Erich Smith

Background

About Erich Smith

I’ve spent my career at the intersection of technology, learning, and upward mobility, driven by one belief: when people understand how to use emerging tools, they gain the power to change their own futures.That belief led me from adult education to workforce development (more than a decade ago) and today, it fuels my work building AI-ready pathways that open doors for young adults and communities often left out of the digital revolution.As co-facilitator of the Dell-sponsored Hopeworks AI Innovation Lab, I develop and lead the AI Navigator Program and AI Builder Waves (Modules 1–10)—a digital training that prepares Hopeworks participants to thrive as AI-augmented professionals and future AI builders. I’ve designed 50+ instructional modules across AI literacy, digital skills, SQL, RCM, and Google Workspace and implemented scalable learning systems using Rise360, Litmos, Leapsome, Coursera, and the Build Something Different (BSD) Platform.My work extends beyond the classroom. I’ve led multi-site community AI workshops with local nonprofits, helping residents build confidence with AI and digital tools. I also contribute to statewide workforce and education policy conversations, using on-the-ground insights to inform Future of Work strategies.I serve as Secretary of the Technology Learning Collaborative Board and as an Education Policy Fellow, focusing on education policy, digital literacy, talent pipelines, and community education-centered innovation.I’m passionate about supporting and designing learning experiences that transform potential into opportunity—and in supporting individuals in adopting AI in ways that strengthen, rather than replace, human capability.