Students at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College are gaining hands-on experience using artificial intelligence to solve real-world problems through a project-based Information Systems Technology course at the Harrison County Campus.

The first cohort of IST 2911, Supervised Work Experience in IST, began in spring 2026 under the leadership of AI Strategist Wayne Francis, with instructional support from MGCCC Information Technology instructor Vic Gauthreaux. The course challenges students to move beyond basic AI prompting and explore how artificial intelligence can be used responsibly, effectively and efficiently in professional environments.

Students in the inaugural cohort were Elizabeth Hachiya, Reece Blackburn, Robert Furuglyas, Anis Halai, Allen Pulliam, Christina Schmidt and Tommie Walker.

Throughout the course, students gained experience with data preparation, AI model selection, smart document processing, semantic search, conversational interfaces and connected AI workflows. They also learned to define real-world problems, identify stakeholder needs, protect sensitive information, evaluate AI-generated results and document the technical decisions behind their work.

“Artificial intelligence is changing the way organizations approach their everyday work, and our students need more than an understanding of how to use an AI tool,” Gauthreaux said. “They need to understand how to evaluate a problem, determine where AI can provide real value and build solutions that are responsible, secure and practical. This course gives them the opportunity to develop those skills through hands-on projects that reflect the kinds of challenges they will encounter in the workplace.”

Students are also developing professional project portfolios that demonstrate the purpose, methods and potential value of their work while addressing limitations and resource requirements. The portfolios provide students with a way to communicate not only what they created, but also why particular approaches and technologies were selected.

Through partnerships with local and state agencies, students are preparing to put those skills to work in authentic professional environments. Projects are designed to address organizational and community needs while giving students experience developing AI solutions that can become part of established workplace processes.

The project-based course continued in fall 2026 with a new cohort building on the foundation established during the spring semester. Students have additional opportunities to take concepts and early prototypes through further development and explore how AI solutions can be implemented responsibly and sustainably for government agencies, local businesses and other organizations.

By integrating artificial intelligence into established workflows, MGCCC students are exploring ways organizations can improve efficiency while maintaining responsible practices related to data, security and the evaluation of AI-generated results.

The course also reflects the growing need for technology professionals who can do more than simply operate AI tools. Students learn to consider the larger environment in which an AI solution will function, including the people it will serve, the information it will use and the resources required to implement and maintain it.

Through experiences such as IST 2911, MGCCC is preparing students to enter a rapidly changing technology workforce with practical experience applying emerging technologies to workplace and community needs.