In this episode of EDU Unlocked, Ashish Fernando sits down with Dr. Galin Jones, Inaugural Vice Provost for Artificial Intelligence at the University of Minnesota, to discuss AI literacy, workforce transformation, and the role higher education must play in preparing society for an AI-driven future.

Galin begins by sharing his unconventional journey into academia. After serving in the military and running his own business, he returned to college later in life, where an inspiring professor helped him discover a passion for mathematics, statistics, and computing. What started as a practical decision to study statistics eventually led him to become one of higher education's leading voices on artificial intelligence.

The conversation explores why universities have a responsibility that extends far beyond educating enrolled students. Galin explains the vision behind the University of Minnesota's AI Hub, an initiative designed to prepare not only students, but also educators, businesses, policymakers, and communities to navigate the opportunities and challenges AI will bring. From K-12 education to workforce upskilling and public engagement, the goal is to build AI resilience across an entire state.

Ashish and Galin also discuss AI literacy and why it is becoming an essential skill for every profession. While not everyone needs to become an AI engineer, Galin believes every graduate will need to understand how to effectively work alongside AI. He also shares why universities are uniquely positioned to lead conversations around ethics, governance, privacy, and responsible AI adoption.

Throughout the discussion, Galin emphasizes that successful AI adoption is not simply a technology challenge. It is equally a leadership and collaboration challenge that requires universities, industry, government, and communities to work together rather than in isolation.

The episode concludes with Galin's perspective on resilience in the age of AI. Rather than simply adapting to technological change, he believes individuals and institutions must develop the ability to evaluate, shape, and responsibly guide how AI impacts society.