Consider the young tennis enthusiast curious about AI’s role in the game, or a sports commentator keen on understanding data-driven insights. Today, the overlap between sports and technology is creating unique career opportunities, underscoring the need for accessible, targeted education.
AI and Tennis: A Powerful Combination
The increasing relevance of AI is evident; over half of CEOs are recruiting for roles centered on generative AI, many of which didn’t exist a year ago. Yet, for many learners, finding a starting point is challenging, with 40% of students reporting that they lack guidance on where to begin. Addressing this gap, IBM has launched free AI content on SkillsBuild specifically crafted to teach AI concepts through tennis.
The content offers an interactive microlearning session showcasing AI’s impact on tennis, from electronic line calling to real-time analytics. For those looking to dive deeper, the “Learn AI Skills with Tennis” guidebook introduces AI topics such as data modeling, different types of AI (like IBM’s Granite language model), and ethical considerations—all linked back to tennis. Learners can discover how to turn match data into AI-ready formats or create prompts that operate as smoothly as a perfect serve.
Expanding AI Education Through Strategic Collaborations
At IBM, collaboration is central to advancing access to technology education. By partnering with organizations like the USTA Foundation, IBM is expanding AI education to students and adult learners in under-resourced communities. Through IBM SkillsBuild, USTA Foundation participants gain free access to career readiness resources, reaching around 25,000 young people across 250 chapters nationwide. These courses cover essential skills, from AI fundamentals to resume writing and public speaking, helping students build a foundation for future careers. Students and educators can also earn IBM digital credentials, access customized learning plans, and attend specialized workshops.
Building on a 30-year IBM partnership with the USTA, which uses IBM’s AI and data capabilities to enhance fan experiences, the collaboration now broadens to provide learning resources for the next generation of tennis players and tech enthusiasts.
How AI and Tennis Are Empowering Future Innovators
The intersection of AI and tennis offers a glimpse into a future where technology transforms both sports and career possibilities. IBM’s partnership with the USTA Foundation and SkillsBuild exemplifies the impact of integrating AI education into various fields, providing young people with tools to succeed. By making AI accessible, IBM is not only preparing young people for tech-driven careers but also igniting their passion for both technology and sports.
IBM is committed to training 30 million people by 2030, including 2 million in AI by 2026.