Even if you're furloughed, your skills don't have to be

"For federal employees caught up in the current shutdown, there's not a lot anyone can do but wait. Offices are closed, projects are paused and even email inboxes have gone dark. But while the government may be standing still, your skills don't have to be. Now might be a great time to take some of those comprehensive classes that you never had time for, especially if they teach critical skills like how to effectively program and employ artificial intelligence."

"To that end, Google is stepping up with the launch of an entire set of free online courses to teach people, including furloughed feds, how to use AI to boost productivity and prepare for what's next as AI continues to evolve in new and unexpected ways. The program is part of Google's Grow with Google initiative and focuses on AI literacy, practical prompting and real-world applications."

"The centerpiece is the AI Essentials course, a self-paced program that takes about 15 hours to complete and requires no prior experience. The curriculum covers everything from how generative AI works to how to use it safely and responsibly in the workplace. There are also specialized modules for educators and new users who want to integrate AI tools into their daily tasks."

Federal shutdowns have paused government work and left many employees idle. Google launched free online AI courses to teach AI literacy, practical prompting and real-world applications. The Grow with Google program centers on AI Essentials, a self-paced, roughly 15-hour course that requires no prior experience and covers generative AI, workplace safety, and responsible use. Specialized modules target educators and new users seeking to integrate AI into daily tasks. The courses are available to anyone and Google is partnering with state governments to expand access; Oklahoma gave over 10,000 residents access and will receive broader Google investment.

Read at Nextgov.com