Massachusetts to Offer Free Google AI, Tech Training to All Residents

On Thursday, Feb. 26, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey announced a new Massachusetts partnership with Google to provide free AI training and career certificates to residents. The Massachusetts AI Hub under MassTech will lead these efforts.

According to a Boston.com report, Google will offer professional certificates through its Grow with Google program. Users will be able to enroll in classes on topics covering cybersecurity, digital marketing, user experience design, data analytics, and more. Additionally, residents will be able to access a range of AI courses, including ones tailored for students, educators, small business owners, and people seeking new jobs. Google also recently launched its new “AI Professional Certificate,” which offers training in various skills. 

“We're giving, through Google, high-quality course access that's going to help people advance their careers and grow their businesses,” Healey said in a statement during a press conference on Thursday, Feb. 26. “It's available for anyone interested in a career in high-growth fields such as business intelligence, AI development, and other tech-driven sectors.”

State officials have also touted the free AI training, saying it is designed to help residents and small businesses build AI and technology skills needed for growing fields and enhance employment opportunities across the Commonwealth.

According to the Healey administration, the Grow with Google courses are aimed at those interested in “high-growth” technology fields. The courses normally cost $49 per month after a free weeklong trial. Those who want to enroll in a class can access the online form. The offer will run until at least the end of 2027. 

NewsCenter 5 noted that Healey's announcement comes two weeks after Healey said that Massachusetts would become the first state in the nation to deploy ChatGPT across the executive branch. This move seeks to upgrade government services and improve operating efficiency.