The Locust Group Supports AI-Driven Strategies Across California Community Colleges
Statewide initiative combines research, artificial intelligence, and professional development to strengthen equitable hiring and workforce practices
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
[Novemeber 13, 2024]
THE LOCUST GROUP SUPPORTS AI-DRIVEN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY STRATEGIES ACROSS CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY COLLEGES
Statewide initiative combines research, artificial intelligence, and professional development to strengthen equitable hiring and workforce practices
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Locust Group is supporting the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office in advancing the responsible use of artificial intelligence, research, and data-informed strategies within Equal Employment Opportunity initiatives across the California Community Colleges system.
The engagement brings together research, educational design, professional development, and practical AI applications to help colleges examine recruitment, hiring, retention, and workforce equity.
As part of the initiative, The Locust Group developed two educational modules:
• Advancing Equity & EEO Through AI: AI-Driven Strategies for Equitable Hiring
• Advancing Equity & EEO Through AI: Data-Driven Recruitment and Retention Strategies
The modules were designed for human resources professionals, EEO officers, faculty members, classified professionals, administrators, and other college employees involved in institutional hiring and workforce development.
“Artificial intelligence can help institutions analyze information, identify patterns, and strengthen decision-making, but it must be applied thoughtfully,” said Dr. Jonathan Locust Jr., principal of The Locust Group. “Our focus is on helping professionals use AI as an assistive resource while preserving human judgment, institutional responsibility, and the protections required for equitable employment practices.”
The Locust Group’s work includes conducting research, translating complex information into accessible learning materials, developing practical tools, facilitating statewide professional development, and presenting strategies that college professionals can apply within their local environments.
The initiative also addresses the distinction between underrepresentation and adverse impact, the appropriate interpretation of workforce data, and the importance of reviewing AI-supported findings within the broader organizational and legal context.
“This work is about moving from general conversations about AI to practical and responsible applications,” Locust said. “The goal is to help institutions ask better questions, interpret information more effectively, and make decisions that support fair and inclusive employment practices.”
The engagement demonstrates The Locust Group’s capabilities in government consulting, artificial intelligence strategy, research and evaluation, instructional design, executive facilitation, and statewide professional development.
ABOUT THE LOCUST GROUP
The Locust Group is a research, strategy, and organizational development consulting firm that helps government agencies, educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations make better decisions through research, stakeholder engagement, data analysis, and strategic planning. Led by Dr. Jonathan Locust Jr., the firm specializes in translating complex information and diverse perspectives into practical strategies that produce measurable and sustainable outcomes.
MEDIA CONTACT
Dr. Jonathan Locust Jr.
Principal, The Locust Group
216-370-1967