Mack Burke | Associate Director of Media Relations | 405-744-5540 | mack.burke_iv@okstate.edu

Program provides no-cost Google Career Certificates, AI training and tools to all OSU students, faculty and staff

Oklahoma State University will be among the first cohort to join Google AI for Education Accelerator, OSU System leaders announced today. 

The program is part of Google’s new three-year, $1 billion commitment to strengthen American education and workforce competitiveness through artificial intelligence training, research and tools.

“This partnership with Google is a shining example of what we can achieve when we work together to put students first,” OSU President Jim Hess said. “By bringing artificial intelligence and cloud computing tools directly into the hands of our students, we’re not just preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow — we’re preparing them to lead.

“We talk often about hands-on learning, and this is the real deal. These are cutting-edge tools being used by global innovators, and now our students — whether they’re in Stillwater, Tulsa, Okmulgee or beyond — will be learning with them.”

Dr. Hess said expanding access and opportunity is core to the land-grant mission. In a press release issued last week by Google, the company emphasized how technology creates opportunity. This new partnership will empower Oklahomans with critical AI and job-ready skills, setting them up for success and creating a skilled talent pipeline of workers in the state. 

“Oklahoma State University is among the first universities in the country to join the Google AI for Education Accelerator that launched on Aug. 6, 2025, giving Cowboys — students, faculty and staff — no-cost access to Google Career Certificates and AI training courses,” the release states.  

As part of the broader $1 billion commitment to American education and competitiveness that was also announced previously, all Oklahoma-based college students now have access to free Google AI Pro plan for 12 months and free AI training and job search support.”

Kyle Wray, senior vice president for system affairs, said the partnership positions OSU at the forefront of workforce development and innovation.

“As Oklahoma’s land-grant university, we remain steadfast in our mission to prepare students for success in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing world,” said Kyle Wray, OSU senior vice president for system affairs. “Partnering with Google allows us to combine OSU’s academic excellence and applied learning approach with Google’s cutting-edge technology, training resources and industry-recognized credentials. 

“This collaboration will empower our students and faculty to not only master the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven economy, but also to lead innovation, solve real-world challenges and strengthen Oklahoma’s role in the national technology landscape.”

In addition to the AI-focused learning opportunities, OSU Polytech, through the Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT), will directly support Google’s workforce needs for skilled electrical labor in Oklahoma.

Working in partnership with MidAmerica Industrial Park and Northeast Tech, OSUIT is delivering the Electrical and Electronics Technology Program, a workforce-aligned training initiative designed to address the growing demand for electrical technicians and engineers across the state, including those supporting Google’s advanced data centers in Pryor and Stillwater.

The program provides:

• Stackable credentials and microcredentials in industrial electrical systems, electric motor controls, PLC fundamentals and instrumentation applications.

• Hands-on training in modern labs equipped to industry standards.

• Career pathways for both new students and experienced professionals seeking to upskill.

This collaboration aligns with Google’s investment in the Electrical Training Alliance (etA) to expand Oklahoma’s pipeline of electricians by 135% by 2030, ensuring that the company — and the state — have the technical talent to build and maintain next-generation AI and cloud infrastructure.

Also, OSU-Tulsa has recently offered support to its students to complete Google's IT Support Professional Certificate, a credential that Google looks for when reviewing candidates for possible employment. Representatives from OSU-Tulsa Career Services and the OSU Computer Science department offer weekly support sessions complete with check-ins on certificate progress, tips and career advice for students engaged in the program.

“For nearly 80 years, OSU has delivered Polytech programs that provide hands-on education for high-demand careers,” Wray said. “Today, the need for skilled professionals in fields like electrical systems and emerging technologies is greater than ever. OSU Polytech plays a critical role in creating clear, accelerated career pathways that allow students to gain real-world experience, earn industry-recognized credentials and enter the workforce ready to make an immediate impact. This approach not only meets the urgent needs of employers, but also strengthens Oklahoma’s economic future.”