UAB and ASSP Launch Applied AI for EHS Certificate for Safety Professionals

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) and the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) introduced the Applied AI for EHS Certificate, a professional education program designed to equip environmental health and safety (EHS) professionals with the skills to integrate artificial intelligence into workplace safety systems. The program, launched in May 2026, emphasizes AI literacy, technology evaluation, and the design of AI-enabled safety solutions while addressing governance and responsible use. Developed in partnership, the certificate focuses on practical applications such as hazard identification, risk visibility, and data-driven decision-making. Participants will learn to align AI tools with management systems and industry standards, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency. The curriculum is structured to provide a systems-level understanding of AI’s role in enhancing workplace safety. The initiative is led by instructors Marla Corson, PhD, CSP, and Nia Jetter, who combine expertise in safety leadership, AI, robotics, and intelligent systems. Corson, founder of Corson Consulting & Speaking and adjunct professor at UAB, and Jetter, senior principal technologist at Amazon, bring real-world experience in implementing large-scale safety improvements. Their collaboration ensures the program delivers both technical depth and practical insights. Linda Tapp, ASSP president, highlighted the importance of early adoption in shaping AI’s role within the EHS profession. She noted that the certificate will help professionals leverage AI to enhance workplace safety while maintaining oversight and operational integrity. Donald Burke, PhD, UAB’s graduate program director, underscored the need for professionals to move beyond AI awareness to responsible application. The program reflects a broader effort by UAB and ASSP to lead in responsible AI education for safety professionals. As AI continues to transform workplace tools and systems, the certificate aims to empower EHS leaders to evaluate, govern, and implement AI technologies effectively. This initiative addresses the growing demand for practical training that balances innovation with safety and ethical considerations.