"AI for ALL" is Empowering Communities

BDPA is a leading organization committed to expanding opportunities for African Americans and other underrepresented groups in the IT and tech sectors. Initially known as the Black Data Processing Associates, BDPA continues to strive for excellence in tech-talent development. Established in 1980, BDPA Cleveland is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. BDPA’s “AI for ALL” initiative is a vital component of BDPA’s mission. This initiative aims to empower tech professionals, students, and young creatives with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic field of artificial intelligence (AI). 

Progress and Achievements

In February 2024, BDPA launched the 'AI for ALL' initiative by starting the development of content for the first two workshops in the series.

AI for ALL (Workshop #1)

On Saturday, April 20, 2024, BDPA conducted its inaugural 'AI for ALL' workshop at the Midtown Tech Hive, located at 6815 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44103. Twenty-seven participants attended with their laptops, as this and future workshops are designed to be hands-on experiences. The attendees included tech professionals, students, and professionals from non-tech fields, predominantly African American. The instructors, who are BDPA member volunteers with expertise in AI, delivered the following 3-hour agenda:

• The Emergence of AI
• How AI Works — Infrastructure & Tools
• How to Talk to AI — Prompt Engineering
• AI Challenges — Bias, Copyrights, Education, and  Policy
• Importance of Equity & Inclusion in the Development of AI

AI for ALL (Workshop #2)

On Saturday, June 29, 2024, BDPA held its second 'AI for ALL' workshop at the Midtown Tech Hive, 6815 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44103. The workshop saw an increased attendance of forty-five participants, including tech professionals, students, and professionals from non-tech fields, predominantly African American. The instructors, BDPA member volunteers with expertise in AI, delivered the following three sessions:

• AI Prompt Engineering — Combined Session
• AI in the Creative Arts — Breakout Session I
• AI Entrepreneurship — Breakout Session II

Plans for Expanding the "AI for ALL" Initiative

BDPA has developed a successful "AI for ALL" program and aims to expand its reach. Our expansion plan includes continuing bi-monthly workshops at the Midtown Tech Hive and establishing a second bi-monthly workshop location in Greater Cleveland. Potential venues for the new location include the Cleveland Public Library, El Barrio Centers for Workforce Development, or a Community Development Corporation site. We plan to present 12 "AI for ALL" workshops over a 12-month period in this second phase of the initiative, starting once funding is secured.

Currently, we offer three workshop modules: 1. Introductory AI for Beginners; 2. AI in the Creative Arts; and 3. AI Entrepreneurship. During this 12-month phase II, we plan to develop eight new specialized modules and accommodate 500 student participants.

Conclusion

The AI for ALL initiative by BDPA is designed to empower individuals from underrepresented communities with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to succeed in the AI field. By supporting this program, can help bridge the gap in tech diversity and create a more inclusive future for the industry.