Wisconsin Poised to Lead AI Revolution, New Report Reveals

A groundbreaking report titled "The State of Artificial Intelligence in Wisconsin," released by TechEd Media Group, reveals that Wisconsin is uniquely positioned to become a national leader in AI innovation, particularly in manufacturing. The report, which surveyed 53 organizations across various industries, comes in the wake of Microsoft's recent $3.3 billion investment in the state's AI infrastructure.

Key findings include:

• 76% of respondents believe the Midwest is best positioned to lead the country in AI innovation in manufacturing.
• 100% of surveyed organizations agree that AI will impact their industry within the next 5 years.
• 100% of educational institutions surveyed believe AI will have a significant or transformative impact on their sector, underscoring the urgent need for curriculum adaptation.

"Wisconsin has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to become a leader in AI advancement, innovation, and technology," said Matt Kirchner, co-author of the report. "Our state's spirit of innovation, strong manufacturing base, and recent investments in AI infrastructure position us well for this transformation."

The report also features insights from leaders of the state's most AI-forward organizations across education and industry.

One primary takeaway is that AI adoption will not lead to job losses but rather create new opportunities for Wisconsin's workforce. Dr. Rich Barnhouse, President of Waukesha County Technical College, remarked, "Artificial intelligence is going to change everything. It's already starting. Those who harness it early, teach it early, not just curricularly in the classroom, but also work with businesses to help them upskill, are really going to push their communities and local businesses forward."

To capitalize on this opportunity, the report lists a series of recommendations, including:

1. Establishing public-private partnerships to create AI training programs.
2. Developing AI-focused curricula at all educational levels.
3. Incentivizing AI adoption in small and medium-sized businesses.
4. Creating a statewide marketing campaign to highlight the efforts taking place around Wisconsin and truly establish the state as an epicenter of AI excellence.

The report highlights several of these ongoing AI initiatives in Wisconsin, including:

• Waukesha County Technical College's launch of AI certificate programs and an associate's degree, believed to be the first institution of its kind in the country to do so.
• Milwaukee School of Engineering's distinction as the first U.S. institution to offer an undergraduate program focused on AI.
• Public policy efforts to lead on AI, including the formation of Governor Tony Evers' Task Force on Workforce and Artificial Intelligence and taskforces established by the state senate and legislature.

Mary Snapp, Vice President of Strategy at Microsoft, emphasized Wisconsin's potential, stating, "I cannot think of a region that is more focused on innovation and manufacturing."

The full report provides detailed insights into AI adoption trends, challenges, and recommendations for employers, educators, and policymakers as Wisconsin accelerates its AI journey. It underscores the need for a collaborative approach to workforce development, ensuring that Wisconsin's talent pipeline is prepared for the AI-driven future.

As Wisconsin stands on the brink of an AI revolution, this report serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to engage in shaping the state's technological future and securing its position as a national leader in AI innovation.

Media Contact:
For more information or to arrange interviews regarding the report, please contact:
Melissa Martin
TechEd Media Group
mmartin@techedpodcast.com