Milwaukee's AI Landscape: MSOE's Role in Development and Education

Milwaukee is recognized as a nascent AI adopter, with MSOE leading educational initiatives.

Key Points

  • • Milwaukee named a 'Nascent AI Adopter' by Brookings Institution.
  • • MSOE's rAIder Initiative integrates AI into education.
  • • Students engage in AI through competitions and industry projects.
  • • MSOE plans a new Center for Applied AI Education.

The Brookings Institution has recognized Milwaukee as a 'Nascent AI Adopter' alongside 79 other metropolitan areas, highlighting its moderate performance in talent, innovation, and adoption of AI technologies. A key player in this recognition is the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), which has launched its rAIder Initiative to integrate AI tools into education, enhancing student interaction with cutting-edge technology.

Students at MSOE are engaging with AI through various channels, including the Rosie Supercomputer Super Challenge, which encourages the application of supercomputing resources to solve practical issues. Additionally, initiatives like the MSOE AI Club and the Hacksgiving Hackathon foster collaborative problem-solving among students. MSOE's partnerships with local businesses are instrumental, providing students with hands-on experience in AI applications, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world practice.

To further support the workforce, the Center for Professional Education at MSOE offers AI and Machine Learning programs and plans to develop an online Master’s in Machine Learning tailored for professionals. Moreover, MSOE is set to establish a new Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence Education, aimed at promoting multidisciplinary AI education and supporting local industry needs through the upcoming Robert D. Kern Engineering Innovation Center. These efforts signify MSOE's commitment to preparing students for the evolving AI landscape in Milwaukee and beyond.