Voorhees CERPI Expands IBM Partnership Strengthen Workforce Readiness
DENMARK, S.C. — The Center of Excellence for Research and Program Innovation (CERPI) at Voorhees University is expanding its nationally recognized partnership with IBM to provide students and faculty with advanced training, industry-aligned credentials, and paid micro-internship opportunities. Through the IBM SkillsBuild platform, CERPI will support digital credentialing that enhances workforce exposure and creates clear pathways to high-demand technology careers.
A central feature of CERPI comprehensive partnership with IBM is a $2 million IBM initiative focused on developing innovative curricula and workforce programs in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum computing, blockchain, data science, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and other emerging technology fields.
Dr. Zhabiz Golkar, founder and executive director of CERPI, serves as one of only four HBCU representatives on the distinguished IBM HBCU Faculty Council. Under her leadership, Voorhees University has earned recognition from the IBM Skills Academy for achieving one of the highest numbers of student completions in IBM academic courses and industry badge programs.
“IBM’s ongoing investment helps ensure that our students develop the technical skills and professional experiences required to excel in today’s digital economy,” said Dr. Golkar. “Our new partnership demonstrates CERPI’s commitment to integrating workforce readiness into academic pathways and creating real career opportunities for our students.”
CERPI will continue expanding its mission by delivering faculty training and student internships that strengthen instructional quality and improve employment outcomes. Students who have earned IBM digital badges have already leveraged their credentials to secure competitive positions within IBM, reinforcing the program’s direct connection to employment.
Looking ahead, Voorhees University will broaden its academic offerings with new certificates in AI, cybersecurity, data science, and automation — all built around stackable micro-credentials validated by industry leaders.
