NCW Tech Alliance launches free AI Skills competition with $2,500 in prizes

WENATCHEE — NCW Tech Alliance has opened registration for the 2025 AI Skill-a-Thon, a free six-week competition designed to help North Central Washington residents develop artificial intelligence and digital skills. The event runs through Sept. 30, with $2,500 in cash prizes awarded to top participants. Winners will be announced Oct. 8 at the Tech Trailblazers event at Big Bend Community College.

Sponsored by Microsoft, the Skill-a-Thon is part of the Community Skills Initiative, which offers free online training in AI, IT, cybersecurity, data analytics, project management and more. Courses, available in English and Spanish, can be completed on laptops, tablets or mobile devices at each participant’s pace.

“AI is reshaping careers in real time, and every certificate you earn helps you stay ahead of that curve,” said David Mabee, marketing director for NCW Tech Alliance. “With courses you can take anytime, anywhere, this competition is a powerful way to build your resume and future-proof your skills.”

The competition is open to job seekers, career changers, students, working professionals, community organizations and Spanish-speaking residents who are at least 16 years old with a mailing address in Adams, Chelan, Douglas, Grant, Ferry or Okanogan counties. Participants may compete individually or in teams.

Points are awarded for each course completed, with triple points for AI courses and bonus points for completing full learning pathways. Wildcard entries are available for completing AI or cybersecurity pathways. Prizes include $1,000 for the top-scoring team, $500 for the top individual, and two $500 wildcard awards.

To participate, individuals must register at communityskilling.org, complete courses from the provided list, and submit certificates — which must include the course name, completion date and certificate ID — by Sept. 30. A step-by-step video is available on the website.