SWD AI PROGRAM · FREE CLASSES
Learn to use AI for your job, your business and your life.
Next class: AI for Work starts Tuesday, October 13 — four sessions over two weeks (Oct 13, 15, 20, 22). SWD office 10:00 AM–12:00 PM or LAMP Campus 1:00–3:00 PM, plus an online section Thursdays at 7:00 PM starting October 8.
SWD's AI classes are free, hands-on and taught in Kansas City and online. Choose the track that fits you — AI for Work (job seekers and employees), AI for Business (owners and teams), AI for Leadership (managers) or AI for Personal (everyday life, always free). Computers are provided, no experience is needed, and you earn a certificate when you finish. You must be 18 or older; bring a photo ID.
14 Workstations & 2 Locations
Professional AI-ready computers
3 Programs
Trades, entrepreneurship, digital literacy
6,000+
Lives impacted by SWD since 2018
WHY WE BUILT THIS
“AI Is Changing Every Job in America. Most of Our Community Doesn't Know It Yet.”
Artificial intelligence is no longer a future problem. It's already here — reshaping hiring decisions, job requirements, and the skills that employers pay top dollar for. In construction, in manufacturing, in healthcare, in logistics — AI tools are being used every single day.
For workers who are re-entering the workforce, aging out of previous careers, navigating the system for the first time, or simply trying to provide for their families — being digitally behind is no longer just an inconvenience. It is a barrier that locks people out of livable-wage careers.
SWD built its AI program to close that gap permanently. Not by teaching technology for its own sake — but by teaching our participants how to use AI to advance the careers, businesses and opportunities they're already pursuing. Every class is free, and you can start on the platform at swdalgorithm.com.
“Being digitally behind is no longer just an inconvenience — it is a barrier to economic survival. We built this lab to tear that barrier down.”
— SWD Leadership Team
THE FACILITY
“A Real Lab. Real Equipment. Real Results.”
This isn't a classroom with a laptop cart. SWD's AI Lab at 402 E. Bannister is a purpose-built, professionally equipped training space — and the same classes run at the LAMP Campus and online.
The Hardware
- 8 professional desktop all‑in‑one workstations
- 2 laptops for mobile learning and cohort flexibility
- Large presentation display for instructor-led sessions
- Cameras, headphones, and microphones at every station
- Professional networking and secure, isolated Wi‑Fi
- All equipment managed and maintained by Widerange Management Group
The AI Instructor
- AI-powered interactive instructor avatar embedded in every session
- Real-time question answering, tutoring, and skills coaching
- Responds to natural language — no tech background required
- Available during lab hours and accessible via platform after hours
- Powered by the Study Buddy Pro platform — built by Widerange Management Group
The Platform
- Every workstation is enrolled in SWD's private workspace on Study Buddy Pro (swd.studybuddypro.app)
- Fully branded, fully isolated — SWD's data is never shared
- Program administrators have full visibility: dashboards, progress tracking, completion reports
- Integrated booking via GHL LeadConnector for mentor and instructor sessions
- Accessible from lab workstations, personal devices, and assigned tablets
THE CURRICULUM
“Four Classes. One Goal: Put AI to Work for You.”
SWD's AI program is four classes — AI for Work, AI for Business, AI for Leadership and AI for Personal — taught in Kansas City and online. Pick the one that fits where you are. Register at swdalgorithm.com/ai-lab.
01
AI for Personal
Who It's For: Anyone who wants to use AI in everyday life — planning, calendars, budgets and family admin. No experience needed.
What They Learn:
- Computer and device fundamentals
- Email, documents, and productivity tools (Google Workspace / Microsoft Office)
- Internet navigation, online job applications, and digital communication
- Introduction to AI tools for everyday work tasks
- Online safety, privacy, and professional digital conduct
Outcome: Digital confidence to participate fully in today's workforce — in any sector.
02
AI for Work
Who It's For: Job seekers and employees — resumes, applications, research, writing and everyday work tasks with AI.
What They Learn:
Writing with AI: emails, resumes, cover letters and reports
Researching and summarizing information fast
Organizing your tasks, calendar and follow-ups
Prompting basics and how to check AI’s work
Safe, responsible AI use on the job
Outcome: Real AI skills that translate directly into job performance and career advancement.
03
AI for Business
Who It's For: Owners and small teams — planning, content, customer follow-up and the back office. Managers: ask about AI for Leadership.
What They Learn:
Planning, quoting and proposals with AI
Marketing content, social posts and customer follow-up
Back-office help: invoices, scheduling and record-keeping
Researching customers, competitors and new work
Picking the right AI tools for a small business
Outcome: Technology fluency to operate and grow a construction business in a competitive market.
POWERED BY
“The Technology Behind the Program.”
SWD's AI program runs on the SWD Algorithm platform at swdalgorithm.com — where every participant gets an account — plus three AI-powered tools built for the construction and workforce industries by SWD's technology partner, Widerange Management Group.
Study Buddy Pro · studybuddypro.app
The #1 AI-powered platform for construction workforce training and licensing exam prep.
What SWD participants access:
- Dedicated SWD workspace at swd.studybuddypro.app
- Construction licensing exam prep (General Contractor, and expanding)
- Apprenticeship program tracking and curriculum
- AI tutor available 24/7 for questions, quizzing, and skills review
- Community feed, cohort channels, and peer connection
- Progress dashboards for participants and program administrators
- Mentor scheduling integrated with GHL booking
Status: LIVE — Active for SWD cohorts
Nail It Pro · nailitpro.app
Built for construction entrepreneurs.
What SWD participants access:
- Business startup guidance for construction contractors
- Tools for bidding, proposals, and project documentation
- Entrepreneurship curriculum aligned with SWD's Minority Contractors Initiative
Status: Available to SWD participants through AI Lab access.
GovCon Autopilot · govconautopilot.app
Navigate government contracting without the guesswork.
What SWD participants access:
- Step-by-step government contracting navigation
- Tools for SAM.gov registration, bid research, and proposal prep
- Especially valuable for Section 3 participants and minority contractors
Status: Available to SWD participants through AI Lab access.
SWD's AI program technology is built, deployed and maintained by Widerange Management Group, Inc. — a Wichita, KS-based technology company specializing in AI-powered platforms for construction and workforce industries. WMG serves as SWD's exclusive technology partner and platform provider.
OUR MISSION PEOPLE
“If Anybody Told You Technology Isn't for You — This Program Is Your Answer.”
SWD's AI program was designed from the ground up for the people who need it most. Not the person who already has a laptop at home and a LinkedIn profile. The person who has never had a real shot — and is ready to take one.
Re-Entry Individuals
“Your past does not determine your access to this lab.”
Veterans
“You served. Now let technology serve you back.”
Youth (18+)
“Start your career in the industry that's always hiring.”
Women in Trades
“You belong in every room — including this one.”
Dislocated Workers
“Your experience isn't lost. We'll help you transfer it.”
Mid-Skilled Workers
“Upgrade your skills. Upgrade your income.”
Disadvantaged Communities
“Economic mobility isn't a dream. It's a curriculum.”
SWD's AI classes are free and open to anyone 18 and up in the Kansas City area — no prior SWD enrollment required. Register online, pick your location (SWD office, LAMP campus or online), and bring a photo ID to your first session. Seats are limited, so register early.
PARTNER WITH THE LAB
“Invest in the Workforce Kansas City Actually Needs.”
SWD's AI program isn't just a class. It's a talent pipeline — and the entry point to one of the most work-ready, mission-aligned candidate pools in the region.
Employer Partners
Receive direct access to SWD AI program graduates
Candidates are digital-literate, trained, and work-ready
SWD is Section 3 Certified — qualifies for HUD/federal project workforce requirements
Fair Hiring Policy partnerships available
Corporate Sponsors
- Sponsor seats in the AI Lab for direct community impact
- Receive recognition on-site and in all SWD materials
- Demonstrated ROI through participant outcome reporting
- Eligible to receive matched grant funding through SWD's development partnerships
Grant & Institutional Funders
- Fully aligned with WIOA, HUD Section 3, and CDBG technology set‑asides
- 501(c)(3) with a track record: 6,000+ lives impacted, 8 years operational, two-city footprint
- Detailed outcome reporting and platform data available for grant documentation
- Letters of support and program documentation available upon request
THE PATHWAY
“From Application to Employed — Here's How It Works.”
Submit your application online or in person at SWD's Kansas City office. Applications are reviewed within 5 business days. No prior tech experience required.
You'll complete a brief skills and career goals assessment. This helps SWD place you in the right program track and identify your AI Lab learning path.
You're enrolled in your SWD program and activated in the Study Buddy Pro platform. Your workspace, your courses, and your AI tutor are ready.
You attend structured sessions in the ConstructAI Lab. Hands-on time with AI tools, digital literacy curriculum, and career prep — in-person with a real instructor and AI tutor support.
Complete your digital literacy and/or trade training curriculum. Earn certifications, complete exam prep, and build the documented skills that employers recognize.
SWD's employment services team connects you directly to employer partners. Graduates enter Apprenticeship Programs, secure employment, or launch contractor businesses with Nail It Pro and GovCon Autopilot.
BY THE NUMBERS
Proven Impact. Real Community Outcomes.
501(c)(3) Nonprofit — Since 2018 · Section 3 Certified · Pre-Apprenticeship Program — Allied Trades Partner · WIOA-Aligned Programs · Technology Partner: Widerange Management Group
QUESTIONS
“Everything You Need to Know About the ConstructAI Lab.”
Do I need any tech experience to apply?
None at all. The ConstructAI Lab is specifically designed for people who are new to technology or feel behind. Our Digital Literacy Foundation track starts from the very beginning and meets you exactly where you are.
How much does it cost to participate?
AI Lab access is included at no cost for all active SWD program participants. SWD's programs are funded through grants, employer partnerships, and community support — so there is no cost to our mission populations.
I already have some tech skills. Is there a more advanced track?
Yes. The AI Tools for Career Advancement track and the Construction Entrepreneurship + Technology track are designed for participants who already have foundational digital skills and are ready to go further. Your intake assessment will help us place you in the right track.
What is Study Buddy Pro?
Study Buddy Pro is an AI-powered platform built specifically for construction workforce training and licensing exam prep. Every SWD participant gets access to a private SWD workspace on the platform — completely free through our partnership with Widerange Management Group. It includes your curriculum, an AI tutor, progress tracking, and community features.
Can I access the platform from home?
Yes. Your Study Buddy Pro account is accessible from any device — your phone, a home computer, or a tablet. You don't need to be in the lab to keep learning.
How do employer partners benefit from the AI Lab?
Employer partners get direct access to a pipeline of candidates who are trained, digitally literate, and career-ready. SWD's Section 3 certification means our graduates can satisfy federal workforce participation requirements on HUD-funded and large commercial development projects.
How do I donate or sponsor?
You can sponsor individual participant seats, contribute to hardware and operations funding, or establish a formal employer partnership. Use the contact form below or reach out directly to our team.
Apply for AI Lab Access
Tell us about yourself and where you're headed. Our team will follow up with next steps within 5 business days.
Partner With the ConstructAI Lab
Employers, funders, and institutions — use this form to start a conversation with our team.
“The Future of Work Starts in Kansas City.”
Whether you're applying for lab access, looking to hire our graduates, or ready to invest in your community — there's a place for you here.
Strategic Workforce Development Inc.
Where Opportunity Meets Potential — Kansas City, MO
Legal & Status
501(c)(3) Nonprofit — EIN on file.
Section 3 Certified workforce organization.
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