Artificial intelligence is transforming industry, but successful AI adoption depends on people who can apply it to real operational challenges. Through its Novatus Academia AI Practitioner Program, UNIST is helping professionals develop those capabilities by combining hands-on AI education with projects based on real industrial data.

This summer, the program welcomed its ninth cohort in Ulsan while launching its inaugural cohort in Busan, further extending UNIST's industry-focused AI training model across the region.

The ninth Ulsan cohort officially began on June 26 at the UNIST Pioneers Campus, bringing together 58 professionals from 42 manufacturing companies, ICT firms, and public organizations. Participants will learn AI and data analytics while completing projects based on data from their own workplaces, addressing challenges in manufacturing, quality control, equipment management, safety, and production processes.

UNIST also launched the first Busan cohort on June 19 in partnership with the Busan INNOPOLIS. The 20-week program brings together 31 industry professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs, combining instruction in generative AI, data analytics, and AI model development with project-based learning (PBL) focused on real industrial challenges.

While both programs emphasize practical AI education, the Busan cohort also places a strong focus on technology commercialization. Participants will have opportunities to connect with technical consulting, startup support resources, and industry experts to help translate AI technologies into new business opportunities.

Since its launch in Ulsan in 2021, Novatus Academia has trained more than 250 professionals from over 130 companies. The program now operates across Ulsan, Busan, and Gyeongnam, supporting AI adoption through practical education tailored to regional industries.

“Novatus Academia was designed to meet the needs of industry,” said Dean Namhun Kim of UNIST Novatus Graduate School. “By combining practical AI education with real industrial projects, we aim to help professionals solve challenges in their organizations while supporting AI-driven innovation across the region.”

UNIST plans to further strengthen connections between its degree programs and professional education initiatives, expanding opportunities for industry professionals to develop practical AI expertise while supporting technology commercialization and industrial innovation.