Veterans and Service Members to Learn AI Solutions: New EmpowerU Course Launches

A free educational course, AI Fundamentals, designed for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families, is now open for enrollment. The program offers an opportunity to master one of the most promising fields in technology — artificial intelligence — and build a foundation for careers in Machine Learning, Data Science, or AI development.

This initiative is made possible by SoftServe as part of its EmpowerU program, launched in partnership with:

• The Ukrainian Veterans Fund (Ministry of Veterans Affairs)
• The VETERANKA Movement
• Lobby X, a recruitment platform
• Piraeus Bank

About the Program

The course provides a comprehensive understanding of AI principles and helps participants develop practical skills in applying algorithms and models. The curriculum covers:

• Generative models and prompt engineering
• Python fundamentals and Machine Learning approaches
• Neural networks and Computer Vision
• Natural Language Processing and AI ethics

Participants will also have the opportunity to build their own AI project as part of the program.

Format

The course runs for eight weeks under the mentorship of SoftServe Academy instructors. Classes are held online twice a week, and all lectures are available as recordings, allowing participants to learn at their own pace.

In Their Own Words

"We are seeing measurable results from EmpowerU: graduates of previous programs are not only completing their studies but launching careers in IT. This new AI course is a direct response to labor market demand, where AI skills are becoming essential. Together with our partners, our goal is to build an ecosystem of comprehensive support — from first steps in technology to career development. It is precisely this kind of synergy that opens new doors for veterans and their families," says Vadym Shumeiko, Head of CSR Projects at SoftServe Ukraine.

"This is not the first SoftServe educational initiative for veterans supported by the Ukrainian Veterans Fund, and we can see that this format delivers results. The real value of this program is that it combines a theoretical understanding of artificial intelligence with hands-on experience using tools that are already being applied across industries. This will help veterans feel more confident in the job market and continue moving forward," says Oleh Olyva, Executive Director of the Ukrainian Veterans Fund.

"For Piraeus Bank, supporting educational initiatives like this is not just about social responsibility — it is a long-term investment in Ukraine's human potential. We believe that access to modern knowledge and technologies, particularly in artificial intelligence, opens new opportunities for veterans and their families. This course helps people not only acquire a new profession but confidently build a future in a dynamic economy. We are proud to be a partner of this program for the second consecutive year, contributing to the reintegration of defenders into civilian life and supporting their professional growth," says Iryna Stakhurska, Member of the Board at Piraeus Bank.

"We advocate for women's right to be professionals in any field — whether in a combat role or in civilian life after service. Female veterans often lack a structured transition from military life to the technology sector. This course addresses that need by providing a clear foundation and practical skills. For the VETERANKA movement, this partnership is part of a systemic approach to reintegration, where we turn our women's unique experience into real career opportunities at leading IT companies," says Kateryna Pryimak, Head of the VETERANKA Movement and combat medic.

"Today, we see that veterans' demand for new professions far outpaces the market's capacity to provide quality support. This is especially true in fast-evolving fields that leverage new technologies, including artificial intelligence. At the same time, these are precisely the skills that open the door not just to employment but to a long-term, competitive career. At Lobby X, it is important to us not only to help veterans find jobs but to create the conditions for that choice to be informed and forward-looking. I am glad that through our strong and sustained partnership with SoftServe, we are building a bridge between education and real career opportunities," says Olha Bandrivska, Head of the Military Department at Lobby X.

How to Register

Graduates who successfully complete the course will receive certificates. Additionally, top-performing participants will have the opportunity to receive a grant from Piraeus Bank for further IT education.

• Application deadline: May 17
• Registration: [Link]
• Selection process: After registration, applicants must complete a basic IT knowledge test and create a Discord account.
• Course start date: May 25

The course is delivered as part of EmpowerU, a global educational program by SoftServe launched in 2023. The initiative aims to expand access to quality IT education for individuals seeking a career change or beginning their journey in technology.