FSU InSPIRE expands summer STEM training with robotics and AI for educators

FSU InSPIRE expands free professional development opportunities for K-12 teachers. [Photo by Igor Omilaev]

As artificial intelligence, robotics and advanced technology continue to reshape industries across the country, Florida State University’s Institute for Strategic Partnerships, Innovation, Research, and Education (InSPIRE) is helping Northwest Florida educators prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow.

This summer, FSU InSPIRE is expanding its lineup of free professional development opportunities for K-12 teachers, adding two week-long robotics trainings and continuing a series of hands-on artificial intelligence workshops designed to bring emerging technologies into classrooms throughout the region.

Now entering its third summer of offering free professional learning programs, InSPIRE has grown its reach across Northwest Florida by partnering with local school districts and state colleges to provide educators with practical tools, industry-relevant skills and classroom-ready resources. The Summer 2026 schedule now includes nine professional development workshops spanning robotics, artificial intelligence, engineering design and computer science.

Robotics Training Returns by Popular Demand

Robotics returns to FSU InSPIRE this summer. [Photo by Alex Knight.]

One of the most anticipated offerings is ROBO 101: Introduction to Robotics in the Classroom, which returns after a successful debut last year.

The free course will be offered July 6-12 in Bay County and July 13-17 in Okaloosa County. Designed for K-12 educators, the training explores how robotics, artificial intelligence and engineering design can be integrated into everyday instruction across multiple subject areas.

Participants will work alongside Florida State University faculty and industry professionals while learning fundamental robotics and pre-engineering concepts, computational thinking, block-based coding and strategies for developing durable skills that help prepare students for future careers.

“We couldn’t be happier to announce ROBO 101 is back by popular demand,” said Carrie Meyers, InSPIRE’s director of education and workforce talent. “It is exciting to be able to bring this course to educators in Gulf, Walton, Bay, Santa Rosa and Okaloosa counties and explore how integrating these advancements can transform the educational practice of K-12 teachers along Northwest Florida’s Gulf Coast.”

The course reflects a growing emphasis on workforce readiness as industries such as aerospace, advanced manufacturing, robotics, energy and technology continue to expand throughout the region.

New STEM Leaders Join InSPIRE

Supporting the program’s growth are two experienced educators who recently joined FSU InSPIRE’s workforce and talent team.

Brigitte Gudz, who successfully facilitated the Summer 2025 ROBO 101 course, officially joins the organization as an InSPIRE STEM Specialist. With more than 35 years of experience in mathematics, STEM education, career and technical education, curriculum development and robotics instruction, Gudz brings extensive classroom expertise and deep ties to Northwest Florida.

Her background includes preparing students for careers in high-demand technical fields while helping educators connect classroom learning to real-world workforce opportunities.

Also joining the team is Julie Perry, Ed.D., whose experience spans computer science, robotics, STEM curriculum development, teacher professional learning and statewide standards development.

Perry recently completed her doctorate in Educational Policy and Leadership at Florida State University, focusing her research on educator perceptions of computer science instruction in elementary schools. Her teaching career has included work with exceptional student education programs, STEAM education, coding, physical science, robotics and Advanced Placement computer science courses.

“Both Brigitte and Julie’s exceptional credentials are vital to us achieving our long-term vision: expanding access to high-quality STEM learning, strengthening computer science pathways, supporting teachers with practical and research-informed resources, and preparing students for the future of work,” said James Reynolds, InSPIRE’s director of STEM outreach. “Both of these educational leaders have 3D printing, robotics and coding backgrounds, making them ideal to lead and help in all the courses we will be creating in the future.”

ROBO 101: Introduction to Robotics in the Classroom returns to FSU InSPIRE. [Photo by Zhey Luo]

Artificial Intelligence Takes Center Stage

In addition to robotics, InSPIRE is offering two intensive artificial intelligence workshops for educators in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

Held June 22-26 at Pensacola State College, AI101: Engaging K-12 Students Using AI-Powered Instruction introduces teachers to the foundations of artificial intelligence, prompt engineering and AI-assisted curriculum design.

The course provides educators with opportunities to collaborate with university faculty and industry experts while learning how to create standards-aligned lessons using AI tools. Participants also explore critical thinking, workforce readiness and strategies for integrating emerging technologies into classroom instruction.

Educators who successfully complete the course can earn Microsoft PowerPoint and AI Foundations certifications, along with a $700 stipend.

Building upon those skills, AI102: Leveraging AI Prompt Engineering for Engineering Design Pedagogy focuses on advanced applications of artificial intelligence in instructional design.

Participants learn how to create open-ended engineering lessons, use model-eliciting activities, apply responsible AI practices and strengthen STEM instruction through research-based teaching methods. The course also includes training in Microsoft Word and offers opportunities to earn industry-recognized credentials.

Teachers completing AI102 can earn a Microsoft Office Word certification, a 35-hour Florida State University and Microsoft certificate in AI Prompt Engineering and a $700 stipend.

FSU InSPIRE to expand summer STEM training. [Photo by Simon Kadula]

Preparing Teachers—and Students—for the Future

As artificial intelligence and automation increasingly influence nearly every industry, educational leaders say providing teachers with exposure to emerging technologies is essential for preparing students for future careers.

Rather than focusing solely on technical skills, InSPIRE’s programs emphasize durable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity and collaboration—competencies that remain valuable regardless of how technology evolves.

By connecting educators with university researchers, industry professionals and hands-on learning experiences, FSU InSPIRE aims to ensure students throughout Northwest Florida have access to innovative, workforce-connected learning opportunities that position them for success in a rapidly changing economy.

For a complete schedule of FSU InSPIRE’s Summer 2026 professional learning opportunities, educators can visit the program’s website for registration information and course details.