TLDR: Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has announced a significant collaboration with NVIDIA, backed by a $10 million investment, to integrate artificial intelligence education and skill-building across the state’s schools and workforce. This initiative aims to prepare Oregonians for the evolving AI-driven economy and foster innovation.
Oregon is making a strategic move to position itself at the forefront of the artificial intelligence revolution. Governor Tina Kotek officially unveiled a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NVIDIA, a global leader in AI computing, coupled with a substantial $10 million investment dedicated to AI workforce development. The announcement, made during Governor Kotek’s remarks at the Northwest Breakfast Forum hosted by SEMI, underscores the state’s commitment to embracing the transformative power of AI.
The $10 million investment will be channeled from the Oregon CHIPS Act funding into the state’s Semiconductor Talent Sustaining Fund. This funding is specifically earmarked to support workforce development projects within both the semiconductor and AI sectors, with a particular emphasis on training individuals from underrepresented communities for high-paying careers in these burgeoning fields.
The core of the collaboration with NVIDIA is a comprehensive framework designed to foster entrepreneurship, significantly expand AI-focused education and skill-building opportunities, and equip Oregonians with the necessary expertise for the future job market. Furthermore, the partnership aims to assist state agencies in identifying and implementing responsible uses of AI to enhance government services.
A key component of this initiative is the launch of an ‘AI Ambassador Program.’ Through this program, NVIDIA will work closely with the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) and Oregon’s colleges and universities. Trained AI ambassadors will be placed across campuses throughout Oregon to provide hands-on training and mentorship to students, ensuring practical skill acquisition and real-world application of AI concepts.
Governor Kotek emphasized the urgency and importance of this collaboration, stating, “AI is transforming the way we live and work, and Oregon should not be left behind. This collaboration with NVIDIA helps us meet the moment. Oregon will not only prepare our workers, businesses, and public service professionals for a prosperous future, we will lead the way.”
Louis Stewart, Head of Strategic Initiatives at NVIDIA, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the broader impact of AI. “AI has ushered in a new industrial revolution, and governments, educators and partners are racing to shape a world where everyone can thrive through technology and AI training,” Stewart commented. He added, “Through this new collaboration, Oregon will have access to the NVIDIA technologies it needs to upskill and empower its workforce to innovate, compete and grow its economy.”
HECC Director Ben Cannon also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, noting, “We are excited for this strategic collaboration with NVIDIA that will help position Oregon higher education institutions and workforce training providers to lead in preparing students for responsible application of AI and cutting-edge technologies needed in Oregon. This highly collaborative and tailored approach to training, innovation and research for some of the most high-demand fields in Oregon is designed to drive economic growth and open doors for diverse Oregonians to high-paying careers.”
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The entire endeavor will be overseen by a dedicated steering committee comprising representatives from both state government and industry, ensuring strategic alignment and effective implementation of the program’s goals.
