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 September 28 to December 7, 2024 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 5-8: AI and Machine Learning
The next four 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.
Weeks 9-10: Advanced AI Topics (Optional)
In the final two weeks, you’ll explore advanced AI topics that push the boundaries of what you’ve learned. These sessions will cover cutting-edge techniques and specialized applications, preparing you to tackle complex challenges in AI.
This structured approach ensures that by the end of the program, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of both foundational and advanced AI concepts, along with practical experience to apply in real-world scenarios.
*As this unique opportunity is new, the number of paid internships available is limited atthis time.
Fall 2024 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
September 28
– Orientation
– Project Blueprint
– Intro to Machine Learning
– Ethics part 1
2
October 5
– Planning ML Projects Project Blueprint
– Python Crash Course Coding with LLM in teams
3
October 19
– Case Studies using scikit-learn as well as Pandas, Seaborn, Matplotlib, and Data Processing
– Coding models from scratch
4
October 26
– Ethics in the Model Development Cycle
5
November 2
– Hugging Face and fine-tuning pre-trained models
6
November 9
– Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) and Agents
7
November 16
– Building demo websites using Streamlit
8
November 23
– Advanced AI Topics
9
November 30
– Advance AI Topics
10
December 7
– Grand Culmination Event: Team AI Project Presentations at
Dawson College
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.
