Google launches ‘Google Skills’, a massive new platform for learning AI and more

For years, Google has offered a wide array of courses, certifications, and learning resources scattered across its various divisions like Google Cloud, Grow with Google, and Google for Education. Today, they are bringing all of that—and much more—under one roof with the launch of Google Skills: a massive new learning platform designed to be the essential destination for building expertise in AI and other critical technical capabilities.

Driven by the soaring demand for AI skills, Google Skills integrates nearly 3,000 courses, hands-on labs, and professional credentials from across Google Cloud, Google DeepMind, Grow with Google, and Google for Education. The goal is to provide a single, comprehensive platform for everyone—from students just starting out to experienced developers and organizational leaders—to learn and prove their skills in the AI era.

What you can do with Google Skills

• Learn from Google Experts: Access content covering all levels, from introductory courses like “Google AI Essentials” (Grow with Google) to advanced learning paths and certifications from Google Cloud, or deep dives into LLMs with Google DeepMind’s “AI Research Foundations.” There are even 10-minute “AI Boost Bites” for quick learning.
• Get Hands-On Experience: Build real-world skills through interactive labs, including AI-driven labs that integrate Gemini Code Assist. Prove your knowledge with credentials like skill badges, entry-level certificates, and full certifications.
• Stay Motivated with Gamification: Google Skills incorporates elements like streaks to track progress and shareable achievements to make learning more engaging.
• Personalized Team Learning: For Google Cloud customers, the platform offers tools to assign specific learning paths to teams, track progress with advanced reporting, and foster engagement with company leaderboards.

Connecting skills to careers

Google Skills isn’t just about learning; it’s also about connecting trained talent with employers. Google is expanding its existing hiring consortium (now over 150 employers) and launching a new skills-based hiring initiative. Companies like Jack Henry are participating to fast-track learners who complete Google Cloud Certificates through their hiring process, creating direct pathways to jobs.

Accessible learning, often at no cost

A key focus of Google Skills is accessibility. The platform offers extensive no-cost options for learners at every level, including hundreds of courses for those new to AI. Additionally:

• The entire on-demand library is available at no cost to Google Cloud customers.
• Developers get 35 free credits each month for hands-on labs.
• Higher education institutions, government programs, and nonprofits can access no-cost training through the Career Launchpad program.

Google Skills is positioned to be the go-to platform for navigating the AI-driven future and closing the ever-growing skills gap. With its comprehensive content, hands-on tools, and focus on accessibility, it’s a powerful new resource for learners and organizations worldwide.