Redefining Learning in the Age of Automation
NEW YORK, NY (October 2025) — While the headlines wonder if AI will replace skills like coding, Urban Arts knows what makes students irreplaceable: creativity and critical thinking. The national nonprofit—renowned for teaching video game design as a pathway to college and career—hosted their AI Accelerator from September 20–21, 2025, bringing together technologists, educators, entrepreneurs and Urban Arts alumni to explore how the next generation can use AI as a creative catalyst and not a crutch.
“Technology keeps evolving, but human creativity is what endures,” says Dr. Amy Patterson, Chief Program Officer at Urban Arts. “Our students code their own systems, craft their own artwork, and write their own stories. That’s how they learn to imagine new possibilities—and then build them.”
This convening comes as educators nationwide grapple with AI’s rapid transformation of industries from healthcare to finance. “AI is expanding the need for computer science, not ending it,” says Philip Courtney, CEO of Urban Arts. “The future belongs to young people who can merge technical knowledge with storytelling, design thinking, and critical analysis.”
The accelerator explored how students can use AI to innovate responsibly and drive future economies with insights from Jeff Roth, Director of Experiential Analytics; Jeff Hine, Emerging Tech Strategist; Katrina Tavanlar, Senior Associate; Nelson Chu, Fintech Founder; and Cameron Fadjo, Technical Architect.
As AI continues reshaping the workforce, Urban Arts remains committed to ensuring the next generation defines the future.
About Urban Arts
Urban Arts teaches digital game design as a pathway to college and career.
100% college acceptance for our seniors.
$46M in scholarships since 2017.
Our programs prepare students for college and careers in STEAM fields—combining tech and creativity to unlock the power of possibility through the power of play.
Game changers start here.
Media Contact:
Jen Walter
Director of Marketing and Communications
jen@urbanarts.org
