Clemson University is taking a proactive step in preparing its students for the rapidly evolving job market with the launch of the clemson Career Innovation Lab. Officially opening its doors on March 5th in the Hendrix Student Center’s Tiger Den, this pilot programme is designed to equip students with the skills to navigate an increasingly AI-driven world.

The driving force behind this initiative is Maggie Erikson, who envisioned the lab in 2022. Collaborating with the Center for Career and Professional Progress, Erikson aimed to create a space where students could learn to effectively leverage AI tools for career advancement.

in today’s job market, we are seeing a decrease in entry-level positions in part due to AI. I think it is indeed realy critically important for students to start learning the skills to adapt with increasing AI in the job market and higher education,

Maggie Erikson, Founder of the Career Innovation Lab

Erikson’s foresight addresses a growing concern in the U.S. job market: the displacement of entry-level positions due to automation. according to a recent Brookings Institute report, automation could impact up to 25% of U.S. jobs in the coming decades, highlighting the urgency for students to acquire AI-related skills. This lab serves as a crucial resource, helping Clemson students stay competitive in this evolving landscape, much like coding bootcamps and specialized AI training programs are doing across the nation.

The lab’s development began in the fall of 2024,supported by the Center for Career and Professional Development and a team of student interns through Clemson’s University Professional Internship and Co-op Program. These interns play a vital role in providing hands-on training to students during events and drop-in hours, focusing on AI skills and overall career readiness.

I’m passionate about the intersection of technology and business. Seeing AI reshape how we work, make decisions, and interact across industries inspired me to contribute to this evolution,

McKinley Eads, Senior Financial Management Major and Lab intern

Eads’ statement reflects a broader sentiment among students recognizing the transformative power of AI.
She further added, This led me to my internship with the Career Innovation Lab, which empowers students through AI to support their professional and personal growth, aligning with my goal of creating impactful, future-focused solutions.

The Career Innovation Lab offers a range of opportunities for clemson students, including:

• Exploring new AI platforms
• Practicing prompt engineering
• Receiving resume guidance and refinement
• Exploring various careers and majors

These offerings are particularly relevant in today’s hiring environment, where skills like prompt engineering – the ability to effectively communicate with AI systems – are increasingly valued. Companies across the U.S., from tech giants in Silicon Valley to marketing firms in New York City, are actively seeking individuals who can leverage AI to improve efficiency and innovation.The lab provides a practical training ground for students to develop these sought-after skills.

The program is set to expand in the fall 2025 semester, dedicating two days a week to student engagement: one day for all students and another specifically for a designated Clemson college. This targeted approach underscores the university’s commitment to integrating AI education across various disciplines.

Erikson emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for students to learn and experiment with AI:

I want the Career Innovation Lab to be a fun, safe space where students can make mistakes the right way and learn to utilize AI to work with technology, not against it. Higher education is going to need to adapt to the increase in AI technology to prepare students for the future,

Maggie Erikson, Founder of the Career Innovation Lab

This approach directly addresses concerns about the ethical use of AI, particularly in academic settings. The lab aims to foster a culture of responsible AI adoption, teaching students not only how to use these tools but also how to use them ethically and effectively.This is especially crucial given the ongoing debate in U.S. universities about the use of AI in coursework and the need for clear guidelines and policies.

erikson acknowledges the challenges surrounding AI, including concerns about academic integrity and negative perceptions among some faculty members. This recognition is crucial for gaining buy-in from both students and faculty, ensuring the lab’s long-term success.

The Career Innovation Lab has seen remarkable initial success, with over 150 students participating in its first month. Active on Instagram and LinkedIn, the lab is continuously sharing updates and engaging with the Clemson community.

Here is a recent post from the lab on instagram:

Experts in career development emphasize the importance of integrating AI literacy into higher education. According to Dr. Jane Smith, a career counselor at Stanford University, “Students who understand how to leverage AI tools will have a meaningful advantage in the job market. It’s not just about technical skills; it’s about understanding how AI can augment human capabilities.”

The skills learned at the Clemson Career Innovation Lab have numerous practical applications for U.S. students:

• Resume Optimization: Using AI-powered tools to tailor resumes to specific job descriptions, increasing the chances of getting noticed by recruiters.
• Job Searching: Leveraging AI platforms to identify relevant job openings and track request progress.
• Interview preparation: utilizing AI-driven mock interview tools to practice answering common interview questions and receive personalized feedback.
• Career Exploration: Employing AI algorithms to analyze career paths based on individual skills and interests.

The Clemson Career Innovation Lab represents a forward-thinking approach to career development, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of an AI-driven future. By providing access to cutting-edge tools and training,Clemson University is empowering its students to thrive in the evolving U.S. job market. As more universities across the nation recognize the importance of AI literacy, programs like this will become increasingly vital in shaping the next generation of American professionals.