Virginia offers free AI training courses through partnership with Google

In an initiative aimed at addressing rising unemployment in Virginia, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced a partnership with Google on July 14, 2025, to provide free and low-cost artificial intelligence certification courses to the state's residents. The announcement was made during a news conference held at Google's office in northern Virginia, where Youngkin emphasized the importance of AI in various career fields, stating that skills in this technology are becoming essential in today's job market. This collaboration intends to support up to 10,000 Virginians at a time, helping them gain valuable AI skills amidst significant industry changes. The partnership comes in response to a growing number of unemployment claims in Virginia, with state reports indicating an increase in claims, particularly following extensive layoffs from the previous administration. In early July 2025 alone, roughly 2,800 individuals filed for unemployment, marking a 6.1 percent increase from the previous week. The initiative's goal is not only to provide immediate assistance to unemployed citizens but also to prepare them for the evolving job landscape shaped by advances in technology. Free training courses will be featured on a dedicated job website launched by Governor Youngkin, which was created to assist citizens in finding new opportunities following the economic shifts experienced in the state. The available training options range from introductory courses in AI fundamentals to more advanced boot camps and degree programs supplied by Virginia's leading educational institutions. Notably, all costs associated with the training will be covered by Google, ensuring that taxpayers will not bear any of the financial burden. Google's commitment to this initiative reflects its broader mission to promote economic growth and opportunities for citizens in Virginia. Bronagh Friel, head of partnerships at Google, expressed pride in the collaboration, highlighting the ongoing need for businesses in the state to adapt to advancements in artificial intelligence and how this training could empower Virginians to become competitive in their respective job markets. As the demand for AI proficiency continues to rise across various industries, this partnership is poised to enhance the workforce skills of Virginia's citizens, contributing to overall economic recovery and stability in the region.