Washington State University, Carson College of Business and Ziplines Education Launch Career-Focused Certificate Programs to Power Washington’s Digital Workforce

PULLMAN, Wash. – July 14, 2026 – As AI, automation, and digital transformation reshape industries across the Pacific Northwest, Washington State University’s Carson College of Business is taking bold steps to equip the region’s workforce with the skills employers need right now.

In collaboration with Ziplines Education, a national career accelerator and trusted partner to more than 30 universities, Washington State University is launching its most comprehensive suite of professional certificate programs to date—seven online, university-branded certificates built for working professionals, adult learners, and career changers across the state.

Launching this spring, the new programs span two tracks. The first builds core professional skills: Project Management, Digital Marketing, and Business Analytics. The second builds applied AI capability at every level—from AI Essentials as a practical foundation, to AI Automation for workflow design, to role-specific programs in AI for Marketing and AI for HR Professionals. Together, the suite meets professionals wherever they are in their career and their AI journey.

“Washington’s economy runs on innovation—from technology and agriculture to healthcare and advanced manufacturing,” said James Montalto, Lifelong Learning Manager at Washington State University. “These programs give professionals across our state the tools, credentials, and confidence to stay competitive in a workforce that’s evolving faster than ever. Partnering with Ziplines Education allows us to deliver career-focused programs at the speed and scale our learners and employers need.”

The economic need is clear. According to Lightcast labor market data for Washington, demand for automation skills is projected to grow 30%, analytics skills by 27%, project management by 20%, and digital marketing by 17%. Across sectors—from technology and aerospace to healthcare and professional services—Washington employers are seeking professionals who can lead teams, interpret data, and apply AI tools responsibly and effectively.

“Washington State University has a deep commitment to serving its state—and that’s exactly the kind of institution we want to build alongside,” said Sara Leoni, CEO of Ziplines Education. “What excites us about this partnership is the scope. We’re not offering a single course or a narrow AI pilot. We’re launching a full spectrum of programs that meets professionals wherever they are—and gives them the confidence to use these tools in the work they’re already doing.”

Together, the two institutions are building a new model for professional development in the Pacific Northwest: flexible, career-relevant, and deeply aligned with industry needs. Learners will benefit from monthly cohort launches, hands-on assignments, expert-led instruction, and personalized support designed to turn ambition into real career momentum.

Ziplines Education partners with leading universities to develop flexible, cohort-based online certificate programs that blend live instruction, interactive learning, and real-world application. Each program is 5–10 weeks long and delivered 100% online. Participants gain hands-on experience with real tools and workflows, career support from dedicated learner success advocates, and the flexibility to learn without stepping away from the workforce.

WSU Carson College of Business program offerings include:

Project Management: Practical project leadership skills with industry-standard tools and methodologies, including Jira certification and PMI credit.

Business Analytics: Hands-on training in Tableau, SQL, and data visualization to drive smarter business decisions.

Digital Marketing: Industry certifications in HubSpot, Google Ads, and Google Analytics.

AI Essentials: A practical AI foundation using ChatGPT for business applications, including content creation, data analysis, and workflow automation.

AI Automation: AI-driven workflow design using no-code tools like Make.com and n8n to streamline processes and unlock productivity.

AI for Marketing: Applied AI across the marketing function—from customer journey mapping and competitive analysis to creative design and data storytelling.

AI for HR Professionals: Practical AI integration for core HR functions—talent acquisition, employee engagement, workforce planning, and operational efficiency.

Enrollment is now open, with cohorts beginning spring 2026. To learn more and register, visit WSU Carson College of Business program page or ziplines.com.

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About Washington State University

Washington State University, a Carnegie R1 research institution founded in 1890, serves more than 30,000 students across six campuses statewide and through Global Campus online programs. The Carson College of Business is AACSB-accredited and committed to preparing students and professionals for careers that drive economic vitality in Washington and beyond. Learn more at wsu.edu.‍

‍About Ziplines Education
Ziplines Education partners with 30+ public and regional universities to design, launch, and grow employer-aligned certificates that build skills, confidence, and career mobility. Practitioner-led and cohort-based, our model helps institutions adapt at the speed of work—so learners and regions thrive as the economy evolves, driven by technology and accelerated by AI. Learn more at ziplines.com.

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Media Contacts

Washington State University
James Montalto
630-797-6182
james.montalto@wsu.edu

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Ziplines Education
Alyssa Miller
alyssa@ammediaworks.com
973-615-1292

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