FICO is expanding its commitment to fostering the next generation of data scientists, announcing the continuation of its FICO® Educational Analytics Challenge into the Spring 2026 semester and welcoming Dillard University as a new partner. The program, now in its third year, will engage students at eight Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)—including Bowie State, Drake State, and Morehouse—in hands-on experience building responsible AI models. Participants will tackle real-world business problems, specifically focusing on the development and training of AI language models used in the financial sector. “The Analytics Challenge program provides students the opportunity to learn how industry data scientists use AI—how they work with data, create models, and ultimately realize the value of AI,” said Dr. Scott Zoldi, FICO’s Chief Analytics Officer, highlighting the program’s aim to equip students with crucial skills for future careers.
FICO® Educational Analytics Challenge Expands to Eight HBCUs
Dillard University joins Bowie State University, Delaware State University, Morehouse College, Alabama A&M University, Drake State Community & Technical College, North Carolina Central University, and Fayetteville State University in the program’s third year, demonstrating a sustained commitment to fostering diverse talent in data science. This expansion builds upon a successful Fall term and reinforces FICO’s dedication to cultivating the next generation of AI specialists nationwide. Scott Zoldi, FICO’s Chief Analytics Officer. Dr.
Mingxian Jin, a professor at Fayetteville State University, notes that “We have witnessed the Analytics Challenge serving as a primary influence for many of our students to continue their education by applying for master programs.” Beyond academic rigor, FICO provides financial support to participating universities alongside career resources, including internship opportunities and resume guidance, aiming to equip students with skills for responsible and ethical AI implementation.
AI Language Model Training Focus for Spring 2026 Semester
FICO’s Educational Analytics Challenge will expand in Spring 2026, bringing hands-on AI model building experience to a broader cohort of students across the United States. The semester-long program specifically focuses on how these models and chatbots are created, exposing students to FICO’s specialized language model approach. Scott Zoldi. Furthermore, Dr.
FICO Program Supports Student Career Development in Data Science
The program has now collaborated with a total of eight Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) since its inception, actively bolstering the pipeline of data science talent across the United States. FICO provides not only academic enhancement but also direct financial support to each university’s analytics education, alongside crucial career resources. Scott Zoldi, FICO’s Chief Analytics Officer, who leads the initiative with a dedicated team of industry experts. Dr.
The Analytics Challenge program provides students the opportunity to learn how industry data scientists use AI-how they work with data, create models, and ultimately realize the value of AI.
