Saint Joseph's University and NEST Join Forces to Foster AI and Analytics Education

Advancing AI and Analytics Education

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Saint Joseph's University has partnered with NEST, a leader in integrated facilities management (IFM), to enhance education in artificial intelligence (AI) and analytics. This multi-year partnership aims to create immersive learning experiences for students and encourage the utilization of AI, machine learning, and data analytics in real-world applications.

NEST is set to sponsor the 2026 Saint Joseph's University High School Analytics Competition, which will see participation from 33 teams representing 14 high schools. This year’s competition will introduce the NEST AI Award, which will honor outstanding achievements in AI-related analysis and insights, marking a significant step towards integrating high-level analytics into educational settings.

The live event will be held on March 11, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Eastern Time, at the university. The top eight high school teams will present their analytics projects to a panel of judges who will offer evaluation and constructive feedback. Participating schools include Abington Senior High School, Camden Catholic High School, La Salle College High School, and more, showcasing a wide range of student talent in analytics.

Additionally, the partnership involves a semester-long data-mining project led by Dr. Kathleen C. Garwood, an associate professor at the university. Under her guidance, university students will collaborate with NEST to apply AI and machine learning principles to service pricing models. They will conduct weekly meetings with NEST executives and utilize real data in their models, fostering a practical understanding of how these technologies operate in a business environment.

Dr. Garwood expressed her enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “This partnership with NEST reflects our commitment to experiential learning and preparing students to lead in an increasingly data-driven economy. By connecting classroom instruction with real-world applications of analytics and AI, we provide students with the chance to cultivate essential skills and engage with industry leaders.”

NEST’s CEO, Rob Almond Jr., a Haub School of Business alumnus, emphasized the importance of linking theories to practical scenarios, noting, “Students learn best when they can connect classroom concepts to real problems and real data. This collaboration creates valuable opportunities for students to leverage analytics and AI, demonstrating how these fields influence decision-making in facilities management.”

NEST, established in 1994, is renowned for its comprehensive suite of facilities management solutions, including project management and financial consulting. Its pivotal role in leading the IFM industry in North America has been highlighted by a commitment to transparency, advanced technology, and informed decision-making.

The partnership highlights Saint Joseph's University's dedication to providing a dynamic education that meets the evolving demands of the job market. Founded in 1851, it has continually adapted its curriculum to prepare students for future challenges, emphasizing a strong liberal arts foundation alongside professional programs in various fields such as business, nursing, and health sciences.

With nearly 100% of graduates either employed or pursuing further education, the university empowers its students within a comprehensive framework that prepares them for successful careers.

As both organizations continue to strengthen their partnership, the future looks promising for students at Saint Joseph's University, who will undoubtedly reap the benefits of a curriculum enriched by collaboration with industry leaders like NEST.