Moorefield, W.Va. – Eastern West Virginia Community & Technical College (Eastern WVCTC) has been awarded $169,440 from the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education’s Technical Program Development Grant. The council is distributing more than $1 million to five community colleges across the state to support new training programs.
Eastern intends to use its share to launch a fully online, one-year certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence, pending final approval from the Higher Learning Commission, which is anticipated early this fall. The college will also introduce a stackable micro-credential in artificial intelligence through its workforce and continuing education division, designed to dovetail with the credit‑bearing program.
“Our goal is to offer cutting‑edge technology programs that meet industry needs,” said Eastern’s president, Dr. Tom Striplin, who authored the grant application. “Artificial intelligence is reshaping business operations, and preparing students for that demand is a top priority for our college.”
The curriculum will cover machine learning, data analysis and AI applications, providing students with competencies sought in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, finance and defense. With major technology companies helping to shape the coursework, graduates will be positioned to move directly into high‑tech careers. The Technical Program Development Grant Program helps community and technical colleges develop new, high‑impact training initiatives in partnership with employers.
