The United Way of Southern Chester County announced the winners of the 2024 AI Skill-a-Thon, a free, 30-day skilling competition supported by Microsoft to help local professionals, job seekers, students and employers learn basic knowledge in AI to help them in their chosen career paths. 

As part of Microsoft’s AI Skills Initiative, all courses in the Skill-A-Thon were free to complete and available online via smartphone, tablet, desktop, or laptop. While there was an emphasis on AI-skills, participants could also choose from courses that offer entry-level digital skills, soft skills, or essential role-based skills for in-demand careers. The courses are accessible in both English and Spanish and designed to introduce learners to new skills in an on-demand format. Anyone 16 and older can tap into the learning pathways and courses, including employers or individuals.

“AI can empower workers around the country – but only if everyone, everywhere has the skills to use it,” said J.J. Childress, Microsoft TechSpark Manager. “By supporting the United Way of Southern Chester County, Microsoft is helping to equip workers with necessary skills for the AI economy and help people build their careers.” 

Terry Vodery, CEO of United Way of Southern Chester County added, “Learning AI is about equipping ourselves with tools to solve complex challenges, not replacing human thought or creativity.”  

The winners for each age category were:

Ages 16-24

Jasmine Esparza – 1st place $1500

Chelsea Buitron – 2nd place $1000

Mirna Luna – 3rd place $600

Ashly Florencio – 4th place $250

Ages 25-49

Brendalis Luciano – 1st place $1500

Jennifer Butler – 2nd place $1000

Kate Wickersham – 3rd place $600

Laura Elliot – 4th place $250

Ages 50+

Jennifer Hahn – 1st place $1500

Barbara Miller – 2nd place $1000

Jim Mercante – 3rd place $600

David Valee – 4th place $250

Team Winners

Kennett High School Walk In Knowledge Program (Loretta Perna) – 1st place $5000

LCH (Kate Wickersham) – 2nd place $3000

Kennett Library Adult Literacy Program (Filomena Elliot) – 3rd place $2000

RSVP (Michele Moll) – 4th place $1000

Honorable Mention - $100 each

Joan Holliday

Mary Hewes

Daphne Also

Ashley Torrey

Kevin Ayllon Gayton

Mercedes Diaz

Maria Duran

Karen Strauss

Mia Wickersham

Vicotria Mata Lopez

While the competition has concluded for this year, the courses are still accessible in both English and Spanish, available to all who want to learn about AI and expand one’s digital skillset. Please visit www.unitedwayscc.org.