LAS CRUCES — Recognizing that artificial intelligence is reshaping the way companies operate, New Mexico State University Global Campus has teamed with the Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance (MVEDA) to roll out an online “AI Readiness for Small Business” course. The program is designed specifically for owners and professionals in Southern New Mexico who want to explore how AI can improve efficiency, customer engagement, and employee support while navigating concerns about accuracy, privacy, security and responsible use.
Local partnership brings expertise and resources
Andrew Sedillo, NMSU Global executive director of strategic initiatives and partnerships, said, “AI is changing the workplace, and education can help businesses change with it. NMSU Global Campus is committed to giving professionals and businesses access to practical learning that keeps pace with emerging technologies. Our partnership with MVEDA is a great opportunity to help small businesses understand AI and make informed decisions about how they can use it.”
Davin Lopez, president and CEO of MVEDA, added, “Technology is changing the way businesses operate, and small businesses need access to information and resources that can help them keep pace. Building AI awareness can help business owners make more informed decisions about where these tools may add value while recognizing where human expertise and judgment remain critical.”
Course content focuses on practical application
The eight‑module curriculum covers a range of topics, including:
- Identifying AI tools that can streamline content creation, customer communication, research and data analysis.
- Evaluating the limitations of AI, such as potential errors, bias, and the need for human oversight.
- Understanding privacy and security obligations when handling customer data.
- Developing a customized AI adoption plan that aligns with each business’s goals and resources.
Rather than prescribing a one‑size‑fits‑all solution, the course encourages participants to assess how AI fits their unique operations and to balance technology with the irreplaceable value of human judgment.
Why the program matters for Southern New Mexico
Small businesses in Doña Ana County often operate with limited staff and tight budgets, making it difficult to experiment with new technology without clear guidance. By offering a free, accessible online format, NMSU Global Campus and MVEDA aim to lower the barrier to entry, ensuring that local entrepreneurs can compete with larger firms that already leverage AI.
Both partners stress that responsible AI use is essential. Participants will learn how to safeguard customer information, comply with state privacy statutes, and avoid over‑reliance on automated systems that could compromise quality or trust.
How to enroll
Interested business owners can register through the NMSU On‑Demand portal at nmsuondemand.nmsu.edu. The self‑paced course is open now, with new cohorts beginning each month.
For additional details, contact Karen Cooper at New Mexico State University (575‑646‑4040 or [email protected]).
Original reporting: Organ Mountain News (Las Cruces / Doña Ana County) — read the source article.
