#USA #Milwaukee #financial literacy #Associated Bank #AI Academy

Associated Bank's AI Academy: Empowering the Future Generation

This summer, Associated Banc-Corp is reinvigorating its AI Academy, a program designed to equip middle and high school students with valuable skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and financial literacy. Building on the success of its inaugural year, this enhanced program promises a more flexible, self-paced learning experience tailored to the evolving needs of today's youth.

A New Era of Learning

The AI Academy is a collaboration between Associated Bank and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, powered by Skillsoft. The initiative aims to provide foundational knowledge in AI and financial literacy, preparing students for a tech-driven future. Recruitment for participants started on June 22, with educational content kicking off on June 29.

Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Terry Williams, emphasized the urgency of such programs, stating, "Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the world around us, and we believe students should have opportunities to develop the skills and understanding needed to navigate that future." This program not only focuses on technology but also on instilling financial confidence and critical thinking skills.

Program Structure and Content

The 2026 iteration of the AI Academy introduces three distinct learning journeys, tailored to accommodate varying levels of understanding regarding AI and financial literacy. Students will engage in a self-assessment to determine the most suitable learning path for them. Each participating student is expected to embark on one learning journey this summer, with new content introduced weekly on Mondays.

Core Topics Include:

• - Understanding what artificial intelligence is and how it functions
• - Exploring AI applications in games, social media, and entertainment
• - Learning the fundamentals of machine learning
• - Data analysis and predictive reasoning
• - Basics of financial literacy and budgeting
• - The intersection of AI with finance and business
• - Online safety and digital responsibility
• - Ethical issues surrounding AI

All materials are presented in short, interactive modules that are mobile-friendly, allowing students the freedom to learn anytime, anywhere. Depending on their learning level, participants can expect to engage with 90 minutes to two hours of content weekly.

Flexibility and Engagement

This year's program has evolved significantly due to feedback gathered during last year's pilot. Williams explains, "By creating an on-demand experience, we're giving participants greater flexibility while maintaining a structured learning journey that encourages continued engagement throughout the summer." The curriculum has been scrutinized by curriculum experts to ensure age-appropriateness for middle schoolers, making learning both enjoyable and impactful.

As students navigate through the program, they will earn digital badges and achievements, while also being incentivized with 'AB Bucks' for course completions, skill advancements, engagement in optional content, and involvement in a concluding pitch event. A highlight of the program will be the upcoming "Student Pitch Showcase” event, which allows participants to showcase their newfound knowledge and skills.

About Associated Banc-Corp

Associated Banc-Corp, listed on the NYSE under the ticker ASB, boasts total assets approximating $50 billion, making it Wisconsin's largest bank holding company. Headquartered in Green Bay, the bank offers a comprehensive selection of financial products across various states, including Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska.

Their commitment to community development through educational programs like the AI Academy reinforces their role as a leading financial institution dedicated to nurturing future generations. Those interested in learning more about the academy and Associated Banc-Corp can visit www.associatedbank.com.