Skip To Main Content

header-container

horizontal-nav

BREADCRUMB

stock photo image of a man on a laptop with AI tech on the screen

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Program for High School Students

Learn AI, Machine Learning, and Data Science at West-MEC Southeast Campus

Located at the West-MEC Southeast Campus in Phoenix, AZ, the two-year Artificial Intelligence AI program is a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course designed to immerse high school students in the concepts, tools, and real-world applications of modern Large Language Models (LLMs) and AI. Students will gain critical, hands-on skills in programming, machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and data science while also exploring the ethical and societal impacts of these emerging technologies. This program emphasizes hands-on projects, teamwork, and problem-solving, allowing students to design AI solutions for real-world challenges. By the end of the program, students will be able to demonstrate their technical skills and be prepared for success in both college and future technology careers.

High-Demand Career Pathways in Artificial Intelligence and Tech

Students who successfully complete the West-MEC Artificial Intelligence program will be exceptionally well-prepared to pursue higher education and advanced training in a variety of technology fields. Graduates gain the foundational expertise for a wide range of exciting and high-paying roles, including:

  • Artificial Intelligence Engineer
  • Data Scientist
  • Machine Learning Specialist
  • Software Developer
  • Robotics Technician or Engineer
  • Natural Language Processing (NLP) Specialist
  • Computer Vision Engineer
  • AI Ethics and Policy Analyst

In addition to technical roles, the program prepares students for careers that address the ethical and societal impacts of AI, such as roles in AI ethics and policy, research science, or entrepreneurship, leading innovation in emerging technology industries.

Earn Industry-Recognized Artificial Intelligence and Tech Certifications

One of the primary goals of the West-MEC Artificial Intelligence program is to prepare students to demonstrate industry-ready competence. Eligible high school students will have the opportunity to test for multiple valuable credentials to enhance their resumes and college applications. These certifications validate core skills in AI, data science, and programming:

  • Microsoft Azure AI Fundamentals (AI-900) - Validates foundational knowledge of artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts and related Microsoft Azure services.
  • Google AI Essentials Specialization - Demonstrates understanding of how to use generative AI tools to enhance productivity and workflows.
  • Google Data Analytics (Approved by ADE) - Certifies skills in data cleaning, analysis, and visualization, a core component of modern AI.
  • Information Technology Specialist (ITS) - Artificial Intelligence - Confirms a high-level, broad understanding of AI principles and applications.
  • Information Technology Specialist (ITS) - Python - Verifies proficiency in the Python programming language, the essential language for machine learning and data science.

Current Sophomores or Juniors are welcome to apply to the AI Class program. Please use the links on the right side of the page to view the 2026-2027 information sheet, as well as to find campus directions, read the curriculum, or contact us for enrollment details.

Don't Wait! Secure Your Spot in the Artificial Intelligence Program Today

Take the next step toward hands-on skills and a future-ready career at West-MEC.

 Apply Now