AI CORE
Transforming Student Learning Into Leadership Through Real-World AI Innovation
The University of Arizona's AI Core is an experiential learning program that pays students to work on real-world AI projects with university and community partners. We bridge theory with practice in cutting-edge areas like digital twins, virtual reality, large language models, and computer vision — building job-ready skills for the AI careers of tomorrow.
Hands-On Learning
Students apply AI tools — LLMs, computer vision, XR technologies — to solve real problems, going far beyond theoretical coursework into practical application.
Project-Based Work
From digital twins of Biosphere 2 to VR experiences for Pima County tourism, students develop solutions that make real impact in our community.
Interdisciplinary Hub
We connect students with faculty and partners across health, agriculture, education, retail, climate science, and more — fostering cross-domain innovation.
Workforce Development
Students build portfolios and industry-relevant skills in a startup-like environment, preparing them for AI roles across every sector.
Ethical AI Focus
We promote responsible AI development with an emphasis on inclusive design, ensuring technology serves everyone equitably.
Innovation Hub
AI Core acts as a catalyst for practical AI applications across fields like healthcare, education, tourism, and sustainable agriculture.
Current Focus Areas & Partners
Biosphere 2
Digital twin development for food security and climate research
Pima County
VR tourism experiences and AI-powered visitor center technology
Medical Simulation
AI-driven medical training simulations and personalized learning
Retail Sciences
Digital twins and XR experiences for the Lundgren Retail Lab
Our Mission
"AI Core transforms student learning into leadership by providing practical experience in applying cutting-edge AI for societal benefit."
Meet the Director
Director of AI, XR and Student Success
Ash Black is a creative technologist and experiential educator with a long track record of innovation from the early days of the web to the AI and XR era of today. A specialist in student engagement, he is passionate about experiential learning and champions a hands-on approach to mastering technology. At the University of Arizona, he leads AI- and XR-based student success strategies and is working to build internships, jobs and economic expansion across Arizona.
Specializations
Education
University of York
The University of Arizona
Latest from AI Core
WebXR World
Create and explore immersive 3D worlds powered by AI. Generate stunning 3D models in customizable skybox environments with dynamic lighting for education, visualization, and innovation.
Featured Projects
Biosphere 3
Building a comprehensive digital replica of the Biosphere 3 facility for scientific research and environmental monitoring. This project integrates 3D modeling, real-time sensor data, and machine learning.
WebXR World
Generate 3D models in a Skybox environment using AI prompts. Customize lighting and explore interactive 3D spaces for education and visualization.
Digital Twin of the Lundgren Science Retail Lab
Explore our digital simulation of the University of Arizona Lundgren Science Retail Lab — where physical meets virtual for AI-driven retail analytics.
WebcamGPT
Webcam GPT captures images from your webcam and uses AI to describe, analyze, and maintain contextual memory of what it sees — allowing for interactive, time-aware conversations based on your surroundings.
