The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education recently awarded $150,000 in special project grants to colleges and universities through the UpskillOK Individual Program Grant Initiative, a strategic effort to accelerate workforce development and innovation across the state through micro-credential programs.
UpskillOK, the State Regents’ micro-credential initiative, addresses Oklahoma’s urgent need for a skilled workforce by supporting development of short-term, stackable learning pathways directly aligned with high-demand skills requested by employers. Micro-credentials empower individuals to re-enter the workforce, advance in their careers, and prepare for the evolving digital economy. This year’s grant program emphasizes integrating artificial intelligence (AI) fundamentals into educational pathways, ensuring Oklahomans are prepared for the future of work.
“These grant awards reflect our commitment to advancing Oklahoma’s workforce and ensuring state system colleges and universities remain at the forefront of educational innovation,” said Chancellor Sean Burrage. “By fostering collaboration between educators and employers and embedding AI literacy within our academic offerings, we are preparing Oklahomans for success in a rapidly changing workplace.”
UpskillOK Individual Program Grant awardees for fall 2025 are:
Oklahoma State University – Tulsa – Administrative Office Skills and AI ($15,000)
This program equips participants to use AI tools like ChatGPT, Otter.aim, AudioPen, and NotebookLM to streamline office workflows. Learners gain foundational knowledge of AI concepts, ethics, and practical applications to enhance communication, collaboration, and efficiency in administrative roles.
Northeastern State University – Prompt Engineering for AI-Driven Management ($15,000)
A five-week hybrid micro-credential teaches practical skills in designing prompts for AI-informed decision-making. Participants learn to create context-aware prompts that improve communication and efficiency across business, education, and tribal government, with emphasis on culturally-relevant applications.
Cameron University – Supporting Teacher Entry Pathways (STEP) ($15,000)
STEP Into Teaching helps paraprofessionals transition into teaching through scholarships and workshops. The program blends foundational teaching skills with AI integration, preparing participants for college coursework and future classrooms while strengthening Oklahoma’s educator workforce.
University of Sciences & Arts of Oklahoma – Human Resources: The Neurodiverse Employee ($15,000)
This program trains employers to recruit, onboard, and retain neurodiverse employees effectively. Participants learn evidence-based strategies and measurable competencies to create inclusive workplaces that leverage the unique strengths of individuals with autism, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, and other neurological differences.
Rose State College, in partnership with Oklahoma State University, Northeastern State University, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, University of Central Oklahoma, and Oklahoma City Community College – Introduction to AI in Education ($90,000)
A total of six micro-credential programs will be developed to provide educators with a foundation in AI concepts, ethics, and applications in education. Participants learn to evaluate implications, develop usage policies, and implement best practices for privacy and security, serving as a starting point for advanced training.
Awarded projects will focus on collaborating with local employers to develop micro-credentials aligned with workforce needs, integrating AI fundamentals and digital learning platforms into curriculum, providing enhanced student support and coaching services, leveraging local workforce resources and partnerships, and promoting micro-credential opportunities through dedicated outreach and communication. Funding supports student scholarships, program development, employer engagement, faculty training, marketing, research, and collaborative initiatives.
For more information about documenting learning and demonstrating competency through micro-credential programs or to connect with an Oklahoma college or university ready to partner with your business to develop a custom micro-credential, visit www.UpskillOK.org.