In March 2018, Microsoft and Simplon created the AI School with the aim of training job seekers in artificial intelligence. Three years later, this school has evolved into a strong network of 24 schools in 9 French regions. During this period, 500 learners, all with different profiles, have been trained, but Microsoft and Simplon have indicated this week that they want to go further by training 1000 learners together at the end of 2022.

A two-stage learning process

The Microsoft by Simplon AI School is a program in two phases. The first phase lasts 7 months and aims to intensively train the learner in skills related to algorithms, data processing and the use of AI technologies. The second phase, lasting one year, aims to carry out a work-study placement with one of the partner companies taking part in the project.

A learner at the AI School, Sakina Aaloune, testifies about her experience:

Graduated with a degree in Economics, I decided to take a new turn to become a Developer in Artificial Intelligence. In 2019, I had the opportunity to join the Microsoft by Simplon AI School in Nantes to train for this job and since May 2020, I’ve been on a work-study program at Crédit Agricole Anjou Maine as a Statistics Analysis Assistant

All this is possible thanks to the partner network of 110 companies that has been formed over the last three years, but also thanks to the support of the regions, Pôle Emploi and the skills operators (OPCO).

With the aim of including everyone

The program also prioritizes women: in March 2019 was inaugurated the Ambition Feminine class, composed of 80% women. And in 2020, priority has been given to learners with Asperger’s autism. As part of the goal of 1,000 learners for 2022, Microsoft and Simplon hope that the promotions will include between 40% and 50% women.

Louise Joly, Director of Microsoft by Simplon Schools discusses this goal and the motivations behind the AI School:

“Let’s continue together to develop skills in AI and around the cloud, to promote employment and diversification of profiles, and that everywhere in France!”

According to the two partners, the program has enabled them to best meet the needs of the territories, to enhance local expertise and industries (health, agriculture, banking, industry…) and to contribute to the sustainable maintenance and development of employment.

Translated from Bilan : l’Ecole IA Microsoft By Simplon fête ses trois ans d’existence