AI in May

Building your AI capability: learning opportunities for engineers

If you’re just beginning to explore what AI has to offer, a common question is: "Where should I start?"

Start with Engineering New Zealand

The Engineering and AI programme provides practical resources designed specifically for engineers, including introductory courses, webinars, case studies and governance guidance. These resources are designed to help you adopt AI safely, responsibly and effectively in your day-to-day work.

If you want to learn more, our AI learning opportunities page is a great place to start.

Free resources to build your confidence

If you're new to AI, there’s several free learning options available.

• AI for Good NZ Learning Hub offers self-paced learning pathways covering AI literacy, workplace applications and responsible AI use.
• NewZealand.AI Academy provides free online courses focused on AI literacy, responsible AI and practical workplace applications. Its flexible, self-paced format makes it a useful option for engineers looking to build confidence and explore how AI can support their day-to-day work.
• AI Forum New Zealand provides a wealth of New Zealand-focused resources through its AEC WG Knowledge Hub, and AI e-Learning modules. The Forum also hosts regular webinars on AI governance, productivity and implementation, including sessions focused on the Architecture, Engineering and Construction sector.

Upcoming Engineering New Zealand AI webinars 

• 15 June Navigating the Hype: Practical AI, RAG, and Computer Vision as Avenues for Engineering Safety
• 17 June Using AI to Create and Populate Templates
• 15 July From Quick Wins to Bigger Projects: AI Inside a NZ Surveying and Engineering Firm

Workshops and short courses

If you’re wanting a more guided introduction, several organisations offer workshops and short courses focused on practical application.

• Engineering New Zealand's Exploring the power of generative AI workshop provides hands-on experience using AI tools across text, image and video applications.
• The University of Canterbury's Generative AI Bootcamp and Get Better at Generative AI offer a practical introduction to generative AI for professionals wanting structured guidance on using AI effectively in the workplace.
• ArchitectureAU’s Building the future: AI in design and construction offers a design and construction-focused introduction to how AI is being applied across the built environment, from design workflows to project delivery.

AcademyEX's AI also offers broader professional upskilling for people wanting to build practical AI capability for work

Looking for more structured learning?

For engineers seeking a deeper learning experience, the University of Auckland's Applied AI for Engineers programme is specifically designed for practising engineers. Delivered online over 15 weeks, it focuses on applying AI in engineering workflows, decision-making and problem solving while addressing governance and responsible use.

If you’re interested in developing specialist expertise, Victoria University of Wellington, University of Canterbury and the University of Waikato offer advanced qualifications in artificial intelligence, machine learning and related disciplines

Keep learning and building capacity

Not every learning journey starts with a course. Webinar recordings, case studies and short online tutorials can be a practical way to build confidence and see how others are applying AI in their work.

There is no single pathway into AI, but the key is to start somewhere. Build your understanding, experiment safely, learn from others and continue developing your capability as the technology evolves.