TOLEDO, Ohio - The University of Toledo Department of Athletics has announced a new staff development initiative, believed to be the first of its kind in collegiate athletics, requiring artificial intelligence (AI) training for all coaches, staff, and administrators. This innovative step positions Toledo among national leaders in embracing AI's transformative potential in college athletics, underscoring the Rockets' commitment to forward-thinking leadership and operational excellence. 

Toledo Athletics coaches and staff have received education on various AI applications and platforms. In addition, UToledo has made Microsoft Copilot available to all university employees, reinforcing a campus-wide culture of innovation. 

The mandatory AI training aims to equip athletic personnel with the knowledge and tools necessary to harness AI technologies effectively and promote increased curiosity among all coaches and staff regarding the ways in which technology can enhance efficiency. The training and subsequent offerings will cover a range of applications and administrative efficiencies, ensuring that the Rockets remain at the forefront of technological advancements in collegiate sports. 

"Many believe AI represents the Fourth Industrial Revolution – and it's no time to be timid," said Bryan B. Blair, Vice President and Director of Athletics. "Toledo Athletics will be a national leader in AI adoption and integration. By integrating AI training across our department, we are not only enhancing our competitive edge but also fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability. This initiative reflects our commitment to innovation and positions us as leaders in the intersection of sports and technology. 

"I'd like to thank Senior Associate AD Josh Dittman and Vice President/Chief Technology Officer Bill McCreary for their continued leadership in this area of immense opportunity. Toledo Athletics has experienced record-breaking success over the last few years, but to reach our full potential, we must continue to scale and lean into the future. We expect AI to meaningfully boost efficiency, automate routine work, and increase our ability to enhance the student-athlete experience without adding additional staff." 

The AI training program is part of a broader strategic vision – Rise Together - to elevate the University of Toledo's athletic programs and is the latest example of Toledo Athletics embracing its role as a pioneer among its peers. The Rockets were the first department in the Mid-American Conference to partner with name, image, and likeness (NIL) collectives, empowering student-athletes to capitalize on new opportunities. Toledo also made history by expanding access for female student-athletes and enhancing University enrollment with the addition of women's rowing for the 2025-26 season, while the Lapp Creative Studio's cutting-edge Vu One technology—a first in collegiate athletics—revolutionized how teams connect with fans and recruits. The integration of AI training further solidifies Toledo's reputation as one of the nation's premier Group of Six athletic departments and a trailblazer in collegiate athletics. 

Over the last three years, the Rockets have achieved unprecedented success, including 13 Mid-American Conference championships, creative partnerships like the inaugural stadium concert "Glass City Live," along with record-breaking academic performances and all-time high fundraising success. Toledo has been recognized as the MAC's best overall department by winning the Cartwright Award for three consecutive years, the first institution to ever accomplish that feat. 
 
For more information about the University of Toledo's AI training initiative and other athletic programs, please visit utrockets.com. 

This release was drafted with the assistance of artificial intelligence.