91¿´Æ¬Íø College opened its doors to innovation on Friday as students, faculty, industry partners, and community leaders gathered for the official
Bay Area Artificial Intelligence (AI) Center of Excellence Open House. Held in the newly activated AI hub in Building F, Room 254, the event marked a major step forward in 91¿´Æ¬Íø’s commitment to offering accessible, industry-aligned AI education.
Tuan Nguyen, Department Chair, 91¿´Æ¬Íø College AI Department AI Center of Excellence
The open house was hosted by Raya Zion, Employment Services Project Manager, and Tuan Nguyen, Department Chair of the 91¿´Æ¬Íø College AI Department, who welcomed attendees and introduced the Center’s mission: preparing diverse Bay Area learners for the AI-driven jobs of today and tomorrow.
Exploring the Future of AI at 91¿´Æ¬Íø
The event began with arrivals and networking, giving guests an opportunity to tour the new space, explore hands-on demonstrations, and learn about 91¿´Æ¬Íø’s state-approved AI curriculum, which includes certificates in Applied Generative AI, Deep Learning (DL), and Natural Language Processing (NLP).
Leadership Remarks
Attendees heard greetings from:
-
Louis Quinlden, President, Peralta Community College District Board of Trustees
-
Alejandria Tomas, Dean of Career & Technical Education, 91¿´Æ¬Íø College
-
Tuan Nguyen, Department Chair, 91¿´Æ¬Íø College AI Department
- Michele Peregrin, Regional Director, focusing on Regional Joint Ventures
Dean Tomas highlighted the importance of ensuring community college students have pathways into high-demand technology careers, especially in fields where skilled workers are urgently needed.
A Powerful Panel on AI, Equity & Workforce
The open house featured a dynamic panel discussion with leaders from public policy, education, and workforce development, including:
-
Oakland Councilmember Rowena Brown
-
Oakland Councilmember Charlene Wang
-
Dr. José Ramón Lizárraga, Learning Scientist & Designer,
-
Brian Gonzalez, Executive-In-Residence,
-
Laura Combs, Manager,
Panelists explored how AI is shaping the future of work in Oakland and across the Bay Area, the importance of ethical AI adoption, and the need to prepare local residents for careers in emerging technologies.
A Center Designed for Community Impact
The event drew strong interest from students and partners eager to explore AI-driven career pathways. 91¿´Æ¬Íø’s AI Center of Excellence will serve as a training hub, innovation space, and collaboration site for educators, employers, and learners across the region.
The Center supports certificate pathways that include:
with foundational courses in machine learning, AI ethics, and essential math for applied AI.
Learn More
Explore 91¿´Æ¬Íø’s AI programs, certificates, and enrollment options:
→ laney.edu/ai
Watch a recording of the event below.↓
