07/15/2026
Yesterday, I heard something that has been on my mind ever since.
At Omaha STEM Ecosystem’s Connecting Pathways event, one of the discussions highlighted how differently AI is being approached in education. I was especially excited to hear that University of Nebraska at Omaha is introducing a Generative AI minor, which feels like a meaningful step toward preparing students for what’s ahead.
For so long, education has focused on preparing students for the workforce. But AI is changing the workplace faster than most curricula can evolve. At the same time, educators are trying to preserve the critical thinking skills that matter just as much.
Another idea that really stuck with me was that workplaces will play a major role in shaping AI education. As organizations adopt new technologies and redefine the skills they expect, education will inevitably have to adapt alongside them. That relationship has always existed, but AI is making that connection more visible than ever.
I don’t think the challenge is choosing between AI and critical thinking. I think it’s figuring out how to build both.
I’m curious to see how education and the workplace continue to shape each other over the next few years.