Employ Milwaukee, Milky Way Tech Hub and UNCOM Partner to Launch “AI Ready” Program Preparing Youth for the Future Workforce

Milwaukee, WI — Employ Milwaukee, in partnership with Milky Way Tech Hub and UNCOM, is proud to announce the launch of AI Ready: After School Future Workforce Program, a bold new initiative designed to prepare youth for success in an increasingly digital and AI-driven economy.

AI Ready is a four-week after-school program that equips high school students with essential digital literacy, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and workforce readiness skills placing young people at the center of the future of work. Through hands-on, project-based learning, students gain early exposure to the tools, mindsets, and competencies shaping today’s and tomorrow’s careers.

As AI and automation rapidly transform industries, workforce leaders across the country are grappling with how to prepare the next generation. This partnership represents a proactive, community-driven response ensuring youth are not left behind but positioned to lead. Julie Cayo, President and CEO of Employ Milwaukee states, “As AI and automation continue to reshape industries, our region must invest in the skills that tomorrow’s jobs will demand. The U.S. Department of Labor encourages workforce systems to strategically use Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds to help young people develop artificial intelligence skills – from basic AI literacy and digital competencies to more advanced training opportunities embedded across workforce programs. This partnership represents a proactive, community-driven response that ensures our youth gain meaningful exposure to AI learning and are equipped to compete in an evolving labor market.”

“Our mission at Milky Way Tech Hub is to ensure young people are prepared, empowered, and positioned to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.,” said Nadiyah Johnson, Founder of Milky Way Tech Hub. “By partnering with Employ Milwaukee and UNCOM, we’re meeting youth where they are and giving them practical, future-ready skills that build confidence, expand opportunity, and strengthen our regional workforce.”

Throughout the program, participants learn how to use everyday technology and AI tools for résumé building, interview preparation, organization, and productivity, while also developing an understanding of digital professionalism, cybersecurity, and responsible technology use. The curriculum connects these skills directly to real-world career pathways across multiple industries.

The inaugural AI Ready cohort will run from March 2–26, 2026, meeting twice weekly in an after-school format. The program supports WIOA In-School (High School) Youth and aligns with broader workforce development priorities focused on career readiness, digital fluency, and economic mobility.

Employ Milwaukee and UNCOM bring deep expertise in workforce development, youth engagement, and community-based service delivery, strengthening the program’s reach and impact. Together, the partners are building a scalable model for preparing youth to thrive in a rapidly changing labor market.

AI Ready reflects Milky Way Tech Hub’s continued commitment to bridging opportunity gaps and ensuring that the future workforce is skilled, diverse, and prepared.

To register for the AI Ready Program, visit https://milkywaytechhub.typeform.com/AI-READY or follow Milky Way Tech Hub on LinkedIn.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.