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From AI Training to Workplace Innovation: A Higher Education Success Story

Writer: Cherie ThackerCherie Thacker

In today's shifting higher education landscape, colleges seek practical ways to enhance efficiency and student engagement. Michael Barnes, Marketing & Communication Coordinator at Hocking College, demonstrated this firsthand by applying insights from our Intel Corporation-powered AI OWL training to create real workplace solutions. 

His success joins hundreds of other organizations that have embraced this program to drive meaningful change. Here's the story from Hocking College:


Transforming Daily Operations Through AI

"The AI training I received as an employee at Hocking College with AI OWL has changed my personal and professional life in a meaningful way," shares Michael. 

His journey from training to implementation demonstrates how AI can seamlessly integrate into educational institutions' daily operations.


Meet Herald: The Newsletter Revolutionary


Michael's first innovation was Herald, an AI bot developed during his training project. This digital assistant has become an integral part of the college's communication strategy, crafting weekly recaps that keep the campus community informed and connected.

"Herald writes weekly recaps with few keystrokes to prompt it with resounding results, allowing me to cover more stories of what's happening in and around campus," Michael explains.

The impact has been significant. Faculty and students regularly compliment Herald's writing, and Michael often overhears campus conversations about Herald's coverage.


"When I walk the halls and hear someone talking about something covered in the Herald, I crack a smile knowing that this tool is helping to shape dialogue on campus and is bringing people together."

Introducing Gethanael: The Marketing Efficiency Expert


Collaboration with AI OWL's developers led to Michael's second innovation: Gethanael, a specialized marketing assistant.

This AI solution streamlines the marketing department's workflow by processing and distributing dozens of weekly marketing requests to the appropriate team members.


While the task might seem straightforward, its impact on operational efficiency is substantial. "It saves me a lot of time and helps to keep our marketing team accountable on all of our projects," Michael notes.

The Human Touch in AI Implementation


One of the most interesting insights from Michael's experience is the value of incorporating personality into AI tools. "Giving your AI a little personality should not be underestimated," he emphasizes. Herald, for instance, is programmed to offer compliments and share inspiring quotes – small features that make a significant difference in the workday.


"When I am scrambling to keep up, Herald and Gethanael are right there to inspire me and let me know I have a great team at my fingertips," Michael reflects. This human-centric approach to AI implementation demonstrates how technology can enhance rather than replace human interaction in the workplace.

Conclusion


Michael's success story at Hocking College exemplifies the transformative potential of AI training in higher education.


And honestly, it’s not just about education. AI has relevance and amazing use for every single industry.


This is AI in Action. This is AI OWL.

Man with short dark hair and a beard, wearing a blue checkered shirt and navy blazer, stands against a light gray background, looking calm.

Originally posted to LinkedIn.

 
 
 

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