Four-day camp introduces participants to artificial intelligence, digital literacy and emerging career pathways

MESA, Ariz. — August 20, 2026 -- Mesa Community College (MCC) and the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) partnered with Intel to host an Intel AI Camp, a four-day learning experience designed to introduce high school students to artificial intelligence, digital literacy and emerging career opportunities.

The free camp took place June 22-25 at MCC. Participants explored artificial intelligence through hands-on activities, project-based learning and collaborative problem-solving while developing skills that support future educational and career success.

During the camp, students learned foundational AI concepts, experimented with technologies such as chatbots and image recognition tools, and worked in teams to design and develop their own AI-powered applications and creative projects that address real-world challenges. 

Each student team successfully created apps eligible for submission to the Presidential AI Challenge. Several students also received personal invitations from Intel Corporation to participate in the Intel AI Global Impact Festival which takes place October-November 2026 where student innovators from more than 30 countries compete for prizes by showing their responsible AI innovation. 

The camp reflects MCC's commitment to providing innovative learning opportunities that prepare students for a rapidly evolving digital landscape and expose participants to pathways in higher education and the workforce.

"This camp gave participants an opportunity to see themselves as creators, innovators and problem-solvers," said Diane Meza, Executive Director for the MCCCD Maricopa IT Institute. "Artificial intelligence is transforming nearly every industry, and we hope camp participants gain practical experience using the AI technology.”

Instruction by MCC faculty Javid Ikram, Conrad DeLa Cruz and Intel employees guided students through interactive activities focused on artificial intelligence, digital literacy, teamwork and communication.

"Building a strong future workforce starts with expanding access to cutting-edge learning opportunities," said Anshul Sonak, global director for Intel's Digital Readiness Programs. "Through partnerships with institutions such as Mesa Community College, Intel is helping students gain AI skills and hands-on experience that will empower the next generation of innovators."

“By partnering with industry, we create meaningful opportunities for young people to explore emerging technologies, build confidence and imagine new career pathways. At MCCCD, we’re proud to help connect our colleges with partners like Intel to expand access to hands-on learning that prepares students for the future of work,” said Daniel Barajas, chief officer for MCCCD Workforce and Economic Development.

Additional camps throughout MCCCD are slated for the 2026-27 academic year.

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Media Contact: Dawn Zimmer, dawn.zimmer@mesacc.edu, 480-461-7892

Mesa Community College (MCC) is nationally recognized for its excellence in university transfer, career and technical programs, civic engagement and innovative education. Serving more than 25,500 students annually, MCC offers a range of degree and certificate programs across its two campuses and additional locations. MCC students contribute more than 8,500 hours of community service annually. MCC serves as a key resource for education, workforce development and lifelong learning. The college enhances student success through Guided Pathways with Integrated Support Services. A Hispanic Serving Institution, nearly 50% of MCC students are first-generation college attendees and it boasts the largest Indigenous student population among Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) colleges, supporting students from 22 Arizona tribes and additional out-of-state tribes. Our award-winning faculty are committed to helping students achieve their goals through high-quality education, training and undergraduate research opportunities. Located in the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona, MCC is one of 10 MCCCD colleges. Learn more at mesacc.edu/newsroom.

MCC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), hlcommission.org.

The Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) is an EEO institution and an equal opportunity employer of protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or national origin. A lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the career and technical education programs of the District. MCCCD does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination.