AI Leadership for the Public Sector

• Government executives and agency leaders responsible for AI strategy, digital transformation, technology, innovation, or organizational leadership
• Program and operational leaders managing AI initiatives, modernization efforts, or public service delivery
• Data, privacy, cybersecurity, risk, and compliance professionals responsible for data governance, ethical AI, security, ethics, or regulatory compliance
• Public policy professionals, legislators, and legislative staff shaping AI policy, regulation, oversight, or public accountability
• Procurement, acquisition, and contracting professionals responsible for evaluating, purchasing, or managing AI technologies and vendor relationships
• Consultants, GovTech providers, nonprofits, and other organizations serving the public sector that advise, implement, or support responsible AI adoption

• AI Leadership for the Public Sector Certificate from Cornell’s Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy
• C60 Professional Development Hours (6.0 CEUs)

Artificial intelligence is transforming how governments, policy organizations, and their partners deliver services, shape regulations, and build public trust. With evolving federal AI guidance and global frameworks like the EU AI Act, leaders must navigate complex ethical, policy, and technological challenges while harnessing AI's potential for public good.

This certificate provides a roadmap for responsible AI leadership across the complete AI life cycle, from foundational solution selection through post-deployment oversight. Whether you work within a government agency, legislative office, consulting firm, or nonprofit, or as a vendor serving public institutions, you will develop practical governance frameworks and leadership capabilities essential for today's algorithmic era.

Beginning with AI fundamentals and solution evaluation, you will progress through data readiness assessment, ethical leadership frameworks, regulatory considerations, strategic implementation, and continuous accountability systems. You'll examine structured approaches including the NIST AI Risk Management Framework, apply federal procurement guidance, and develop measurement systems that capture public value beyond operational efficiency.

Throughout the program, you will work with a variety of AI solutions, building a governance toolkit through hands-on projects that address your organizational context. Professor Tasha Austin-Williams, who brings extensive experience working with government organizations, will guide you in developing both the technical understanding and strategic leadership skills needed to champion responsible AI innovation while maintaining public trust.

The courses in this certificate program are required to be completed in the order that they appear.

This program includes two years of access to the AI Symposium!

These highly interactive virtual events span multiple days and explore today’s most pressing topics. Symposium sessions offer exclusive opportunities to engage in real-time discussions with your eCornell community, applying insights from your courses to real-world scenarios. Through reflections and small-group discussions, you’ll deepen your learning, broaden your perspective, and expand your professional network.

Symposium events are held throughout the year, providing ongoing opportunities to stay engaged, gain fresh perspectives, and strengthen your skills. Once enrolled, you’ll receive access to the Symposium networking site and details about upcoming sessions. You can participate in as many as you’d like to make the most of your experience, though attendance is not required to complete your program.