OREM, Utah — Utah Valley University (UVU) President Astrid S. Tuminez, Utah Governor Spencer Cox, and executives from NVIDIA, a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning, recently signed a three-year agreement to provide extensive resources to train UVU students, faculty, and staff in applied AI.

The announcement comes on the heels of UVU announcing its new Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute,applied AI apprenticeship program, and master’s degree in applied artificial intelligence.

“UVU is taking a leadership role in applied artificial intelligence,” said Wayne Vaught, provost and senior vice president at UVU. “The NVIDIA agreement is another step in our evolution in teaching cutting-edge technology that our graduates will need in an ever-changing workforce. Thanks to the partnership, we can offer instruction that will dramatically increase the success of our students and the return on their educational investments.”

Utah’s other institutes of higher education and Utah government offices all signed the same agreement. The state of Utah and NVIDIA have designed it to be a collaboration among Utah’s universities, community colleges, and adult education programs to boost workforce training and economic growth in AI across the state.

A key aspect of the program is the certification of UVU faculty through the NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute University Ambassador Program. The certification offers training materials, workshops, and access to advanced AI tools and cloud computing platforms. Additionally, faculty will receive instruction in related fields like accelerated computing and data science.

This initiative is part of a broader effort by state and educational leaders to position Utah as a leader in AI innovation and workforce development. The program is designed to benefit new graduates entering the workforce and workers seeking to upskill in AI and technology.

The program will create hands-on AI internships and apprenticeships, helping bridge the gap between education and real-world industry needs. NVIDIA is already working on several projects across Utah in various fields, including biotechnology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and media, to make AI more accessible and help individuals use it to improve productivity and drive innovation. UVU envisions this collaboration playing a key role in its Valley Forge Innovation District in Vineyard, Utah.

It is a strategic move to ensure Utah remains competitive in the fast-evolving AI landscape, providing residents with the skills and opportunities to thrive in the tech-driven economy. The three-year agreement outlines a voluntary collaboration where all parties will share resources and expertise without exchanging funds. It focuses on advancing AI innovation while respecting confidentiality and intellectual property.