AI Literacy and Application for Technical Professionals

Course Description

This asynchronous online course provides industry professionals with a practical introduction to artificial intelligence (AI) concepts and applications relevant to regulated and infrastructure-focused sectors. Participants will examine core AI terminology, explore real-world use cases across fire safety, transportation, compliance, construction management, and related industries, and evaluate how AI tools can support productivity, decision-making, and operational efficiency. Emphasis is placed on responsible implementation, governance, and ethical considerations in professional environments.

The course follows a problem-based structure that connects common workplace challenges to AI-enabled solutions. Learners complete self-paced modules that include short lectures, guided demonstrations, applied exercises, and knowledge checks. Oklahoma-based examples and industry case studies are incorporated to highlight regional adoption across multiple sectors. A final capstone activity supports transfer of learning by requiring participants to apply course concepts to a workplace scenario.

A short prerequisite module establishes shared baseline knowledge prior to the first instructional module. No programming background is required; participants should possess basic technical literacy. The modular design allows for periodic updates as AI technologies and industry practices evolve.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Define and differentiate core artificial intelligence concepts, including machine learning, generative AI, natural language processing, and computer vision, using appropriate professional terminology.

2. Identify AI applications relevant to regulated and infrastructure-focused industries and describe how these tools support operational and organizational objectives.

3. Analyze workplace tasks and scenarios to determine appropriate opportunities for AI-supported tools and workflows.

4. Develop basic AI-assisted workflows using structured prompting and task design techniques to improve efficiency and productivity.

5. Evaluate AI tools and solutions based on functionality, risk, governance requirements, and potential return on investment.

6. Explain key ethical, legal, and compliance considerations related to AI adoption in regulated professional environments.

7. Apply course concepts in a capstone activity by proposing an AI-enabled solution that addresses a defined workplace need.

Target Audience

Professionals working in technical or infrastructure-related industries, including fire safety, transportation, compliance, construction management, engineering support roles, public works, and related fields.

Prerequisites

• Basic computer and technical literacy

• Completion of a 30-minute self-paced pre-course module introducing foundational AI terminology and concepts

Instructional Level

Introductory to intermediate (awareness and application level)

Delivery Method

Fully asynchronous online course consisting of recorded instruction, guided demonstrations, readings, applied exercises, knowledge checks, and a capstone assignment. No live participation is required. Quizzes are graded and a minimum of 80% is required to pass each quiz.

Accessibility and Accommodations

CEAT Professional Development is committed to providing accessible learning experiences. Please contact CEAT Professional Development at ceatprodev@okstate.edu or 405-744-5714 prior to the course start date to discuss accommodation needs.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), learner education records are not released to third parties without the learner’s prior written consent, except as permitted by law.

Anti-Discrimination Policy

Oklahoma State University, as an equal opportunity employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding non-discrimination. Oklahoma State University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all individuals and does not discriminate based on race, religion, age, sex, color, national origin, marital status, disability, or veteran status with regard to employment, educational programs and activities, and/or admissions. For more information, visit the university's Equal Opportunity website.