An exciting opportunity for CÉGEP students and working professionals to delve into the perfect fusion of AI technology and ethical considerations while making use of LLMs, (Large Language Models). Through our AI Accelerator Programs, participants can engage with LLMs, such as ChatGPT, and gain a deep understanding of their capabilities, limitations, and risks, while exploring how they can be used to apply AI for practical applications.
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About the Program / What to Expect
Launching this summer in partnership with Dawson AI and Mitacs, the AI Accelerator Program represents the next step in R&D program initiatives, providing college students with the opportunity to work on real-world projects. The new 10-week online program provides the tools and exposure needed to enable students from all disciplines to launch their careers in AI. In addition, the program could be followed by a paid internship for college students by Mitacs in collaboration with organizations or companies.
Over the course of 10 weeks, from February 15 to April 16, 2025 we will immerse ourselves in the realm of Artificial Intelligence and its ethical considerations
Week 1 – 4: Foundational Skills
In the first four weeks, you’ll build a strong foundation in essential skills such as programming, data handling, and data cleaning.These foundational skills will equip you with the necessary tools to succeed in more advanced AI and machine learning concepts.
Week 5-10: AI and Machine Learning
The next six weeks will focus on core AI and machine learning topics. You’ll dive into key algorithms, fine-tuning models, and practical applications, gaining hands-on experience through projects and exercises. You will also have an opportunity to participate in the Data Journalism Challenge hosted by Dawson College.
Winter 2025 Cohort’s Schedule and Topics
* During the workshop on each Saturday, students will have an opportunity to collaborate with their teammates to work on their AI project.
* Workshops will be given in English
1
February 15
– Orientation
– Project Blueprint
– Intro to Machine Learning
– Ethics in AI (Part 1)
2
February 22
– Exploring AI for Good
– Python Crash Course
3
March 1
– Sci-kit Learn, Pandas, Seaborn, Matplotlib, Data Processing & Cleaning
4
March 8
– Ethics in the Model Development Cycle
– Hugging Face– Fine-Tuning Models
5
March 15
– Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG)
– AI Agents
6
March 22
– Data Journalism Challenge
7
March 29
– Ethics in AI (Part 2)
– Current Trends in AI
8
April 5
– Streamlit : Building a Demo Website for AI Projects
9
April 12
– CV Building
– Portfolio
– Pitching Projects
– Mitacs Opportunities
10
April 26
– AI Project Student Presentations
Testimonials
Hripsime Danielyan
Pierre Tardivo Martin
Ibrahima Keita
Accessible
The programs are part-time and designed to be accessible for students and those who are working, as well as for those who are differently abled
Rigorous
Learn and acquire real world, state of the art skills and experience in AI through creation supported by mentorship, and push the boundaries of AI in research and development projects
Affordable
Income and wealth should never be barriers to access and education, especially in a field that is as transformational and pivotal as AI. Representation and decision-making power in the AI community must reflect the broader population in order to have AI that benefits and does not reinforce and accelerate inequality of opportunity
Diverse
R&D programs strongly support diversity in tech and strive to promote a more inclusive tech culture by prioritizing the empowerment of and the selection of women, LGBTQ2S individuals, visible minorities, immigrants, those of all ages, Indigenous Peoples, and disabled or differently abled individuals
Winter 2024 R&D Programs
Summer 2021 R&D Programs
Summer 2021 R&D ProgramsReal world, state-of-the-art (and beyond) projects
From combining operations research and machine learning in order to attempt to inject emotions into AI as a step towards AGI to the intersection of virtual and augmented reality (XR) and AI in order to enable the next generation of digital experiences, our AI R&D projects are at the cutting edge of what is (and isn’t yet) possible.
CHECK OUT PAST PROGRAMS & PROJECTSTailored learning designed for each project
We aren’t in the business of offering cookie-cutter, one-size-fits-all curriculums. AI is constantly moving forward and we think the most valuable approach is in diving deeply into each new and distinct challenge and problem solving forward with a focused and relevant plan of action using the newest and most efficient tools available. Each project offered is unique, and a learning plan and timeline will be designed in order to acquire the most modern and valuable experience and skills in order for the best chance to build something truly great.
Community and passion
Beyond a program that offers the best projects and learning experiences possible, we aim to enable the creation of a strong and diverse community. In it we hope you will find connections that last a lifetime, experiences to cherish forever, and a growing passion to change the world. Learning done well can be both fun and meaningful.
