The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN), the nation’s first and only statewide AI initiative, was established in 2023 in response to the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its projected impact across multiple workforce sectors. MAIN provides AI leadership for the State of Mississippi through awareness, education, training, and innovation initiatives.
FAQ
What is MAIN?
The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network (MAIN) was created in response to the rapid emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its predicted impact on multiple sectors of the workforce. MAIN adopts a comprehensive approach to AI education, workforce training, and awareness initiatives. Backed by strategic partnerships, MAIN is positioning Mississippi as a leader in the AI industry, driving economic growth and creating a prosperous future for the state. MAIN focuses on three primary goals:
- Providing statewide leadership to address AI and workforce development needs for Mississippi’s future.
- Attracting and fostering innovative AI and advanced technology industries and employers.
- Meeting the AI education and workforce training needs of K-12 schools, community and technical colleges, universities, and businesses across Mississippi.
How will MAIN achieve its goals?
- Responsive AI Curriculum:
Intel has developed an up-to-date AI curriculum covering essential concepts, tools, techniques, and ethics. MAIN members, in partnership with Intel and Dell Technologies, will have access to this curriculum, with the ability to embed it—either in whole or in part—into their courses. - Workforce Training:
MAIN members will collaborate with industry experts, academic faculty, and business partners to design customized training that addresses the specific needs and challenges of Mississippi’s businesses and industries. - AI Awareness Campaigns:
MAIN members will lead awareness campaigns, host community events, and deliver public presentations to educate the broader Mississippi population on AI’s potential, its ethical implications, and its role in shaping future industries.
What has MAIN achieved?
Since its inception, MAIN has been the driving force behind AI literacy and workforce training in Mississippi, solidifying its role as the state’s definitive leader in AI education and innovation. By setting the standard for AI initiatives, MAIN continues to propel Mississippi to the forefront of the national AI landscape, ensuring the state remains a model for education, workforce development, and technological advancement.
As of 2024, MAIN has made a transformative impact on AI education in Mississippi, enrolling thousands of individuals, including K-12 educators, higher education professionals, and workforce members from diverse industries, in its free AI courses. Notably, over 2,400 K-12 educators have taken the initiative to learn about AI by enrolling in an Introduction to AI course, collectively earning more than 1,200 CEU, SEMI, and OSL credits at no cost. This is equivalent to over 10,000 hours of AI-focused professional development. Beyond K-12, MAIN has strengthened Mississippi’s workforce by equipping over 1,300 professionals with AI skills through industry-tailored training programs, driving innovation and economic growth across the state.
With over 20,000 cumulative hours of free AI education delivered through courses, workshops, and events, MAIN is equipping Mississippians with the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy. By offering accessible, high-quality AI education, MAIN is fostering statewide innovation and economic growth, enabling communities to actively shape the future of technology.
What will MAIN partners provide?
An initial strategic partnership was established among all 15 community colleges, universities, Intel, Dell Technologies, AccelerateMS, the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges (MACC), the Mississippi Community College Board (MCCB), and the Mississippi Manufacturing Association (MMA) to ensure the success of MAIN. Since its inception, this partnership has expanded to include additional key collaborators such as the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services (ITS) and Amazon Web Services (AWS), further strengthening MAIN’s impact. These partners will provide the following:
- Technical Expertise:
Intel’s AI curriculum, in partnership with Dell Technologies and MGCCC, will deliver the necessary curriculum, technical guidance, and expertise to MAIN members. - Industry Collaboration:
AccelerateMS, MACC, MCCB, and MMA will work closely with MAIN members to facilitate industry collaborations, internships, and job placements, connecting students with real-world AI projects and career opportunities. - Workforce Training:
MAIN will collaborate with MCCB to implement pre-employment training programs and support upskilling for incumbent workers. - Educational Partnership:
MGCCC will foster relationships among institutions in Mississippi to advance AI education and training, promoting the sharing of resources and best practices across the state
What are the MAIN AI labs for?
With strategic investment from AccelerateMS, MAIN has led the establishment of state-of-the-art AI labs at partner institutions across Mississippi. These labs provide a strong foundation for institutions to grow organically over time, creating AI-ready workspaces built for the future. By providing the resources to modernize education, foster innovation, and prepare Mississippi’s workforce, MAIN continues to position the state as the leader in AI education and technological advancement.
Driving Innovation Statewide
- AI-ready labs support the integration and expansion of AI curricula.
- Institutions can revitalize existing courses, develop new programs, and establish future-forward degree pathways.
- These labs foster hands-on research and technological advancement, creating a sustainable ecosystem for innovation.
Investing in Education and Workforce Development
- Strategic Investment: Funding from AccelerateMS equips AI labs with cutting-edge technology and resources.
- Innovation Hub: Labs drive new course creation, enhance research opportunities, and modernize curricula.
- Future-Ready Resources: Recommended tools and workspaces for advanced AI education and workforce training.
Advancing Economic Growth
- AI labs position Mississippi’s institutions as leaders in tech and innovation.
- They align with state goals for workforce readiness, economic development, and AI leadership.
- Students, educators, and workforce participants gain access to transformative, future-focused resources.