ERIC Number: ED678146
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2026-Jan-19
Pages: 19
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Policy Recommendations for New Jersey's Artificial Intelligence Leadership in K-12, Higher Education, and Workforce Development
Online Submission
This paper presents a policy framework to position New Jersey as a national leader in artificial intelligence (AI) education and workforce development. Through analysis of current state initiatives--including the NJ AI Hub, AI Task Force reports, apprenticeship programs, and regulatory guidance--we identify gaps and opportunities across K-12, higher education, and workforce development sectors. We propose a multi-layered approach visualized through interconnected frameworks: an integrated AI education ecosystem, phased implementation roadmaps for K-12 AI literacy, a statewide AI curriculum consortium structure, multi-track workforce development pathways, and equity and access frameworks. Quantitative analysis reveals that while 20-25%+ of New Jersey's workforce already uses AI technology daily, only 20-25% of educators feel prepared for AI integration. Our policy recommendations address this gap through a $165 million annual investment strategy with projected 3.8x return on investment, creating pathways for 15,000-20,000 new AI jobs by 2030. Recommendations include more layered, interconnected and framework-styled methods for establishing AI literacy standards for all K-12 students, creating specialized AI high schools, expanding community college AI programs, developing industry-aligned university curricula, and implementing statewide AI teacher training. We also address equity and risk considerations, funding mechanisms, and suggested implementation timelines. This is a pure review paper and all findings are from suggested literature.
Publication Type: Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education; Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: New Jersey
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A


