The Central Wisconsin AI Center is launching in Wausau with the goal of offering industry-specific AI solutions and training for regional businesses. Pictured are UW-Stout Chancellor Katherine Frank, NTC President Jeannie Worden and UW-Stevens Point Chancellor Thomas Gibson, leaders of the partnering institutions. (Contributed)

New AI center to launch in Central Wisconsin

By Patrick Lynn

CENTRAL WISCONSIN — A new initiative aimed at advancing artificial intelligence (AI) through workforce training and industry integration is set to launch this week in central and northcentral Wisconsin.

The Central Wisconsin AI Center (CWAIC) will officially open on Nov. 1 at Northcentral Technical College (NTC). Representatives from NTC, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, the University of Wisconsin-Stout, the Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce, and Midpoint Consulting will discuss the center’s goals and the anticipated impact on the region.

The CWAIC will serve as a hub for AI education, business development, and workforce transformation. Its mission is to empower workers and businesses to adopt AI technologies, with a focus on offering workforce training programs, K-12 educational initiatives, and AI solutions tailored to specific industries.

“As the workforce evolves, NTC is committed to providing educational opportunities in AI that empower workers and businesses across the diverse industries we support, including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and more,” said NTC President Jeannie Worden. “We are proud to partner with UW-Stevens Point, UW-Stout, the Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce, and Midpoint Consulting to build a culture of responsible AI use that drives productivity, sustainability, and innovation in central Wisconsin.”

UW-Stevens Point Chancellor Thomas Gibson highlighted the university’s role in integrating AI into K-12 education, saying, “We will support current and future educators in leveraging AI technologies in the classroom, helping students excel in a rapidly changing technological landscape. The Central Wisconsin AI Center will serve as a critical foundation for growing Wisconsin’s AI talent pool.”

UW-Stout Chancellor Katherine Frank added, “Our collaborative efforts with the center will foster the next generation of AI-driven solutions and tools that will benefit industries far and wide.”

Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce President Dave Eckmann emphasized the transformative nature of AI, noting that the center will ensure businesses and professionals have access to the tools needed for growth in an AI-driven economy.

The CWAIC aims to position the region as a leader in AI innovation, boosting economic development through cutting-edge education and business collaboration.