FLC launches AI training for Four Corners professionals

Fort Lewis College is launching two new artificial intelligence training opportunities designed for people and teams across the region. Four Corners AI for Business and AI Foundations offer distinct entry points for building practical, responsible AI skills applicable in the workplace.

Four Corners AI for Business is a hands-on certificate program designed specifically for the Four Corners business community. Over six sessions, participants will work with AI tools across operations, financial management, marketing, and human resources, with an emphasis on building projects that directly relate to their own businesses and organizations. The program culminates in a full-day capstone where participants develop an AI roadmap, identify what is worth tackling over the next year, and work on one priority project alongside their cohort and facilitators. It runs October 15 - December 3, 2026, and is taught by Tomasz Miaskiewicz, associate professor of marketing in the School of Business Administration and distinguished fellow to the AI Institute, and local subject experts. Cost of enrollment is $399.

Businesses can purchase multiple enrollments in the course. At least one participant attends consistently throughout the program, while the additional enrollment can be used flexibly among team members, allowing employees to attend the sessions most relevant to their roles. Participants will also have the option to purchase an AI consultancy as part of the program, tailored to their specific needs.

Sessions are Thursday evenings from 4-6 pm during October 15 – November 19 at the Center for Innovation, 835 Main Ave Ste 225, Durango, CO 81301. Capstone intensive is on December 3 from 9 am to 5 pm. Registration closes October 5.

AI Foundations is a beginner-friendly, self-paced online training for people who are curious about AI and want a stronger understanding of how to use it. Registration is open.

Participants will learn what AI can and cannot do, how to choose the right tool for a task, how to write prompts that produce better results, and how to think critically about AI-generated outputs. The training also covers data privacy and security, including how to protect information and recognize AI-powered scams. The course is designed with our local community in mind, with uses and examples from the Four Corners. Early enrollment is available for $65 through October 5 and $99 thereafter.

Four Corners AI for Business was developed through a collaboration with local business leaders, FLC@WORK, the Katz School of Business, and the Fort Lewis College AI Institute. It brings together expertise in workforce development, business education, local challenges and opportunities, and artificial intelligence.

AI Foundations was developed by the Fort Lewis College AI Institute and FLC@WORK. Inspired by conversations across the Four Corners, the training was created to help people use AI effectively, safely, and responsibly.

“By combining the strengths of FLC@Work, the AI Institute, and the Katz School of Business, we can offer learning experiences that no one area could create alone,” said Phelps Feeley, Director of Workforce and Strategic Partnerships. “These courses connect AI with the realities of working and doing business in the Four Corners, giving people relevant skills they can use to strengthen their business and help our region thrive.”

As artificial intelligence changes the way people and organizations work, the region needs training that reflects local realities rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. These programs were developed for the Four Corners, with community input and collaboration, to help people better understand AI, explore its usefulness, and build the knowledge and skills to use it thoughtfully and responsibly.

For more information and to register, visit the website gowork.fortlewis.edu.

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