Eligibility Criteria:
- High school diploma or higher in a non-AI-related field
- Not currently enrolled in a postsecondary program
- At least one year of experience in a non-AI career
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- Preferred but not limited to resident of a rural area in Virginia or surrounding states
Application Requirements:
- Completed online application form
- Transcripts from all levels of education
- Personal statement (motivation, commitment, and support needs)
- One letter of recommendation from a previous supervisor or a colleague
Application Process:
Recruitment is conducted through awareness campaigns in rural regions and community partner networks. Prospective participants attend virtual or in-person advising sessions to discuss eligibility, background, and goals. Qualified applicants are reviewed by both JMU CARE and CGI representatives and undergo behavioral interviews to evaluate readiness and fit for the program. Selected participants begin the program in the Spring semester and engage in a structured 10-month journey combining academic learning and industry experience.
Participant Experience:
Participants engage in a comprehensive, three-phase Individualized Development Plan (IDP) designed to foster AI knowledge, technical skills, and professional growth. Each IDP is tailored to individual career goals and co-created by JMU faculty and CGI mentors.
Phase 1: Foundational Knowledge (Fall)
Led by JMU faculty mentors, participants build essential AI foundations through online modules, non-credit courses, and mentoring sessions.
Phase 2: Skills Training (Spring)
Co-led by JMU CARE and CGI mentors, participants receive targeted instruction through CGI’s Academia platform, building essential skills to prepare for the internship
Phase 3: Experiential Internship (Summer)
A 10-week internship at CGI where participants work on real-world AI and data-driven projects. Each intern is assigned a manager, coach, and mentor to ensure comprehensive support, professional evaluation, and networking.
**Internships are hosted at CGI’s Lebanon, VA office, where participants gain hands-on experience through a hybrid schedule that includes two to three days per week on site.**
Support Provided:
• Mentorship by faculty, peers, industry professionals, and graduate students
• Professional development webinars on leadership, communication, and networking
• Community-building events with AI professionals
• Financial support (e.g., tuition, childcare, travel)