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NextGen AI Studio: Omaha's Most Hands-On AI Summer Program Is Back

No coding experience? No problem. The NextGen AI Studio Summer 2026 edition is open to all high school students ready to learn AI fundamentals and build with AI.

  • published: 2026/02/26
  • contact: Kaylee Pena Guerrero - College of Information Science and Technology
  • email: kpenaguerrero@unomaha.edu
Mahadevan Subramaniam, Ph.D. stands between two students holding an AI-CCORE NextGen AI Studio Certificate of Completion in a university classroom.

Mahadevan Subramaniam, Ph.D. (center), professor and department chair of UNO's computer science department, presents certificates of completion to students at the conclusion of the 2025 NextGen AI Studio summer program.

🤖 What is Happening?
As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly transforms today's workforce, the Artificial Intelligence – Center for Collaborative Outreach, Research, and Education (AI-CCORE) is hosting the second edition of the NextGen AI Studio — a summer program designed to introduce AI fundamentals and core skills to high school students, preparing the next generation with the knowledge and skills to thrive in an AI-driven world.

📅 When?
The program will begin June 1 and conclude July 10, 2026. Sessions will be held Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 3 to 6 p.m. The 2026 NextGen AI Studio will be available in a hybrid format, either online or in person at the University of Nebraska Omaha's Peter Kiewit Institute. Sessions are priced at $250 per week. Financial assistance options are available based on availability.

💡 Why It Matters

The six-week curriculum is thoughtfully designed for learners with little to no background in computer science or artificial intelligence. The program will guide students through progressive exploration of core AI topics such as machine learning fundamentals, retrieval-augmented generation, ethical AI practices, and no-code development and automation tools. The program culminates in a capstone project experience in which students conceptualize, develop and publicly present original AI-driven solutions, demonstrating the skills and knowledge gained throughout the program.

Students can look forward to creative projects, teamwork-oriented challenges, and guidance from expert AI faculty and applied innovation practitioners.

💬 What People Are Saying

"When students learn how to build with AI early, they gain the power to turn ideas into impact — whether that means launching a startup, transforming a family business, or leading change inside an established organization. NextGen AI Studio is about giving students that multiplier effect before they even step onto a college campus," said Mahadevan "Subu" Subramaniam, Ph.D., computer science department head and professor at UNO College of Information Science & Technology.

🔗 How to Get Connected

For more information on the program, visit the AI-CCORE website or contact Anita Lee at anitalee@unomaha.edu.