Ready to launch your tech career? The Google Career Launchpad Program, in partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), is excited to offer a 9-week training program starting September 22, 2025! We're providing this no-cost program to help you gain in-demand skills in cloud computing and prepare you for the Generative AI Leader (GAIL) certification.
What is the program?
Google Career Launchpad is a free training program designed to equip you with foundational skills for entry-level jobs in cloud computing. TMCF runs the program using official Google Cloud learning content, with a goal of achieving the industry-recognized Google Cloud Generative AI Leader (GAIL) certification.
How does it work?
Over nine weeks, you’ll dive into an instructor-led training (ILT) and on-demand learning journey. This includes six core modules and hands-on labs. You’ll also get 1:1 mentorship, career development sessions, and a GAIL certification voucher upon completion.
Who is it for?
This program is open to all university students within the TMCF network. All majors are accepted. Any technical and non-technical student seeking to validate their understanding of the role that gen AI has in shaping business strategies, specifically within the Google Cloud ecosystem. There is no requisite knowledge requirement of cloud computing or AI knowledge. You do not need a technical background for GAIL.
Prepare for the career you want
The Google Career Launchpad program, delivered in partnership with TMCF, builds expertise in cloud infrastructure and prepares you for any professional role involved in shaping business strategies with generative AI. The program includes:
Program kickoff: A 3-hour "Introduction to Cloud Overview" virtual session
Instructor-led training (ILT): Nine weekly 1-hour virtual sessions complementing your Skills Boost courses
Office hours: Six weekly 30-minute virtual office hours with expert instructors
Hands-on labs: Practical exercises to solidify your learning
1:1 mentorship: Bi-weekly sessions with Google and Deloitte employees
Career development sessions: Two sessions run by TMCF
Online support: A Google Chat Space for community and support
Upon successful completion, you'll receive a free voucher for the Generative AI Leader (GAIL) certification exam, 6-month access to Google Cloud Skills Boost, Google swag, and an invitation to the Closing Event.
How do I apply?
Learn more about the course information and requirements on this page, then apply here. Applications close September 20, 2025, for the Fall ‘25 session. Seats are limited for this free program, so secure your spot today!
Program at a glance
Duration:
9 weeks
Fall ’25 cohort:
September 22 - November 22, 2025
Cost:
Absolutely free!
What’s covered:
On-demand and instructor-led training, resources, and a certification exam voucher
Curriculum:
Google Cloud-designed content for in-demand skills
Certification:
Generative AI Leader Certification (GAIL)
Support:
Mentors and community, including expert guides, peer study, and online support
Eligibility:
This program is open to all university students within the TMCF network.
Outcome:
The Google Career Launchpad program, delivered in partnership with TMCF, builds expertise in cloud infrastructure and prepares you for any professional role involved in shaping business strategies with generative AI.
2025 program timeline
Fall cohort: Virtual term
01
Applications open
September 1, 2025
02
Priority Acceptance
September 15, 2025
03
Application Closes
September 20, 2025
04
Welcome Session (Mandatory)
September 22, 2025
05
ILT and Office Hours
Virtual, September 22 - November 22, 2025
06
Closing Event
November 22, 2025
Frequently asked questions
This program is open to all university students within the TMCF network. All majors are accepted.
The Google Career Launchpad program is completely free! You'll receive access to courses, hands-on labs, and group study sessions at no cost. You will also receive a free voucher to cover the Generative AI Leader Certification (GAIL) certification exam fee upon completion.
This program provides comprehensive training and hands-on experience to prepare you for the Google Cloud Generative AI Leader Certification (GAIL) certification exam. Completing the program itself does not grant certification, but participants who complete the entire learning program are eligible for a free exam voucher to cover the GAIL certification exam fee.
You'll build job-ready skills in cloud infrastructure and generative AI through structured courses, hands-on labs, and real-world projects. You'll also gain access to group study sessions, 1:1 mentorship, and career development sessions to reinforce learning and connect with peers. Those who complete the program will be well-prepared for the Google Cloud GAIL certification exam.
Glad you asked! To learn more about the GAIL certification, please review this Student Prep Guide.
Watch this on-demand webinar to learn more about certification prep.
No prior cloud experience is strictly required.
The program includes scheduled instructor-led sessions and office hours. While some content is on-demand, you'll need to commit to the live sessions and dedicate time weekly to complete coursework.
A laptop with internet access is the only technology required.
For more information or additional questions, please contact talent@tmcf.org.