TIES is seeking educators to join a special cohort of forward-thinking teachers to pilot IBM SkillsBuild courses, share observations and offer courses to students they serve.

SkillsBuild is a free set of dozens of online courses that allow students to gain valuable skills, earn verified digital credentials, connect with mentors and explore fields and careers ranging from Artificial Intelligence to Cybersecurity. 

Benefits for joining the cohort:

• Helping to shape an industry-leading education solution.

• Opportunity to collaborate with other innovative educators.

• Recognition, including a certificate, from IBM for participation in the program.

• A unique opportunity for deep learning that can be shared with students.

• Building relationships with industry professionals.

• A stipend of $500 for full participation. 

• Documentation of professional learning hours in various categories (40 to 60 hours) that could be submitted to your educational institution.

Selection Criteria

• A U.S.-based educator who serves students in grades 9 through 12 who will be teaching students during the 2023-2024 school year.

• Must be interested in bringing SkillsBuild to students.

• Preference will be given to educators employed in districts that work with underserved populations. (Public, private, charter, remote and magnet educators are welcome.)

• Must be available to attend required trainings and focus group sessions. 

Participation Expectations

Attend the following remote meetings:

• Inspirational Kick-off meeting

• Training session

• Mid-point meeting

• Focus Groups -

• Complete all required digital surveys

• Provide verbal and written feedback about observations, opinions and experiences using the product during the review periods and at the meeting sessions listed above

• Consider offering a testimonial. 

• Consider becoming a trainer for others. 

• You will need a laptop connected to the Internet