TLDR: IBM and Lewis Hamilton’s Mission 44 foundation have launched a multi-year collaboration utilizing IBM SkillsBuild to provide STEM and AI education, aiming to empower underrepresented young talent globally and address the growing demand for AI literacy.
In a significant move to bridge the global AI skills gap and foster talent from underrepresented communities, IBM and Mission 44, the global charitable foundation of seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, announced a new multi-year collaboration. The partnership, unveiled in Austin ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, aims to promote STEM career pathways, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
Central to this initiative is IBM’s acclaimed free education program, IBM SkillsBuild, which will be leveraged to create impactful learning experiences for students. The collaboration underscores the increasing societal demand for AI literacy and aligns with IBM’s broader commitment to equip 30 million people with new skills by 2030.
Recent research from the AI Workforce Consortium highlights that AI-specific roles are now key drivers of growth across G7 countries, indicating that AI has evolved into a foundational capability rather than a niche specialization. The IBM SkillsBuild program, through its learning platform, supports faculty, adult learners, high school, and university students in developing valuable new technology and AI skills, thereby enhancing access to career opportunities.
Lewis Hamilton, Founder of Mission 44, emphasized the foundation’s mission: “Talent is everywhere, but not everyone is afforded the opportunity for career growth. That’s why Mission 44 is teaming up with IBM SkillsBuild to unlock new learning pathways in technology for young people everywhere.” He added, “We’re on a mission to ensure young people get the chance to thrive, so that everyone can fulfill their potential.”
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The partnership will also feature multiple activations hosted by Mission 44 in collaboration with the IBM SkillsBuild team at F1 race events each year. These events will deliver immersive, hands-on learning opportunities, helping students develop skills crucial for future-oriented jobs, including those within F1’s international geographies. This strategic alliance is poised to make a substantial impact on diversifying the tech workforce and preparing a new generation for the demands of an AI-driven future.
