International Delegation Visits Minnesota to Explore AI and Computer Science Education
"This visit provided an excellent opportunity to exchange ideas and demonstrate how Minnesota's collaborative approach is helping educators and students prepare for the future," said Emily Saed, Director of the Minnesota STEM Ecosystem. "Artificial intelligence is transforming every industry, and meaningful partnerships between education, industry, and community organizations are essential to ensuring learners have access to the knowledge and experiences needed to succeed."
On July 24, 2026, the Minnesota STEM Ecosystem welcomed an international delegation of technology, artificial intelligence, government, and innovation leaders from Brazil as part of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). Coordinated through Global Minnesota and the American Councils for International Education, the visit focused on how Minnesota is actively preparing students, educators, and the future workforce for an AI-driven economy through cross-system collaboration and cutting-edge educational initiatives.
Hosted by the Minnesota Technology Network (MTN) at the Ignite MN Business Center in Red Wing, the event brought together key leaders from across the region to showcase Minnesota's unified approach to technology education, research, and workforce development.
Bridging Global Perspectives & Local Innovation
The delegation gathered to explore how Minnesota is addressing the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and computer science education.
During the session, Kristi Dundore Zakariasen represented the Minnesota State IT Center of Excellence, sharing insights into how the Minnesota State College and University system, in strategic alignment with the University of Minnesota, is proactively addressing the state’s emerging AI needs. She highlighted how higher education institutions are aligning research, business needs, and educator preparation to build a future-ready workforce capable of leading in AI innovation and application.
A Collaborative Ecosystem Driving Minnesota's Tech Future
The international exchange spotlighted how statewide organizations combine forces to expand access to emerging technology education:
1. Minnesota State IT Center of Excellence
As a center of excellence within Minnesota State, the IT Center bridges higher education, K–12 schools, and industry partners. The Center drives IT and computer science workforce development, offers industry-recognized credentials, and supports educator professional development.
2. Minnesota STEM Ecosystem
Operating through a statewide network housed at the Southeast Service Cooperative (part of the MN Service Cooperatives), the Minnesota STEM Ecosystem connects more than 50 Learning Partners across K–12 education, higher education, industry, government, museums, and community organizations. The Ecosystem works to align policies, close the STEM workforce opportunity gap, and create accessible STEM learning pathways for all Minnesotans.
3. Minnesota Technology Network (MTN)
The Minnesota Technology Network (MTN) focuses on community-based, collaborative tech training and media production across the state. MTN showcases innovative programs in artificial intelligence, extended reality (AR/VR), digital media, and emerging technologies, empowering youth and adults with hands-on technical skills for the modern economy.
Looking Ahead
Through educator professional development, industry partnerships, hands-on learning resources, and higher education alignment, Minnesota continues to build a strong foundation for computer science and AI education. Hosting global leaders through programs like the IVLP reinforces the power of shared knowledge and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of technology learning.
To learn more about our partner organizations and ongoing computer science initiatives, visit: