Fair Chance Futures · Free AI career training
AI Lab
Build your career for the AI economy. A free, four-month evening program from Fair Chance Futures at Columbia University.
Apply by December 15
The program
What is AI Lab?
AI Lab is a free, four-month professional career program. Fellows build the durable skills employers can't find, problem solving, communication, collaboration, and self-direction, by solving real business problems with AI tools. Fellows move into AI-enabled roles in operations, business analysis, and process coordination.
Comparable programs cost $25,000 or more. AI Lab is free.
A credential employers recognize, earned on completion.
Coaching, mentorship, and an alumni network for life.
Monday to Thursday, 6:00–9:00 PM your local time, plus occasional weekend labs.
Hands-on with the tools employers use today.
Solve problems for businesses and build a portfolio of four projects.
Built like a real workplace
AI Lab runs like a rotational leadership development program, so you build real workplace experience before your first day on the job.
- Report to a manager who reviews your work, gives feedback, and holds you accountable.
- MBA students mentor you and coach you on presenting your work.
- Four project cycles of growing complexity.
- Present to leadership at the end of every cycle.
- Practice interviews with Frankie, our AI career coach, as often as you need.
Last cycle, Fellows solved real business problems from
Where our graduates work
Eligibility
Who can apply
AI Lab is a first chance and fair chance program for people ready to build professional careers.
Admission is selective. We look for curiosity, drive, and the discipline to sustain a full-time program.
- 18 or older
- Live in Greater New York City or Greater Los Angeles
- High school diploma or GED
- At least two years of work experience or college
- Comfortable using a computerNo laptop? We'll provide one if you're admitted.
- Able to commit about 40 hours per weekIncluding live classes on camera, Monday to Thursday, 6:00–9:00 PM your local time
Timeline
Key dates
- Now – Tuesday, 15 DecemberApplications open
Apply any time before the deadline. Your progress saves as you go.
- After you applyInterviews, by invitation
Selected applicants book a 20-minute interview with our admissions team.
- After reviewDecisions
Every applicant receives a decision in their portal.
- January 25 – February 5, 2027Onboarding
Two weeks to set up your tools, learn what to expect, and meet your instructors.
- Monday, February 8, 2027First day of class
14 weeks, including a one-week break between Cycles 3 and 4.
- Thursday, May 13, 2027Last day of class
Graduate with a Columbia University certificate. Career coaching continues after the program.
How to apply
Three steps
Your background, work history, and education, plus a short problem-solving task where you work with an AI assistant. Save and come back any time.
If you're selected, you'll book a Zoom conversation with our admissions team about your experience and goals.
Every applicant receives a decision here. If you're admitted, you'll accept your offer and complete a two-week onboarding before class begins.
Info sessions
Meet the team before you apply
Live on Zoom, about 45 minutes. See how the program works, hear from the team, and ask anything.
Upcoming sessions
- Thursday, October 226:00–6:45 PM PT
- Wednesday, November 412:00–12:45 PM ET
- Tuesday, November 176:00–6:45 PM ET
FAQ
Common questions
What does it cost? Is there a stipend?
AI Lab is free. Training, career coaching, and the Columbia University certificate cost you nothing. Comparable Ivy League programs cost $25,000 or more. We do not provide a stipend.
Will there be coding in this program?
You don't need any coding experience. Fellows work hands-on with AI tools to solve business problems, automate workflows, and analyze information.
What do I graduate with?
A certificate from Columbia University, a portfolio of four projects built from real employer problems, a career-ready résumé, cover letter, and LinkedIn profile, and a professional network of MBA students, business leaders, and Fair Chance Futures alumni.
What career support is there?
Career coaching and mentorship from day one, plus interview practice with Frankie, our AI career coach. After the program, you keep lifetime access to career coaching and our alumni network.
I don't have a laptop. Can I still apply?
Yes. If you're admitted and don't have a laptop, we'll provide one.
How much time does it take?
About 40 hours per week. Live classes run Monday to Thursday, 6:00–9:00 PM your local time on Zoom, plus occasional weekend labs. The rest of the time goes to project work, assignments, and time with your team.
Contact us
Have a question?
Send us a message about the program or your application. Our admissions team will reply by email.