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Summer 2026 AI Training Challenge

Summer 2026 AI
Training
Challenge

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Empower Your Workflow

As Artificial Intelligence continues to transform how we operate, Rice University is committed to ensuring every staff member has the tools, skills, and confidence to navigate this new landscape.

The Summer 2026 AI Training Challenge is your opportunity to build practical knowledge, explore innovative tools, and learn how to use AI thoughtfully, responsibly, and effectively in your specific role. All staff members are asked to complete four hours of AI-related training by August 31, 2026.

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The Challenge Goal

Complete at least 4 hours of AI professional development by August 31, 2026.

This challenge is intentionally flexible. Whether you are an absolute beginner or looking to sharpen advanced skills, you can choose the learning opportunities that best fit your role, schedule, and interests.

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Ready to Get Started?

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  1. Explore Courses: Browse available AI modules below or seek and receive approval from your supervisor to attend/enroll and complete external AI training as deemed appropriate.
  2. Register for Sessions: Sign up for upcoming live webinars.
  3. Log Your Hours: Keep track of your progress and submit your completed 4 hours by August 31, 2026.
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Choose Your Learning Path

Mix and match your 4 hours of training from a variety of flexible options:

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Live Virtual Training:

Join interactive sessions hosted by Technology Solutions & Services or Rice Digital Learning.

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Self-Paced Learning:

Access curated, on-demand AI modules via iO Learning & Development.

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Workshops & Conferences:

Count your attendance at approved AI-focused professional workshops or industry conferences.

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External Trainings:

Enroll, attend, and complete external AI training approved by your supervisor.

Why Participate?

Mix and match your 4 hours of training from a variety of flexible options:

Enhance Efficiency

Enhance Efficiency

Discover how AI can streamline administrative tasks and save you time.

Boost Creativity

Boost Creativity

Learn to use AI as a collaborative brainstorming and problem-solving partner.

Stay Ahead

Stay Ahead

Build a strong, consistent foundation for continued technical growth at Rice.

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In-Person & Live Trainings

In-Person Trainings

July 2026

August 2026

In-person

AI Workplace Efficiency: Optimize Your Workflows

August 7, 12:00 p.m.
In-person

Leveraging AI in Marketing

August 31, 1:00 p.m.

Live Trainings

Live-synchronous training offered collaboratively by Technology Solutions & Services and Rice Digital Learning.

July 2026

Virtual Intro to using Gemini & prompt engineering
Jul 20, 10:30 a.m. Closed
Virtual Intro to creating custom GEMs in Gemini
Jul 29, 1:30 p.m. Closed

August 2026

Virtual

Intro to creating custom GEMs in Gemini

Aug 5, 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Intro to NotebookLM
Aug 6, 10:00 a.m. Closed
Virtual

Intro to NotebookLM

August 10, 10:00 a.m.
Virtual

Intro to creating custom GEMs in Gemini

August 14, 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Visualizing Ideas with Gemini and Adobe Express
Aug 18, 10:00 a.m. Closed
Virtual Intro to NotebookLM
Aug 18, 3:30 p.m.
Virtual From Business Intelligence to Artificial Intelligence | Live Online
Aug. 3–26, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Rice Staff: $975
Virtual

Intro to creating custom GEMs in Gemini

August 25, 10:30 a.m.

On-Demand Courses, Trainings, & Recordings

On-Demand Courses

Offered by Rice Digital Learning

To help you cross the finish line for the Summer 2026 AI Training Challenge, we’ve added a versatile suite of self-paced Grow with Google courses organized around your specific professional goals. Whether you want to master foundational concepts, build tool confidence, or explore ethical frameworks, you can easily find a path that fits your day-to-day workflow. Check out the full lineup and choose your next learning path by visiting the AI Summer Challenge collection.

Offered by Rice Digital Learning

Offered by Operations, Finance & Support

Offered by Human Resources

Note: Users must be logged into io to access.

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Grounded in Rice’s Responsible AI Strategy

This initiative follows our recent Administrators’ Forum, where leadership highlighted Rice’s commitment to fostering operational excellence through technology.

Missed the forum or want a refresher?

View the presentation recording & slide deck on the Admin Forum Webpage
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Contact

Questions? Contact Rice
Digital Learning at