Summary:
AI strike team aims to create 100,000 tech jobs in Pittsburgh by 2028.
Focus on regional computing infrastructure, workforce training, and attracting defense tech.
Initiative gained momentum post-AI Horizons summit and Stargate announcement.
Ansys, Duolingo, and Aurora Innovation identified as key tech anchors.
Plans to advocate for tax incentives and zoning benefits for data center development.
An AI strike team is on a mission to transform Pittsburgh into a leading AI hub, aiming to create 100,000 tech jobs by 2028. This initiative, outlined in planning documents shared with the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, involves several key projects:
Key Initiatives
- Regional Computing Infrastructure
- Workforce Training
- Defense Tech Attraction
- Demonstration Hub
The team will refine its policies and projects over the coming weeks, with an official presentation set for March. Jay Katarincic, the board chair, emphasized the urgency for action, stating, "We don’t need more studies proving Pittsburgh is punching below its weight; we need action."
Originally focused on revitalizing Bakery Square post-Philips Respironics, this effort has expanded to position Pittsburgh among the nation’s premier tech hubs.
Rich Fitzgerald, executive director of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, noted that regions investing in AI infrastructure are witnessing the growth of high-paying tech jobs and advanced manufacturing. He believes that Southwestern Pennsylvania has everything needed to lead this economic transformation.
The organizing efforts gained momentum following the AI Horizons summit in October, especially after President Trump's announcement regarding a partnership between OpenAI, Oracle, and Softbank on a significant data center project called Stargate. This initiative aims to channel substantial funding into Pittsburgh.
The planning documents highlight major tech companies like Ansys, Duolingo, and Aurora Innovation as essential anchors for this development, although concerns arise as Duolingo expands in NYC and Ansys is amid an acquisition.
Pittsburgh's tech landscape has had mixed success with federal support, securing Build Back Better funding for robotics in 2022 but missing out on a federal tech hub designation the following year.
To attract tech companies, the strike team plans to advocate for tax incentives and zoning benefits, making it easier to develop data centers in the region.
While the support from Governor Josh Shapiro remains uncertain, two state senators are advising the strike team.
Two redevelopment targets, Bakery Square and Hazelwood Green, are already gaining attention through branding and government engagement, supported by initiatives like the “AI Avenue” banners along Penn Avenue.
To meet the workforce demands of this growing sector, the organizers intend to collaborate with universities and local organizations. Will Allen, a former Steelers safety, has been appointed to lead the workforce strategy, emphasizing inclusive access for the entire Southwestern Pennsylvania community.
Joanna Doven, owner of Premo Consultants, is leading the strike team as executive director, assisted by notable figures in the local tech and government sectors.
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