Workforce Training

AI VoTech Pathway: Hands-On AI Training for Florida's Workforce

Learn data science, cloud architecture, and sustainability engineering through intensive, project-based training. Designed for displaced workers, career changers, and underrepresented talent seeking accessible pathways into high-demand AI careers.

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Program Overview

12–16
Weeks of intensive, hands-on training with real-world capstone projects
3
Specialized tracks: Data Science, Cloud Architecture, Sustainability Engineering
100%
Hands-on curriculum with industry-aligned projects and mentorship [source needed]
NWFSC
Partnership with Northwest Florida State College for credentials and support

Who This Is For

The AI VoTech Pathway is designed to create accessible entry points into AI careers for talented individuals from all backgrounds.

Displaced Workers

Career professionals seeking reskilling in high-demand AI and tech fields. Build new expertise while staying rooted in your community.

Career Changers

Mid-career professionals ready to pivot into data science, cloud engineering, or sustainability tech. Hands-on training accelerates your transition.

Recent Graduates

College graduates seeking practical AI skills and direct mentorship from industry practitioners. Build a portfolio with real impact.

Underrepresented Communities

We actively recruit and support Black, Latinx, Indigenous, women, and first-generation professionals in tech. GSI is committed to equitable access.

Sustainability Advocates

Professionals passionate about environmental solutions seeking technical skills to drive climate action and conservation work.

Self-Motivated Learners

No prior tech experience required. We welcome curious, committed learners ready to invest in their futures and give back to their communities.

Curriculum: Three Specialized Tracks

Our curriculum combines foundational AI concepts with hands-on, industry-aligned training. Choose a track that aligns with your goals, or customize a path across multiple areas.

Data Science Track

Learn to extract insights from data, build machine learning models, and communicate findings to drive business and research decisions.

  • Python for data science (NumPy, Pandas, Scikit-learn)
  • Statistical analysis and hypothesis testing
  • Machine learning fundamentals and algorithms
  • Data visualization and storytelling
  • SQL and database fundamentals
  • Real-world data projects and case studies
  • Model deployment and production pipelines

Cloud Architecture Track

Build, deploy, and manage scalable cloud systems. Learn AWS infrastructure, DevOps practices, and containerization for production-ready applications.

  • AWS fundamentals and core services
  • Virtual machines, networking, and storage
  • Containerization with Docker and Kubernetes
  • Infrastructure as Code (IaC)
  • CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices
  • Monitoring, logging, and security
  • Hands-on lab exercises and certifications

Sustainability Engineering Track

Apply AI and data science to environmental challenges. Build systems for environmental monitoring, climate resilience, and sustainable resource management.

  • Environmental data systems and IoT sensors
  • Climate data and modeling frameworks
  • Water quality, PFAS, and ecological monitoring
  • GIS and geospatial analysis
  • Environmental policy and regulation
  • Real-world sustainability projects
  • Integration with EPA and NOAA systems

All Tracks Include:

Professional development, industry mentorship, portfolio building, capstone projects with real-world impact, and job placement support. No prior experience required—we provide foundational onboarding for all learners.

Partnership with Northwest Florida State College

GSI partners with Northwest Florida State College to deliver accredited, industry-aligned training that bridges education and employment.

Why NWFSC Partnership?

Northwest Florida State College brings institutional credibility, funding access, and support services. Combined with GSI's industry expertise and mentorship, learners gain both credentials and real-world skills employers demand.

Educational Excellence: NWFSC curriculum design and accreditation. Industry Expertise: GSI mentorship, AI tools, and project-based learning. Support Services: Financial aid, advising, and career services. Local Impact: Training for Northwest Florida's growing tech and sustainability sectors.

Northwest Florida State College Partnership

Career Outcomes & Opportunities

Graduates are positioned for high-demand roles across data science, cloud engineering, AI systems, sustainability technology, and technical leadership.

Data Science Roles

Data Analyst, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Analytics Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst

$85K–$130K [source needed]

Cloud & DevOps Roles

Cloud Engineer, DevOps Engineer, Solutions Architect, Infrastructure Engineer, Site Reliability Engineer

$90K–$140K [source needed]

Sustainability Tech Roles

Environmental Data Scientist, Sustainability Engineer, Climate Resilience Analyst, Environmental Systems Engineer

$70K–$120K [source needed]

Employer Network

Graduates placed with GSI's partner organizations, local tech companies, environmental nonprofits, and remote-first employers.

80%+ Placement rate [source needed]

Startup Pathways

Many graduates launch their own ventures or join early-stage startups through Good Combinator and GSI's incubator network.

Further Education

Completion of the program positions you for advanced certifications (AWS, Google Cloud, Microsoft), graduate study, or leadership roles.

How to Apply

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The process takes . New cohorts begin in January, April, and September each year.

1

Submit Application

Complete our online application with your background, experience, and learning goals. No tech experience required.

2

Initial Review

Our team reviews your application to understand your fit and support needs. .

3

Interview

Speak with our admissions director and program lead about your goals and how we can support your learning.

4

Acceptance & Enrollment

Receive your acceptance, finalize enrollment, and connect with your cohort and mentors before day one.

2026 Cohort Dates

Applications Open:
Winter/Spring Cohort 2026 — Classes Begin
Applications Open:
Spring/Summer Cohort 2026 — Classes Begin
Applications Open:
Fall Cohort 2026 — Classes Begin

Financial Support

GSI offers need-based scholarships, payment plans, and access to workforce development funding for eligible workers. Discuss financial options during your interview. Contact doug@goodsamaritaninstitute.org for questions about affordability and support. [source needed]

Frequently Asked Questions

What skills do I need to apply? +
No prior tech experience is required. We welcome learners from all backgrounds with a strong work ethic and curiosity about technology. Basic computer literacy and algebra are helpful, but not required. We provide foundational onboarding for all participants to ensure success.
Is there a time commitment? +
The AI VoTech Pathway is intensive and full-time. Expect to dedicate 40–50 hours per week to classes, labs, projects, and study. This full-time model allows us to compress 12–16 weeks of learning into skills that typically take 6+ months. We recommend dedicating this time to maximize your learning and outcomes.
Can I work while doing the program? +
The program's intensity makes simultaneous full-time employment very challenging. We recommend treating the program as your primary focus. If you're employed, discuss flexibility with your employer or consider the program timing strategically. GSI can discuss specific situations during your interview.
What if I don't have a college degree? +
You don't need a college degree to apply. GSI's mission is to create accessible pathways for talented people from all backgrounds. We evaluate your application holistically, considering your experience, motivation, and fit for the program. Your readiness to learn matters more than credentials.
What will I build during the program? +
You'll build real projects that solve actual problems. Data Science track students build machine learning models on real datasets. Cloud Architecture students deploy production applications. Sustainability students develop environmental monitoring systems. All projects become portfolio pieces you can show employers. Your capstone project is often your first major professional accomplishment.
Is there job placement support? +
Yes. GSI provides career coaching, interview preparation, portfolio review, and connections to our employer network. Many graduates are placed with GSI's partner organizations, local tech companies, and remote employers. We're invested in your success after graduation.
Can I pick my track mid-program? +
Curriculum is fixed to ensure coherence and depth. However, all tracks include foundational AI concepts, and you'll have exposure to multiple domains. Some students specialize further after the program or pursue certifications in areas they want to deepen. Discuss customization options during your interview.
What's the location and format? +
Training is in-person at Good Samaritan Institute in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. We believe the cohort experience, hands-on labs, and community-building are essential to the program's success. Point Preserve campus provides workspace, resources, and the foundation for deep peer learning.
What happens after I graduate? +
You join the GSI alumni network—a community of purpose-driven practitioners in AI, sustainability, and civic tech. Many participate in Good Combinator, mentor newer cohorts, or stay engaged with GSI's mission. You'll have lifelong access to our community, resources, and mentorship.

Ready to transform your career and build something that matters?

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