Student Handbook

Program Overview

The AI Capability Specialist Certificate is a 24-hour intensive workforce development credential designed to prepare you for technology support roles in AI-enhanced business environments. Upon successful completion, you will receive a Certificate of Completion and be eligible for the BrandVoice guaranteed interview pathway.

Program Structure

What's Included

• 24-Hour Intensive Training: Concentrated instruction across 7 modules
• Premium AI Tool Suite: Access to Replit, Nano Banana, VEO 3, Kling
• BrandVoice Employment Pipeline: Guaranteed interview within 30 days
• Free Additional Training: Level 2-4 training until employment
• Career Services: Resume, interview prep, job placement until hired

Attendance Policy

Attendance Requirements

Given the intensive 24-hour format, attendance at all sessions is critical:

• Minimum Attendance: 90% of scheduled hours (21.6 of 24 hours)
• Notification Required: Notify the instructor immediately of any absence
• Make-Up: Missed content must be completed before certification

Absence Reporting

To report an absence:

1. Email the Program Coordinator at [email] OR
2. Call/text the program phone at [number]
3. Provide the reason for absence

Attendance Impact

Because of the condensed format, missing more than 2.4 hours of instruction may affect certification eligibility. Students who fall below 90% attendance must complete make-up work or may need to enroll in a future cohort.

Academic Policies

Grading Scale

Assessment Methods

Student competency is evaluated through:

• Practical Demonstrations: Hands-on skills assessments
• Lab Exercises: Applied projects using AI tools
• Scenario-Based Evaluations: Real-world situation responses
• Portfolio Components: Work samples demonstrating competencies

Passing Requirements

• Minimum Grade: 70% average across all assessments
• All Modules: Each module assessment must be passed
• Reassessment: One reassessment opportunity per module if initial attempt fails

Academic Integrity

We maintain high standards of academic integrity. You are expected to:

• Submit original work for all assignments
• Properly cite and attribute all sources
• Not share assessment answers with other students
• Use AI tools only as permitted by assignment guidelines
• Represent your own skills and abilities honestly

AI Tool Usage Policy

AI tools are an important part of this curriculum. The policy varies by assignment:

• AI-Assisted Assignments: AI tools may be used freely; disclose usage in your submission
• AI-Restricted Assignments: AI tools may not be used; tests your independent skills
• AI-Required Assignments: You must demonstrate proficiency with specific AI tools

Each assignment will clearly indicate the AI usage policy.

Integrity Violations

• First offense: Written warning and assignment resubmission
• Second offense: Failing grade on assignment
• Third offense: Dismissal from program

Student Conduct

All students are expected to maintain professional conduct throughout the program:

Expected Behaviors

• Treat instructors, staff, and fellow students with respect
• Participate actively in all sessions and activities
• Arrive to sessions on time and prepared
• Keep camera on during live video sessions when requested
• Complete assignments by stated deadlines
• Communicate professionally in all interactions

Prohibited Behaviors

• Harassment, discrimination, or bullying of any kind
• Disruptive behavior during sessions
• Use of inappropriate language or content
• Sharing or distributing course materials outside the program
• Impersonating another student or staff member

Conduct Violations

Violations of student conduct standards may result in:

1. Verbal warning
2. Written warning
3. Suspension from sessions
4. Dismissal from program

Technology Requirements

To participate successfully in this program, you need:

Hardware

• Computer (desktop or laptop) with webcam and microphone
• Minimum: 8GB RAM, modern processor (Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or equivalent)
• Reliable internet connection (10+ Mbps recommended)

Software

• Current web browser (Chrome, Firefox, or Edge recommended)
• Video conferencing software (Zoom or Teams)
• Premium AI tools will be provided during the program

Technical Support

If you experience technical difficulties:

1. Contact technical support at [email/phone]
2. Notify your instructor if issues affect your participation
3. We will help troubleshoot AI tool access issues

Premium AI Tool Suite

Your program includes access to industry-leading AI platforms:

• Replit: AI-powered coding and development environment
• Nano Banana: AI content and creative production platform
• VEO 3: Advanced video AI generation and editing
• Kling: AI visual content creation and automation

Access will be activated at the start of the program. These tools are included in your program cost and will be available throughout your training and additional levels.

Student Support Services

During the Program

• Instructional Support: Direct access to instructors during sessions
• Technology Support: Help with AI tool setup and troubleshooting
• Small Cohorts: Personalized attention and Q&A
• Recorded Sessions: Access for review if needed

Accommodations

Students with disabilities may request reasonable accommodations. Contact the Program Coordinator to discuss your needs. Accommodations may include:

• Extended time on assessments
• Alternative assessment formats
• Assistive technology support

Career Services

• Resume writing and optimization
• Mock interview sessions
• LinkedIn profile optimization
• Job search strategy coaching
• BrandVoice interview preparation

Grievance Procedure

If you have a concern or complaint:

Step 1: Informal Resolution

Within 5 business days of the issue, discuss the concern with your instructor or the involved party.

Step 2: Formal Grievance

If unresolved, submit a written grievance to the Program Director within 10 business days. Include:

• Your name and contact information
• Description of the concern
• Dates and individuals involved
• Desired resolution

Step 3: Investigation & Response

The Program Director will investigate and provide a written response within 15 business days.

Step 4: Appeal

If unsatisfied with the response, you may appeal to the Executive Director within 5 business days.

External Resources

Certification Requirements

To receive your AI Capability Specialist Certificate, you must:

1. Complete all 24 program hours
2. Achieve minimum 70% on all assessments
3. Pass all module assessments
4. Maintain minimum 90% attendance (21.6 hours)
5. Demonstrate professional conduct
6. Complete interview preparation
7. Fulfill all financial obligations

Certificate Issuance

Upon meeting all requirements, certificates are issued within 5 business days of program completion. Digital certificates include verification credentials.

BrandVoice Employment Pathway

Qualified graduates are eligible for the BrandVoice guaranteed interview pathway:

Eligibility Requirements

• Complete all 24 program hours
• Achieve 90%+ attendance
• Pass all assessments (70%+)
• Demonstrate professional conduct
• Complete resume and interview preparation

What You Receive

• Guaranteed interview with BrandVoice within 30 days of completion
• Priority consideration for matching positions
• Interview preparation support
• Ongoing consideration as positions open

Note: The guaranteed interview pathway provides enhanced employment opportunities but does not constitute an absolute guarantee of employment. Placement depends on candidate qualifications, available positions, and successful interview performance.

Free Additional Training Levels

Graduates receive free access to continued training until they secure employment:

These additional levels continue at no cost until you secure employment. This is part of our commitment to your success.

Important Contacts