PITTSBURGH—The Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh (ULGP) proudly launched the 2026 Empowered AI, an innovative workforce development initiative designed to prepare the next generation of technology leaders through immersive artificial intelligence training, industry-recognized certification, and national leadership opportunities.
Made possible through the generous support of the PPG Foundation, hosted at Carlow University, and facilitated by Code Differently, Empowered AI provided high school-aged students with a three-week intensive learning experience focused on artificial intelligence, machine learning, prompt engineering, responsible AI, and emerging technologies.
Participants received hands-on instruction from technology professionals, collaborated on real-world projects, and earned an AI certification that strengthens their college and career readiness. Upon completing the program, students will travel to Nashville, Tennessee, to participate in the National Urban League Youth Summit, where they will engage with youth leaders from across the nation, attend leadership and career development sessions, and explore opportunities in STEM, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
“Artificial intelligence is transforming every sector of our economy, and it is imperative that our young people are prepared not only to participate in this new era but to lead it,” said Jennifer Thompkins, President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh. “Empowered AI is more than a technology program—it is an investment in the future of our youth. By combining technical education, leadership development, and national exposure, we are ensuring that students from our community have access to opportunities that will position them for long-term success in the innovation economy.”
The initiative reflects the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh’s commitment to advancing economic mobility by connecting young people with the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to thrive in high-growth industries.
“For 75 years, the PPG Foundation has made community investments that reflect the changing needs of our communities. Preparing students for the future starts with expanding access to emerging technologies today,” said Malesia Dunn, executive director, PPG Foundation and corporate global social responsibility. “With the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh’s Empowered AI program, we’re proud to join forces to support the next generation of leaders and the skills they’ll need to succeed in a rapidly evolving workforce.”
Hosted on the campus of Carlow University, the program provided students with access to a collegiate learning environment while exposing them to future educational pathways and career possibilities.
“At Carlow, we are devoted to our students’ future, and that future is inseparable from artificial intelligence.” said Sara Oliver VP for Mission Integration at Carlow University. Hosting Empowered AI reflects our commitment to equipping the next generation with both the technical skills and the ethical grounding to lead in this new and evolving world of technology.”
The curriculum was delivered by Code Differently, a nationally recognized technology education organization dedicated to increasing access to careers in software development and emerging technologies.
“At Code Differently, we believe talent is everywhere, and opportunity should be too,” said Stephanie Eldridge Chief Executive Officer of Code Differently. “Through Empowered AI, students gained more than technical knowledge—they delivered the confidence, problem-solving skills, and innovative mindset necessary to succeed in one of the fastest-growing sectors of our economy. We are excited to partner with the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh to help shape the next generation of AI leaders.” Empowered AI exemplified what is possible when philanthropy, higher education, community organizations, and industry leaders unite around a shared vision of expanding opportunity. By removing barriers to cutting-edge technology education and creating pathways to leadership, the program empowers young people to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and changemakers in an increasingly digital world.
