The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) was proud to visit the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) in Vicksburg, Mississippi for a full day of engagement focused on artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and research. Dr. Kollin Napier, Ph.D., Director of MAIN, and Wayne Francis, MAIN AI Strategist, represented MAIN during the visit. The day included a tour of ERDC facilities, technical briefings, and a presentation on MAIN’s statewide AI work. The MAIN at ERDC Vicksburg engagement highlighted the depth of AI and research capability taking shape across Mississippi’s innovation ecosystem.
A Full Day of AI, HPC, and Research Engagement
The MAIN at ERDC Vicksburg visit covered a wide range of capabilities. The day began with an overview of the Information Technology Laboratory (ITL). It also included a tour of ERDC’s high-performance computing (HPC) supercomputer facilities. In addition, discussions explored mobile edge computing, robotics, autonomy, sensing, and applied AI research.
Just as valuable were the conversations beyond the formal agenda. These discussions surfaced shared interests, meaningful connections, and opportunities for future collaboration. As a result, the visit produced both immediate insights and a foundation for continued partnership.
Presenting MAIN: Mississippi’s Coordinated Statewide AI Initiative
During the visit, Dr. Napier presented on the work of MAIN to the ERDC team. MAIN is Mississippi’s coordinated statewide AI initiative and the first of its kind in the nation. It brings together K-12, higher education, workforce, government, and industry around a shared AI agenda.
Through this coordination, MAIN helps expand AI education, training, practical application, and responsible adoption across Mississippi. That kind of statewide alignment matters. It becomes even more powerful when connected to the research depth, technical expertise, and advanced computing capacity represented at ERDC.
Recognizing the ERDC Team
MAIN extends sincere thanks to the ERDC leaders and researchers who made the day so meaningful. In particular, we thank Dr. Robert Moser, Althea Henslee, Dr. Benjamin Parsons, Sam Greer, Dr. Haley Dozier, LaKenya Walker, and Dr. Randy Buchanan for their time, insight, and hospitality.
We also thank the many other ERDC team members who shared their expertise, engaged in thoughtful discussion, and participated in the MAIN presentation. Their openness and depth of knowledge made the engagement especially valuable.
Why the MAIN at ERDC Vicksburg Visit Matters for Mississippi
Artificial intelligence is already reshaping research, government, and industry. Because of that, Mississippi has a clear opportunity to lead. The state has the partnerships, infrastructure, talent, and opportunity to move forward together.
Engagements like the MAIN visit to ERDC are exactly how that leadership takes shape. They connect statewide coordination with world-class research and advanced computing. As a result, Mississippi is well positioned to turn its AI momentum into measurable impact for residents, workers, and institutions.
Building on the Momentum
MAIN appreciates Dr. Moser and the entire ERDC team for the warm welcome and meaningful engagement. We look forward to continued collaboration as we build on this momentum together. To learn more about MAIN’s statewide work, visit mainms.org.