Both the city and the university signed memorandums of understanding with NVIDIA to drive innovations in AI literacy, promote new uses of the technology and offer space to accommodate research, according to a news release Thursday. While the city works with the university to create AI training programs and career pipelines, it will use NVIDIA’s resources and networking opportunities to build up AI skills among city employees, for example through NVIDIA’s Deep Learning Institute, which offers live and self-paced training on topics like AI, data science, graphics and simulation. For its part, the university will work with both the city and NVIDIA to enhance its research in AI and machine learning, robotics and cybersecurity, and tailor new and existing educational programs to produce skills needed by particular jobs in the industry. It will also create and improve faculty development programs in these areas.
“This relationship focuses on high-demand fields such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and data science, ensuring our graduates are ready to excel in the next generation of careers,” SJSU President Cynthia Teniente-Matson said in a public statement.
San Jose may also encourage AI adoption through regulatory approvals or financial incentives for AI-driven projects, the release said.
The tech-forward city's latest agreement with the university and NVIDIA follows two years of investments in improving digital literacy and staying out in front of innovation. For example, San Jose's data upskilling program showed city staff how to integrate data into their work, and their GovAI Coalition convened technology professionals from public agencies across the U.S. to develop best practices and policy guidelines on AI. Just last week, the city hosted the coalition’s first summit in partnership with Government Technology.
According to the news release, Mayor Matt Mahan’s administration has also piloted AI tools in city services, starting the process of showing employees how these tools can improve government efficiency.
“We are fortunate to partner with one of the world’s most innovative companies to deliver public-sector innovation, underscoring our belief that AI's full potential can only be realized when it transforms the way that a government serves the community,” Mahan said in a public statement.
To reach the broader community, the city has agreed with NVIDIA to use events, workshops and mentorship programs to promote AI awareness, and work with SJSU and other partners, like the area workforce development board, to create AI training programs and career pipelines. The news release said the city may also work with NVIDIA and local utility districts to incorporate AI into sustainability initiatives.
