Mississippi AI training is helping residents move from simply using artificial intelligence to understanding how it works. MAIN Director Dr. Kollin Napier explained that shift during a July 29 appearance on WLOX’s The 4 O’Clock Show.
In the interview, Napier discussed AI literacy, no-cost learning opportunities and the connection between workforce readiness and Mississippi’s economic development goals. He also reminded viewers that many people already use AI through navigation apps, social media feeds, online shopping and media recommendations.
Watch the WLOX interview
View the original segment and coverage on WLOX.
Read WLOX’s companion article: WLOX also published a written report, “Free AI training available to Mississippians through statewide initiative”, on July 31, 2026. The article highlights MAIN’s no-cost statewide courses, self-paced access, educator CEUs, hands-on workshops and connection to Mississippi’s workforce development goals.
Mississippi AI training is open statewide
MAIN offers no-cost, online and self-paced AI training for Mississippians. Learners can participate from the Gulf Coast, the Jackson metro area or anywhere else in the state. Current courses are available through the MAIN course catalog, and additional offerings are released throughout the year.
The training supports people at different stages of their careers. K-12 educators can earn continuing education units through eligible programs. Other learners can build practical skills and earn certifications.
MAIN also holds in-person workshops during the year. These sessions give participants hands-on practice that complements the online courses. As a result, learners can connect AI concepts to real tasks in their jobs, classrooms and communities.
AI literacy starts with everyday tools
AI can feel unfamiliar because people often associate it only with chatbots or emerging technology. However, many everyday digital services already use AI. Navigation apps select routes, social platforms organize feeds, online stores recommend products and streaming services suggest what to watch next.
Recognizing those familiar examples is an important first step. It helps people separate useful information from misinformation and ask better questions about how AI systems affect their decisions.
“It starts with literacy. How do we educate people to help battle some misinformation about what it is and what it’s doing?” Napier said during the interview.
Education does not remove every concern. Instead, it gives people a clearer way to evaluate benefits, limitations and risks. With that foundation, Mississippians can make informed choices about when and how to use AI.
AI skills support Mississippi workforce readiness
Mississippi’s economic development plans depend on a workforce that can adapt as technology changes. Napier described AI as a capability layer that now reaches across occupations and sectors. Therefore, AI readiness is relevant to educators, public employees, business owners, skilled workers, students and many others.
MAIN works with state partners, including Accelerate Mississippi, to connect AI education with broader workforce development efforts. The goal is to serve people working today while also preparing students who have not yet entered the workforce.
This statewide approach reflects a practical reality: organizations need people who can use new tools thoughtfully, not simply access them. Training helps workers understand where AI can improve a process, where human judgment remains essential and how to apply safeguards.
That focus also supports the work of the Mississippi AI Workforce Readiness Council, which brings leaders together around the skills employers and workers need as AI adoption grows.
What learners can expect
- No-cost access: MAIN courses are available without a tuition charge.
- Statewide participation: Mississippians can learn online from any region.
- Flexible scheduling: Self-paced lessons can fit around work and family commitments.
- Professional value: Eligible K-12 educators can earn CEUs, while other learners can earn certifications.
- Hands-on options: In-person workshops provide opportunities to practice with AI tools.
- Growing course catalog: MAIN adds new learning opportunities throughout the year.
How to enroll in Mississippi AI training
Visit the MAIN courses page to browse current offerings and select a program. Each course listing provides the information needed to get started.
Whether you want to understand AI basics, strengthen workplace skills or prepare for future changes, the next step is straightforward.
Explore MAIN’s no-cost AI courses
Frequently asked questions
Who can take MAIN’s AI courses?
MAIN’s no-cost courses are open to Mississippians across occupations, sectors and experience levels.
Are MAIN courses online or in person?
The core courses are online and self-paced. MAIN also offers in-person workshops and events during the year for hands-on training.
How much does Mississippi AI training cost?
MAIN provides its statewide AI training at no cost to learners.
Can teachers earn continuing education units?
Yes. K-12 educators can earn CEUs through eligible MAIN learning opportunities. Course details identify the available credit.
Why does AI literacy matter for Mississippi’s workforce?
AI is becoming part of work across many occupations and sectors. Literacy helps workers use these tools responsibly, evaluate their limitations and apply human judgment.
Sources: WLOX, “Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network works to keep state ahead in growing and changing field,” published July 29, 2026; and “Free AI training available to Mississippians through statewide initiative,” published July 31, 2026. Statements about MAIN programs and access reflect WLOX’s coverage and MAIN’s program information.