As part of Ohio’s growing Artificial Intelligence (AI) PC ecosystem, Hocking College (Hocking) has launched a state-of-the-art AI Lab in partnership with AI Owl and NWN, providing students and community members with hands-on access to cutting-edge AI technologies.
“We’ve all spent a lot of time talking about AI,” said Trace Johnson, Co-Founder and President of AI Owl. “This lab allows people to put AI into action.”
The lab is designed to be accessible not just for students in cybersecurity or digital programs but for those in any major. From hospitality to health care, the lab encourages learners to experiment with AI tools that can improve efficiency, spark creativity and solve real problems. Its most distinctive feature is that users don’t need to be coders to engage with the technology. Even those with no technical background can explore machine interactions using plain language.
“This lab gives people the tools they need to turn learning into real-world skills,” Johnson added.
The partnership began as an idea between Hocking President Dr. Betty Young and Hocking Director of Grant Development and Management Sam Taylor in early January. The college was chosen as a pilot location because its leadership shared a forward-thinking vision for how AI can be used to support both education and workforce development.
“This lab is not just about computers and software. It’s about helping our students and our community explore what's possible and take ownership of their future,” said Dr. Young. “We want Hocking College to be a place where innovation meets opportunity, and this partnership makes that possible.”
The lab will also house the new Hocking AI Academy, where students will engage with Intel’s AI for Workforce curriculum to develop practical solutions such as creating the college’s app and developing bots to support various departments. Plans are underway to host community workshops and small business training, helping local residents and entrepreneurs explore how AI can streamline everyday operations.
“NWN is thrilled to partner with Hocking, Intel, and AI Owl to launch this first cutting-edge AI lab in Ohio,” said CMO of NWN, Andrew Gilman.
“This is a perfect example of how collaboration can help drive technological progress and economic development in the region. By providing students and community members with advanced AI tools and offerings, we're not just preparing them for the future—we're creating new opportunities right now.”
AI Owl and Hocking are also exploring credit-bearing courses that align with employer needs and can prepare students for the evolving job market.
“AI is everywhere, whether you're managing a network or running a bakery,” said Johnson. “Understanding how to use these tools responsibly and effectively is the kind of learning that will benefit everyone.”