SUNY Orange to lead US community colleges in AI healthcare training with $250K state backing
SUNY Orange has been awarded $250,000 by the State of New York to establish what is being described as the first of its kind AI and Healthcare Workforce Center in the state. The initiative aims to equip healthcare workers with essential skills to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into their professional roles.The funding, announced at SUNY Orange’s Middletown campus, was secured with the support of State Senator James Skoufis (D, Cornwall), who highlighted the significant role community colleges are expected to play in preparing the healthcare workforce for an AI-integrated future.AI expected to shape healthcare education and workforceAs reported by the Mid Hudson News, Senator Skoufis emphasised that community colleges, including SUNY Orange, are central to this transformation. “There are so many healthcare professions and jobs that run through the community college level that are going to be interfacing with AI in one way shape or form,” he said. He added that healthcare professionals must acquire the necessary skills to effectively use AI in their fields.SUNY Orange plans to develop a curriculum that enables healthcare workers, especially those on the frontlines and in mid-level positions, to responsibly engage with AI technologies. The centre will focus on training workers to understand, question, and utilise AI in real-time clinical settings.Development of curriculum and strategic partnershipsAccording to SUNY Orange President Dr Kristine Young, the college has been discussing the need for such a programme for a significant period. As quoted by the Mid Hudson News, she stated, “We want them to understand the technology that they’re using.” She added that it is crucial for healthcare workers to be able to question AI outputs, work collaboratively with supervisors, and apply insights in a patient-care setting.The centre is expected to produce its first deliverables by early 2026. SUNY Orange intends to partner with local healthcare providers in the implementation phase to ensure that the training targets real workforce needs.A model for other institutionsThe initiative positions SUNY Orange as a leader among US community colleges in developing a specialised AI healthcare education model. The funding is part of a broader strategy by the State of New York to enhance workforce readiness for technological integration in healthcare, starting with the community college system.TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here.
