Getting Started in IT & AI Workshop

Exploring Careers, Skills, and Opportunities in Technology

Technology is transforming every industry, creating new career opportunities in Information Technology (IT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and digital services. This interactive workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of IT and AI, helping them understand career pathways, required skills, and practical steps to get started.

Participants will explore how technology works behind the scenes and learn how AI tools can support productivity, business operations, and everyday life.

No prior technical experience required.

Workshop Agenda

1. Welcome & Introduction (10 minutes)

• Instructor introduction and workshop overview

• Understanding today’s technology-driven economy

• Why IT and AI skills are valuable across industries

• Overview of technology career opportunities

Quick Activity:
Participants complete a short QR code survey to assess current technology experience and interests.

2. Understanding the IT Industry (20 minutes)

Participants learn how the IT field is structured and where entry-level opportunities exist.

Topics Covered:

• What Information Technology includes

• Key areas of IT:

  • Technical support

  • Networking

  • Cybersecurity

  • Cloud computing

  • Software development

• Types of organizations that hire IT professionals

• Typical entry-level roles in technology

Discussion:
What technology jobs exist in your community?

3. Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (20 minutes)

Participants learn how AI works and how it is used in everyday applications.

Topics Covered:

• What Artificial Intelligence is

• Examples of AI used in everyday life

• AI tools for productivity and creativity

• AI in business, healthcare, education, and government

• Responsible use of AI

Live Demonstration:
Using an AI tool to generate content, analyze information, or automate tasks.

4. Exploring Technology Career Pathways (20 minutes)

Participants learn about career paths and certifications in IT and AI.

Topics Covered:

• Entry-level IT roles

• Career progression in technology

• Industry certifications

• Technical vs non-technical tech careers

• Freelance and remote work opportunities

Examples of Entry-Level Paths:

• Help Desk Technician

• IT Support Specialist

• Cybersecurity Analyst

• Data Analyst

• Cloud Support Associate

5. Essential Skills for IT & AI Careers (20 minutes)

Participants explore the foundational skills needed for technology careers.

Topics Covered:

• Problem-solving and critical thinking

• Digital literacy

• Networking fundamentals

• Basic cybersecurity awareness

• Communication skills in technology roles

Hands-On Activity:
Participants identify their current skills and areas for growth.

6. Tools and Platforms Used in Technology (20 minutes)

Participants get an overview of tools commonly used by IT professionals.

Topics Covered:

• Operating systems and troubleshooting tools

• Cloud platforms

• AI productivity tools

• Collaboration and project management tools

• Remote support technologies

Demonstration:
Examples of simple tools used by IT professionals.

7. Getting Started with Learning IT & AI (15 minutes)

Participants learn practical steps to begin building technology skills.

Topics Covered:

• Free and low-cost training resources

• Online learning platforms

• Practice labs and simulations

• Building a technology portfolio

• Preparing for entry-level certifications

8. Building Your Technology Career Plan (15 minutes)

Participants create a basic plan for entering the technology field.

Topics Covered:

• Setting learning goals

• Identifying certifications

• Building experience through projects

• Networking and professional development

Exercise:
Participants outline their personal technology learning roadmap.

9. Questions & Open Discussion (10 minutes)

Participants can ask questions about:

• Starting a career in IT

• Training options

• Certifications

• AI tools and careers

• Freelance or remote tech opportunities

10. Workshop Feedback Survey (5 minutes)

Participants complete a QR code survey to provide feedback on the workshop.

What Participants Will Leave With

✔ A clear understanding of IT and AI career opportunities
✔ Knowledge of entry-level technology roles
✔ Practical steps to begin learning IT skills
✔ Exposure to AI tools and applications
✔ A personal Technology Career Roadmap

Who Should Attend

This workshop is ideal for:

• Students exploring technology careers

• Individuals considering a career change

• Job seekers interested in IT

• Small business owners learning about AI tools

• Community members interested in technology

No prior experience required.

Workshop Format

• Interactive presentation

• Demonstrations of real technology tools

• Guided exercises

• Career exploration discussion

• Live Q&A

Instructor

Jennell Hartford
Principal, DataTechRisk Solutions (DTRS)

Providing community-focused training in information technology, cybersecurity awareness, and digital skills development.