Associated Banc-Corp Launches Expanded AI Academy for 2026

The AI Academy is developed in partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee and is powered by Skillsoft. The program is designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in artificial intelligence while simultaneously addressing how technology is transforming the landscape of work, finance, and daily life.

Terry Williams, Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Associated Bank, expressed the bank’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of tech-savvy individuals. “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,” said Williams.

Recruitment for the AI Academy commenced the week of June 22 across various Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, including locations such as Davis, Daniels-Mardak, Fitzsimonds, Hillside, and Mary Ryan. The learning content officially kicked off on June 29, with students encouraged to engage in a structured yet flexible learning journey.

The 2026 AI Academy introduces three distinct learning pathways, allowing participants to assess their current understanding of artificial intelligence and financial literacy. Each student will undertake a self-assessment to identify the most suitable learning path. Throughout the summer, students will progress through weekly content modules released each Monday, covering a range of topics including:

Content delivery is designed to be mobile-friendly and accessible anytime, anywhere, allowing students to engage with approximately 90 minutes to two hours of interactive content each week. The program aims to maintain participants' engagement while providing the flexibility they need during the summer months.

"The evolution of this year's program reflects what we learned from students and families during our pilot," Williams noted. "By creating an on-demand experience, we're giving participants greater flexibility while maintaining a structured learning journey."

To motivate students, the program includes digital badges and achievements, rewarding participants for completing coursework and skill gains, engaging with optional content, and taking part in a pitch event at the end of the academy. The culmination of the program will feature a "Student Pitch Showcase," where participants will have the opportunity to present their newfound knowledge and skills.

Associated Banc-Corp is the largest bank holding company based in Wisconsin, with total assets approximately amounting to $50 billion. Headquartered in Green Bay, the bank operates over 200 banking locations across several Midwest states including Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, and Nebraska, while also maintaining loan production offices in various other states.

As the AI Academy gears up for another successful year, Associated Banc-Corp continues to demonstrate its commitment to fostering financial literacy and technological proficiency among the youth, ensuring they are well-equipped for the future workforce.