Staff from Burlington County Institute of Technology train using artificial intelligence.
By Eder Joseph, assistant superintendent at BCIT
Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept of the future; it’s a defining force of the present. At the Burlington County Institute of Technology (BCIT), our school leaders and educators believe education must do more than respond to these changes. We must lead.
As a career and technical education (CTE) district serving approximately 2,200 students across two campuses in New Jersey, we understand that today’s learners will graduate into a world where generative artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming nearly every industry. That’s why we are taking bold steps to integrate AI into instruction and school operations with a focus on intentionality, ethics and workforce readiness.
This school year, BCIT is launching a districtwide AI Task Force made up of educators, administrators, students and industry partners. Together, this group will explore how AI is reshaping the workplace and how we can ensure our students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and critical thinking needed to succeed.
To guide this work, we are using the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards for AI in education and engaging in ongoing professional learning with Thomas Semko, a talent development expert, education consultant and adjunct professor at The College of New Jersey. Through his support, our staff are learning how to use platforms such as ChatGPT, Gemini and MagicSchool to enhance instructional planning, support student learning and streamline day-to-day responsibilities.
Students across multiple CTE programs are already engaging with AI in meaningful and relevant ways. In Engineering and Computer Science, they are using AI for simulation, modeling and coding. Allied Health and Biomedical Science students are exploring how AI is impacting clinical decision-making and medical research. Future Educators are studying how AI can assist with lesson creation and support diverse learning needs.
BCIT’s strong partnerships with industry leaders through our Program Advisory Committees allow us to align classroom experiences with real-world expectations. These relationships ensure our students are not only exposed to the latest technology, but are also gaining the career-ready skills that matter most to employers.
At the same time, we are embedding AI ethics and digital citizenship into our approach. Our students are learning how to evaluate the risks and implications of AI use, including data privacy, algorithmic bias, misinformation and authorship. Understanding how to use AI is important, but understanding its broader impact is essential.
BCIT is committed to preparing students to thrive in an AI-powered world. Our vision is built on the belief that career training must evolve alongside technology. To effectively do so, we also seek collaboration from business leaders and industry professionals who can share their insights and help us shape the future of workforce development.
Reach out to connect. We welcome your partnership.
This article originally appeared Aug. 4, 2025 in ROI-NJ.
