AI Extension Specialist

University of Wisconsin Madison•Madison, WI

13d•$95,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Professor of Practice in Artificial Intelligence is a vital role bridging cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) research at UW-Madison with practical applications for Wisconsin communities and beyond. This high-impact position will work closely with campus-based faculty in Artificial Intelligence, and alongside the Division of Extension’s statewide network of educators and specialists, taking complex AI concepts from university faculty and staff and transforming them into accessible and actionable insights for local governments, small businesses, community organizations, and youth educators. The successful candidate for this non-credit Professor of Practice in Artificial Intelligence position will help expand and sustain training and support for local governments, especially in rural communities, to understand the opportunities, risks, and operational aspects of AI and AI-enabled systems. The successful candidate for this position will translate AI research and technology produced by UW-Madison through the RISE-AI initiative into practice with a nationally scalable, community-focused program for AI training and professional development.

Requirements

Demonstrated understanding of core AI concepts, methodologies (e.g., machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision), and their practical applications.
Proven ability to translate complex technical information into clear, concise, and actionable insights for diverse non-technical audiences.
Excellent written and oral communication skills, with experience developing educational materials, reports, and presentations.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, community partners, and funding agencies.
Demonstrated experience in, or capacity for, securing external funding through grants or other mechanisms.
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
Willingness to travel periodically for meetings, trainings, and outreach activities.
Have a valid drivers license and a reliable source of independent transportation for periodic in-state work travel, and/or comply with requirements for UW-Madison vehicle use authorization.
Master's degree in a relevant field such as Computer Science, Data Science, Information Science, Education, Public Administration, or a closely related discipline with a strong emphasis on Artificial Intelligence or a related technological field.

Nice To Haves

Experience in Extension, outreach, or informal education programs.
Familiarity with the operations and needs of local governments, small businesses, or youth education programs.
Experience in curriculum development and delivering adult education or professional development programs.
Record of successful grant writing and grant management.
Ph.D. in a relevant field.

Responsibilities

AI Research Translation & Application (40%): Proactively engage with UW-Madison faculty and staff, including those conducting established AI research and newly hired RISE faculty, to understand the scope, methodologies, and potential practical applications of their AI research. Identify and translate relevant AI research findings into tangible applications and best practices for diverse stakeholders, including local governments (e.g., optimizing public services, data analysis), small businesses (e.g., enhanced customer service, operational efficiency), community organizations (e.g., resource allocation, citizen engagement), and youth educators (e.g., age-appropriate AI concepts, ethical considerations). Develop and disseminate accessible resources (e.g., briefs, case studies, workshops) that demonstrate the practical value of AI for non-technical audiences.
Extension Liaison & Education (30%): Serve as the primary liaison and subject matter expert on AI for educators and outreach specialists within the UW-Madison Division of Extension who work with youth and adults. Provide ongoing training, consultation, and support to Extension educators to enhance their understanding of AI concepts, trends, and practical applications. Collaborate with Extension colleagues to integrate AI literacy and application into existing Extension programs and develop new initiatives as needed.
Program Development & National Support (15%): Support the development of comprehensive and practical AI training materials, curricula, and pedagogical approaches for Extension educators across the United States, in collaboration with national Extension networks and partners. Contribute to the creation of innovative educational resources that address the evolving landscape of AI and its societal implications.
Funding Acquisition (10%): Actively identify and pursue funding opportunities from foundations, federal agencies, and other grant-making organizations to support the position's salary, programmatic activities, and additional capacity for AI education and application within Extension and UW Madison more broadly. Develop compelling grant proposals, manage grant budgets, and ensure compliance with funding requirements.
Professional Development & Service (5%): Maintain current knowledge of advancements in AI, machine learning, and their societal impacts through continuous learning, professional development activities, and participation in relevant conferences and networks. Represent UW-Madison Extension at campus, state, regional, and national meetings and events related to AI and technology. Participate in departmental, collegiate, and university committees as appropriate.
Provides classroom, online, and/or laboratory instruction including grading
Assists in defining the objectives of the program and play a major role in carrying out program duties
Supervises the day to day activities of work unit employees involved in instructional support as needed
Assesses learner performance and prepares reports recommending instructional improvements
Assists in developing techniques and/or model programs for carrying out instructional goals in disciplinary area and may help identify ways in which new techniques could be of assistance
Develops teaching techniques that enhance course effectiveness in alignment with desired outcomes and established strategy