AI READY: A Practical Introduction for Professionals

Course Description

AI is moving fast, and often it can feel like you’re already behind. AI Ready is a two-part series designed to change that. This is a beginner-friendly introduction to generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini and Copilot. No tech background required.

Grounded in a human-centered approach, this series puts your judgment, your work, and your values at the center of how AI gets used. You’ll leave with a new understanding of what AI can and can’t do, practical skills you can use right away and a clear sense of where AI fits into your day-to-day work.

Session 1:
Learn what generative AI is, how it works in plain language, and why it matters right now. Through live demos and practical examples, you’ll learn how to get more useful, reliable results from tools like Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot. This session includes an introduction to prompting as a concept, basic guardrails and a framework for responsible use.

Session 2:
Now that you’ve seen what AI can do, how do you incorporate it into your role? Breakout time gives you space to practice, reflect, and brainstorm. This session also covers change management, including why resistance is normal and how to start small without getting overwhelmed. Finally, we’ll explore what’s possible beyond the basics, so you leave with a clear sense of where to go next.

Format: Two 90-minute virtual session

Upcoming Courses

Location: VIRTUAL
Dates: June 10 – 11, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tuition: $129
Instructor: Mary Gallivan

Register Now

Location: VIRTUAL
Dates: September 23 – 24, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tuition: $129
Instructor: Mary Gallivan

Register Now

Location: VIRTUAL
Dates: December 9 – 10, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Tuition: $129
Instructor: Mary Gallivan

Register Now

Registration and Funding

You may qualify to take the AI READY Course at no cost. Learn more about funding options and register for the next AI READY course today. 

Instructor Biography

Mary Gallivan, MBA, is the founder of Joyline Consulting and an AI educator and workshop facilitator with over 25 years of experience in organizational strategy and leadership. She works with professionals and mission-driven organizations to make AI accessible, practical, and relevant to everyday work.

Mary has held leadership roles at several nonprofit organizations, including the Jimmie Johnson Foundation, Foundation For The Carolinas and CNM Ingenuity, and brings a grounded, human-centered approach to AI education.

Headshot of Mary Gallivan

Scheduled Maintenance

CNM Ingenuity will be performing scheduled maintenance on Saturday, January 20 from 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. Students will not be able to submit or modify any forms during this time. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please contact us with any questions.

CNM Ingenuity is closed for the holidays beginning Monday, December 22, 2025 and will reopen Monday, January 5, 2026. We hope you have a wonderful holiday season and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year!