Microsoft Trains Millions of Construction Workers in AI with Free Courses

Expanded Partnership and Accessible AI Training

The expanded partnership between Microsoft and NABTU builds on a previous collaboration that already trained 1,500 instructors at hands-on training centers across the country. The two organizations are now launching cost-free AI literacy courses and industry-recognized certifications, aimed at making fundamental AI skills accessible to millions of skilled professionals in the construction sector. The collaboration includes the integration of AI education into NABTU's Joint Apprenticeship Training Committee (JATC) model and the creation of free AI courses available starting today on the LinkedIn Learning platform. These courses are open to instructors, leaders, apprentices, and construction trade professionals in North America, with participants able to obtain a market-valued and sought-after certification in AI literacy.

Partnership Extension to TradesFutures

The partnership also extends to TradesFutures, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Operating in 34 states, the TradesFutures Apprenticeship Readiness Program enrolls over 7,700 individuals annually and works with communities to recruit, train, and place participants in apprenticeships and careers in unionized construction. This program utilizes the Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3), an award-winning curriculum that introduces participants to the construction industry and prepares them to apply for the apprenticeship program of their choice.

Collaborative Curriculum Design

Microsoft and NABTU are working with faculties, instructors, and training directors at the JATC to co-design the curriculum and tailor AI use cases to the specific needs of the construction trades. The training leverages training centers spread across all 50 U.S. states and Canada. The delivery of practical learnings is carried out through the trusted union learning systems and Microsoft's LinkedIn Learning platform.