Hands-on AI workshops equip communities with practical, job-ready skills

Ohio University Regional Higher Education will host a series of in-person AI workshops this spring to help participants build practical skills they can apply immediately at work and in their communities.

Supported by a Talent Ready Grant, the workshops are open to community members, including local businesses, nonprofit organizations and community groups, as well as faculty, staff and students.

The workshops will be led by Dr. Jennifer Lisy and Dr. Basil Masri Zada. Each three-hour session will combine guided instruction with structured time for participants to experiment with AI tools and explore real-world use cases. Topics will include accessible AI platforms and practical applications, grant-writing support, and guidance on using AI for everyday tasks and broader process improvement.

“Regional Higher Education exists to expand access to learning and opportunity, and that includes preparing our communities for the tools shaping today’s workplaces,” said Dr. Lewatis McNeal, vice provost for regional higher education and partnerships. “These workshops reflect OHIO’s commitment to working alongside partners across the region, helping people build skills that support economic growth and community vitality.”

Tricia Denny, coordinator of RHE workforce initiatives and support, said the series was designed to meet the needs of both campus and community participants.

“Our goal is to offer training that is useful on day one,” Denny said. “Whether someone is strengthening a grant proposal, managing communications or looking for ways to improve operations, these sessions provide practical strategies and a clearer understanding of how to use AI responsibly and effectively.”

Each workshop will follow a consistent format that includes a whole-group overview, two topic sessions and a closing debrief. 

Participants are encouraged to bring a device, ideally a laptop, and arrive with a login for an AI tool they use or would like to try.

Workshop schedule

Workshops will be offered at Ohio University’s regional campuses on the following dates and times:

• Lancaster: Feb. 27, 9 a.m. to noon
• Chillicothe: Feb. 27, 2 to 5 p.m.
• Eastern: March 10, 1 to 4 p.m.
• Southern: March 12, 1 to 4 p.m.
• Zanesville: March 20, 9 a.m. to noon

“As a faculty member at Ohio University Zanesville, I’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of AI workshops through our local teacher training session,” Lisy said. “I am excited to share my expertise with all of Ohio University’s regional communities. The workshop design allows participants to explore generative AI tools, ask questions and try new strategies on the spot with support when things do not go as planned.”

Lisy is an assistant professor of instruction in teacher education and has led technology training nationwide. Masri Zada is an assistant professor of instruction in digital art and technology whose work connects digital tools, creative practice and teaching.

“As facilitators, we will be there to answer questions, demystify some of the GenAI uses, and discuss concerns that anyone could have based on their own field, including ethical, legal, copyright or privacy issues that could be relevant to them,” Masri Zada said.

Together, the facilitators will guide participants through examples and discussion to help them apply what they learn in ways that fit their roles and organizations.

To learn more, visit ohio.edu/regional/AI-workshops.