AI Guardians Pathway

Dakota State University

About This Program

AI/ML is a rapidly expanding field with near-endless applications and developments. The AI Guardians pathway introduces learners to the world of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) and its applications in critical infrastructure, incident response, and in daily life. This pathway provides learners the opportunity to explore the AI/ML world without requiring a deep technical background or extensive mathematics. In addition, this pathway explores the impact of AI/ML on everyday life including discussions on DeepFakes, ChatGPT, and more.

About This Pathway

This pathway will empower learners with the basis of AI-enhanced cybersecurity skills, preparing them to protect critical infrastructure and respond to cyber threats. Mapping the AI training to the NIST NICE Workforce Framework for cybersecurity and critical infrastructure, the program is aligned with specific cybersecurity roles. These roles then define the tasks, knowledge, and skills required for positions in the cybersecurity workforce. Learners will leave the training with a better appreciation for cybersecurity and broader understanding of AI.

Program Structure

Consists of eight one-week courses, forming an eight-week program.

The first course begins on April 21, 2025.

Rolling Start Schedule:
New cohorts will begin every Monday from April 21 through July 7, 2025.
This flexible schedule allows students to start later, take breaks if needed, and still complete the program within the entire period.
Final Cohort: The last start date is July 7, 2025, ensuring all students will finish before the program ends.

Eligibility

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
  • The program provides FREE cybersecurity training and career development for transitioning military members, first responders, veterans, military spouses, and State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial (SLTT) government personnel.
  • Must have at least a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. (School transcripts of the highest level education completed are required.)

Prerequisites

Basic computer skills.

Cost

Free

Target Work Role(s)

(DCWF) AI/ML Specialist

Delivery Format

Asynchronous Online

Level

Entry Level

Industry Certifications Included

  • None

Start And End Dates

Courses begin 3/17/2025 and start every week until 5/31.

Duration (In Weeks)

8

Pathway Courses

  • Introduction to AI and Cybersecurity
  • Foundations of Machine Learning
  • Understanding AI in Critical Infrastructure
  • Cybersecurity Resilience
  • AI-Driven Threat Detection
  • Incident Response
  • AI Ethics and Policy in Public Safety
  • Final/Capstone

Digital Badges Awarded

Participants will be presented with digital badges upon the completion of each course and the successful passing of industry certification exams, contingent on the inclusion of a certification exam prep course in the pathway. Additionally, graduates of the pathway will be awarded with a pathway badge.

Apply to AI Guardians