CompTIA unveils AI Essentials training resource

Artificial intelligence is changing how work gets done, creating new technology roles, and transforming the entire employment landscape. To help professionals better prepare and compete in the job market, CompTIA recently launched its AI Essentials program that promises to help learners develop skills in AI fundamentals.

CompTIA’s AI Essentials will focus on AI fundamentals to help professionals learn how to apply the technology in various scenarios in the workplace as well as give them an understanding of the legal and ethical use of generative AI.

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CompTIA data shows that AI is one of the leading development focus areas for active job seekers, and the organization’s Tech Jobs Report found that U.S. companies listed more than 77,000 job openings in December for AI occupations or jobs that require AI skills. Separately, LinkedIn’s Work Change Report, stated that by 2030, 70% of the skills used in most jobs will change—with AI being a catalyst. And 86% of more than 1,000 global employers surveyed in 2024 for the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report pointed to AI and information processing systems as a technology trend driving business transformation.

“CompTIA AI Essentials in tailored to help learners of all backgrounds master the fundamentals of AI,” said Katie Hoenicke, senior vice president of product development at CompTIA, said in a statement. “IT professionals, workers looking to progress from digitally literate to digitally fluent, students, and others can learn how to work with and leverage AI in any job role and at any career level.”

The CompTIA Essentials program provides self-paced lessons with videos, activities, reflection questions, and assessments. The training will help professionals distinguish AI from other types of intelligence and computing and teach them how to communicate about AI effectively. Students will also learn how to create AI prompts and navigate the privacy and security concerns that AI technology presents.

The program uses both realistic scenarios and practice activities to experience how AI is applied in real-world situations. According to CompTIA, topics covered in the training include how to engineer effective prompts, balancing innovation and privacy, and future AI trends.

Available now, CompTIA AI Essentials costs $129 and includes a license that would be valid for 12 months. CompTIA plans to release additional courses focused on business and soft skills developments in the coming weeks.