Microsoft's $3.3B Investment in Wisconsin for Cloud, AI Infrastructures

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Microsoft's multi-billion dollar investment in Wisconsin's AI industry

Microsoft recently announced a massive investment plan aiming to transform Southeast Wisconsin into a hub for AI-driven economic activity, innovation, and job creation. The package incorporates a $3.3 billion investment in cloud computing and AI infrastructure, the initiation of the first US-based AI co-innovation lab focused on manufacturing, and a training initiative to upskill over 100,000 residents in AI.

Microsoft President Brad Smith, joined by President Joe Biden, unveiled the strategy at Gateway Technical College. Smith emphasized harnessing AI to propel the next generation of manufacturing and create a robust foundation for medium, small, and startup companies.

The four-part investment strategy kickstarts with a $3.3 billion investment by 2026 to expand national cloud and AI infrastructure. A state-of-the-art data center will be developed in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, promising 2,300 union construction jobs by 2025 and long-term employment opportunities. The infrastructure will aid companies nationwide in using advanced AI and cloud services to grow and modernize.

A new 250-megawatt solar project in Wisconsin, in partnership with National Grid, is also part of Microsoft's plan. By 2027, Microsoft will generate over 4,000 megawatts of power, enough for more than 3 million homes. Moreover, the new data center will utilize recycled water via a closed-loop cooling system, thus promoting sustainability.

Microsoft plans to collaborate with Gateway Technical College to establish a Data Center Academy. The Academy aims to train and certify over 1,000 students in five years to work in the new data center and other IT sector jobs.

"This is a watershed moment for Wisconsin," commented Governor Tony Evers, applauding Microsoft for recognizing Wisconsin's robust workforce, infrastructure, and economy.

In the second phase, Microsoft will construct a manufacturing-focused AI Co-Innovation Lab at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The lab will connect local companies with Microsoft's AI experts to design and prototype AI and cloud solutions, aiming to serve 270 Wisconsin companies by 2030.

Furthermore, Microsoft will partner with United Way Wisconsin and others to train over 100,000 residents in generative AI by 2030. The collaboration will also facilitate the training of additional AI software developers and provide immersive boot camps for local leaders to learn the effective adoption of generative AI.

Finally, Microsoft plans to invest in local education and youth employment programs. Partnerships with the Racine Unified School District and Racine County will expand STEM education for girls and support youth employment programs. Notably, Microsoft will also continue distributing Equity Through Technology and STEAM Grant Funds to support under-resourced communities.

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