Google and California Community Colleges launch largest higher education AI partnership in the US, equipping millions of students with access to free training

Google has announced a new partnership with California Community Colleges, providing more than 2 million students and staff with access to free AI training, Google Career Certificates, and Google’s AI tools.

In the largest higher education deal of its kind in the US, Google is investing in workforce development for the future, putting California's community college students at the forefront of the AI-driven economy.

“This collaboration with Google is a monumental step forward for the California Community Colleges,” explains Don Daves-Rougeaux, Senior Advisor to the Chancellor of the California Community Colleges on Workforce Development, Strategic Partnerships, and GenAI. 

“Providing our students with access to world-class AI training and professional certificates ensures they have the skills necessary to thrive in high-growth industries and contribute to California's economic prosperity. This partnership directly supports our Vision 2030 commitment to student success and workforce readiness. Additionally, offering access to AI tools with data protections and advanced functionality for free ensures that all learners have equitable access to the tools they need to leverage the skills they’re learning, and saves California’s community colleges millions of dollars in potential tool costs.”

All students, faculty, staff and classified professionals at the colleges will be able to access Gemini, Google’s generative AI tool, with data protections, to ensure they can safely use AI tools.

All students and faculty will also receive free access to Google Career Certificates, Google AI Essentials, and Prompting Essentials, providing practical training for in-demand jobs.

"Technology skills, especially in areas like artificial intelligence, are critical for the future workforce," adds Bryan Lee, Vice President of Google for Education Go-to-Market. "We are thrilled to partner with the California Community Colleges, the nation's largest higher education system, to bring valuable training and tools like Google Career Certificates, AI Essentials, and Gemini to millions of students. This collaboration underscores our commitment to creating economic opportunity for everyone."

The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026

The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.

Now open for entries, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the companies, platforms, and individuals driving transformation in the sector, from AI-driven assessment tools and personalized learning systems, to upskilling solutions and digital platforms that connect learners with real-world outcomes.

Submissions are open to organizations across the UK, the Americas, and internationally. Entries should highlight measurable impact, whether in K–12 classrooms, higher education institutions, or lifelong learning settings.

Winners will be announced on 14 January 2026 as part of an online showcase featuring expert commentary on emerging trends and standout innovation. All winners and finalists will also be featured in our first print magazine, to be distributed at BETT 2026.