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How Newman University Is Bridging the Technology Gap for Regional SMBs

Newman University is addressing the regional technology gap for SMBs with new degree programs and bootcamps in data science and AI. The initiatives aim to upskill the local workforce and connect students with industry partners in the Kansas economy.

-- Newman University is introducing new degree programs and professional bootcamps to support regional small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The initiatives address the local technology gap by training the workforce in high-demand fields such as data science and artificial intelligence (AI), focusing on practical skills.

More information is available at https://newmanu.edu/academics/data-science-ms.

These new offerings respond to a critical challenge in the current business environment. Recent industry analysis shows many small and medium-sized enterprises lack access to the skills needed for digital transformation. This shortage creates an urgent need for accessible, targeted training to help regional companies remain competitive.

The demand for these skills is intensified by the increased adoption of automated systems. Citing a U.S. Chamber of Commerce report, 58% of small businesses are now using generative AI. This adoption is often employee-driven, leading to the use of unapproved "Shadow AI" tools that can create data privacy risks and show the need for formal training.

To establish a long-term source of qualified talent, Newman is introducing new undergraduate degrees. Bachelor's programs in data science and applied intelligence began in Fall 2025. These degrees are structured to produce tech-proficient professionals ready for regional employment.

For more immediate business needs, the university provides professional development bootcamps. Available options include a six-week Power BI bootcamp and an "AI for Professional Productivity" course. Both offer practical, short-term training for managers and teams needing to acquire new skills quickly.

David Cochran, Dean of the School of Business & Technology, stated that the university's programs are created to meet marketplace needs. This approach strengthens the regional talent pipeline and helps retain skilled professionals in the Kansas economy. The goal is to prepare graduates for evolving industry demands.

Curriculum relevance is maintained through collaborations with key regional employers such as Koch Engineered Solutions, Textron Aviation, Invista, and Emprise Bank. These industry relationships help align academic programs with real-world business requirements, directly informing course content and student projects.

The university-industry connection is shown by new faculty member Fernando Rubio Garcia. In addition to teaching, Garcia is a recent practicing data scientist at Emprise Bank, where he developed in-house AI and automation tools. His dual role connects academic theory with current industry challenges, giving students direct insight.

Newman University provides educational experiences that serve the region's workforce development needs. The university's mission is to support the Wichita and Kansas economy by preparing students for in-demand careers. This focus helps retain local talent to build the community.

To learn more about Newman University and its programs, please visit https://newmanu.edu/.

Contact Info:
Name: Clark Schafer
Email: Send Email
Organization: Newman University
Address: 3100 McCormick , Wichita, Kansas 67213, United States
Website: https://newmanu.edu/

Source: PressCable

Release ID: 89171494

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