Created to meet rising demand for accessible, workforce-ready AI education, the certificate stands out for its hands-on format. Participants don’t simply learn about AI, they build a toolkit they can use right away, including prompt libraries and practical workflows tailored to their roles. The program culminates with a capstone presentation, where participants demonstrate an AI solution such as a chatbot, automated workflow or AI-enhanced process.

The course was designed and is taught by a team of instructors: Mustafa Akben, Rebecca Macy and Scott Oakes. Mustafa Akben, director of artificial intelligence integration, said the course is structured to move learners from curiosity to confident implementation.

“We designed our program to be deeply hands-on so that participants can start applying what they have learned from day one,” Akben said. “By the time they finish, they have both studied the theoretical foundations of AI and built a functional tool that is immediately implementable in their specific professional context.”

For alumni participants, the inaugural cohort offered a mix of technical skill-building and a mindset shift — seeing AI as a strategic partner rather than an intimidating unknown. Kenisha Walton ’99 said the experience helped her realize she could “do” AI and treat it as a strategic partner. Kenneth Page Jr. G’06 said he was surprised by “the bottlenecks that can be solved” through automation. Tracey Campbell ’99 called the program “game changing,” noting it helped her work more efficiently day to day. Haydn Stucker ’23 said the class helped him shape ideas into “realistic applications.”

The certificate is taught by Elon faculty with expertise in AI and its real-world applications, creating an environment that fosters discussion, peer learning and ongoing connection.

“Teaching AI to Elon alumni through Elon NEXT is especially meaningful to me as both an Elon alum and a faculty member in the Love School of Business,” said Scott Oakes, assistant teaching professor of management. “Bringing practical AI into real business contexts for fellow alumni feels like a true full-circle moment.”

While the program emphasizes practical skill building, it also reflects Elon’s broader approach to learning, which is high-touch, community-driven and designed for real-world relevance.

“We wanted participants to feel supported as they explored AI in ways relevant to their own contexts,” said Kristin Walker, associate director of professional and continuing studies. “Hearing them describe leaving with deeper understanding, practical tools, renewed confidence and a sense of momentum was exciting to see.”

Offered through , a program of the Office of Professional and Continuing Studies, the certificate reflects Elon’s commitment to meeting the emerging needs of the modern workforce while creating learning pathways that remain accessible to busy professionals. The inaugural cohort marks an important milestone in this work, with future cohorts planned.

Discover upcoming opportunities to deepen your AI skills with Elon NEXT.

Though expected to last from 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., the event was cut short due to an ice cream shortage after over 1,000 individuals stopped by.

The students’ ticket to ice cream was a quick “follow” or “like” on one of the SPDC social media platforms to ensure individuals would be further informed on upcoming career opportunities or events at the SPDC. The SPDC staff were thrilled to see many who came by the event were already following “Elon Careers” on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and Snapchat.

While students waited in line, SPDC student workers collected data on the current effectiveness of the SPDC’s communication with students and how it can be improved in the future.

Students who were surveyed had several common responses. While many reported they commonly hear about job opportunities from an array of resources, they would prefer a universal email notification when there are relevant career opportunities available in the future.

The Elon Job Network (EJN) currently offers over 500 jobs for Elon students and new job and internship opportunities are posted daily. These jobs span all 50 states as well as international opportunities.

The SPDC reviewed the survey feedback thoroughly and hopes to continue to expand and modify their network in the future.

“We are excited that through this event, we could learn from students and let them know we are here to help them achieve their career goals,” said Kristin Walker, Recruiting and Event Coordinator for the SPDC and main organizer of this event. “The SPDC would also like to thank Enterprise whose contribution made this event possible.”

The SPDC staff were overall exhilarated by the number of attendees and intend on making the “SPDC Extravaganza” an annual event. If you weren’t able to make it this year, you definitely won’t want to miss it next year.