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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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Available Virtual Trainings

Synchronous Trainings

Synchronous trainings offered collaboratively by Technology Solutions & Services and Rice Digital Learning.

June 2026

Virtual Brand Bots with Gemini Gems
Jun 30, 10:00 a.m.

July 2026

Virtual Custom Gems for Your Team
Jul 15, 10:00 a.m. Closed
Virtual Intro to using Gemini & prompt engineering
Jul 20, 10:30 a.m.
Virtual Intro to creating custom GEMs in Gemini
Jul 29, 1:30 p.m.

August 2026

Virtual Intro to NotebookLM
Aug 6, 10:00 a.m.
Virtual Making Data-Driven Decisions with Agentic AI
Aug. 3 - 26, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Rice Staff: $975

Available In-Person Trainings

June 2026

In-person Intro to using Gemini & prompt engineering
Jun 25, 10:00 a.m. Closed
In-person Intro to creating custom GEMs in Gemini
Jun 30, 1:30 p.m. Closed

July 2026

In-person Intro to NotebookLM
Jul 16, 1:30 p.m. Closed
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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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