Python for Non-Developers: Practical Programming & AI Integration Workshop

8-Week Professional Development Program

Course Level: Foundational
Duration: 8 Weeks (Weekly 2 Hour Sessions)
Delivery: Virtual – Live via Microsoft Teams
CPEs: 16 (up to based on attendance)
Start Date: 01/10/26 (Saturdays)
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET

Course Overview

ISSA-NOVA is pleased to introduce a hands-on professional development program designed specifically for learners with little to no programming background who want to use Python to improve workplace efficiency, automate tasks, and apply AI to real-world problems.

This 8-week instructor-led program provides a practical, business-focused introduction to Python. Participants will learn how to read, write, and execute Python scripts; work with files and real-world datasets; visualize information; and build simple tools that enhance productivity. Unlike traditional introductory programming courses, this program emphasizes immediate applicability to workplace scenarios across non-developer roles, including analysts, SMEs, managers, technical staff, and cybersecurity professionals.

A key component of the program is learning how to incorporate AI—specifically modern AI assistants and APIs—into everyday workflows. Participants will see how Python and AI can work together to automate analysis, generate insights, and streamline decision-making.

Taught by Brandy Derogene, an experienced technical instructor known for making complex topics accessible and actionable, this course blends instruction, examples, hands-on exercises, and guided troubleshooting to ensure participants gain confidence using Python in real environments.

Course Format

A blended, interactive learning experience featuring:

  • Instructor-led demonstrations of Python concepts and tools
  • Hands-on scripting exercises to reinforce real-world skills
  • AI-assisted learning, including using Claude to explain, debug, and optimize code
  • Group discussions and collaborative problem-solving
  • Weekly practical assignments tied directly to workplace relevance

Course Materials Include:

  • Expert live instruction
  • Step-by-step demonstrations
  • Hands-on lab activities
  • Sample scripts and templates
  • Supplemental online resources
  • Weekly topic summaries and example code snippets

A detailed weekly schedule will be provided in advance of the program start date.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the program, participants will be able to:

  • Understand Python’s role in modern business and technology environments
  • Write, execute, and troubleshoot basic Python programs
  • Use Python variables, data types, logic, and loops to build functional scripts
  • Organize code using functions and modules
  • Process and analyze structured data using lists, dictionaries, and files
  • Read and write data from CSV and Excel sources
  • Apply Python for automation of repetitive tasks
  • Use popular libraries such as pandas for data analysis
  • Integrate AI capabilities—such as the Claude API—to generate insights and enhance automation
  • Use Git and GitHub for version control, collaboration, and project management
  • Build simple AI-powered Python tools aligned to real business workflows

High-Level Course Outline

Week Date DomainArea covered
1Saturday 01/10/26
10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET		Module 0 – Course Introduction & SetupInstalling Python, VS Code, and required libraries; writing your first script; using AI as a coding partner.
2Saturday 01/17/26
10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET		Module 1 – Python FundamentalsVariables, data types, expressions, input/output, and creating small functional scripts.
3Saturday 01/24/26
10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET		Module 2 – Control Flow & Decision LogicConditionals, loops, operators, debugging methods, and applying logic to workplace problems.
4Saturday 01/31/26
10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET		Module 3 – Functions & Code OrganizationReusable functions, parameters, return values, modular code structure, and documentation best practices.
5Saturday 01/07/26
10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET		Module 4 – Working with Real-World DataLists, dictionaries, tuples, list comprehensions, and efficient data handling techniques.
6Saturday 01/14/26
10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET		Module 5 – Files, External Data & Error HandlingReading/writing files, working with CSV datasets, handling exceptions, and building basic data-processing tools.
7Saturday 01/21/26
10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET		Module 6 – Python Libraries & AI IntegrationUsing pandas, working with Excel files, calling external APIs, and integrating the Claude API for automated insights.
8Saturday 01/28/26
10:00 am to 12:00 pm ET		Module 7 – Git, GitHub & AI Project Management Version control basics, Git commands, GitHub workflow, secure API key usage, and maintaining AI-enabled projects.

Who Should Attend

This program is ideal for:

  • Business and cybersecurity professionals seeking to automate tasks
  • Analysts and SMEs working with data and reports
  • Technical staff seeking foundational programming skills
  • Managers wanting to understand and apply Python-enabled workflows
  • Anyone looking to use Python and AI to improve productivity and decision-making

Pricing

ISSA-NOVA Members: Free

Members of Other ISSA Chapters: $25 for each session

Non-Members: $50 for each session

Each participant earns approximately 16 CPEs and receives a certificate of completion based on attendance.

Registration

REGISTER: ISSA-NOVA Members
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfxTl5vSWKAbZgh3UKQRtIhGju0VZ8W1P8ViAGsC5hIedMuAw/viewform?usp=header

REGISTER: Members of Other ISSA Chapters
https://square.link/u/1oo2QvqU

REGISTER: Non-Members
https://square.link/u/CGe3z5Rq

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