Talent Development
Talent Development
Preparing the workforce for an AI-powered future
AI is reshaping industries, creating new career opportunities, and changing the skills employers need to compete and grow. Meeting that demand requires developing the people alongside the technologies driving innovation.
Through partnerships with employers, educators, students, community organizations and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, DPI connects people to training programs, career exploration, work-based learning and industry experiences that prepare them for success in evolving economy.
Whether someone is starting their AI journey, adapting to new technologies, advancing their career or navigating a transition, DPI connects learning to meaningful careers and long-term economic mobility.
AI for everyone
AI literacy is becoming essential across every industry and profession. DPI helps learners at any stage, any time discover computing, develop technical skills, gain real-world experience that prepares them for careers in high-demand fields.
Data Science DISCOVERY
DS DISCOVERY is open-access platform through a cross-campus collaboration at The University of Illinois. Their mission is to provide open, accessible educational resources for you to gain a deep understanding of foundational concepts in artificial intelligence and data science.
Future Talent.
The workforce of tomorrow begins with the learners of today.
DPI works with schools and community partners to introduce young people to AI and advanced computing through engaging, hands-on experiences that build confidence and spark curiosity. Programs like Digital Explorers (Grades 6–8), Discover Computing (Grades 9–10) & Digital Scholars (Grades 11–12) help students develop foundational skills and inspire future career pathways.
Explore K-12 programs
Emerging Talent.
Connecting education to in-demand careers
As students move from education into the workforce, meaningful experiences and clear pathways can make all the difference. Through internships, networking opportunities, mentorship and summer programming, DPI creates access to valuable experiences that prepare students for success in high-demand fields.
Community College Pathways
Developed in partnership with educational institutions across Chicago, these programs help students transition successfully from high school to college and into technology-focused careers.
Summer Tech Interns
This micro-internship connects early- career college students with hands-on projects and professional experiences to build their technical skills, professional confidence and connections with Chicago's innovation ecosystem.
Advancing Talent.
Helping professionals adapt and lead.
Professional Development for Educators
Preparing the next generation of talent requires preparing the educators who support them. DPI provides professional learning opportunities for teachers and administrators focused on computer science content, instructional practices, educational policy and emerging technologies.
Academic Programs & Short Courses
Through graduate degrees, certificate programs and short courses offered in partnership with The Grainger College of Engineering, DPI helps learners and working professionals build the expertise that helps them remain competitive in an evolving workforce.
As AI transforms how work gets done, continuous learning has become essential for career growth and resilience. DPI helps professionals, educators and organizations develop the knowledge needed to work effectively with emerging technologies. Through DPI's professional development, technical training and AI-focused education professionals can stay current and competitive throughout their careers.
Employer & Industry Partnerships
Strengthening the talent pipeline.
Preparing the workforce of the future requires collaboration.
DPI partners with employers to strengthen existing talent pipelines and respond to evolving workforce needs at every stage. These partnerships build a skilled workforce that supports the innovation driving long-term regional competitiveness and growth.