RALEIGH — North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein issued an executive order Sept. 2 on artificial intelligence to establish an “AI accelerator” that will act as a “hub for AI governance, research, development, partnership, and training within state government.”
“North Carolina will be stronger if we are equipped to embrace the opportunities and take on the challenges that AI presents,” Stein said in a press release. “This council will modernize our state’s approach to using AI to enhance government operations, drive economic growth, and improve North Carolinians’ lives.”
The order also establishes an AI Leadership Council, which, along with the state Department of Information Technology, will oversee the AI Accelerator’s activities. The council’s role will be to advise the governor and relevant state agencies to make the state a “national leader in AI literacy.”
According to Stein’s press release, Information Technology Secretary Teena Piccione and Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley will co-chair the AI Leadership Council.
“I am honored to chair this council dedicated to strategically harnessing the exponential potential of AI for the benefit of North Carolina’s people, businesses, and communities,” said Piccone. “The AI Accelerator, along with our other initiatives, puts us in a strong position to implement swift and transformative solutions that will not only position North Carolina at the forefront of technological innovation but also uphold the latest standards of data privacy and security.”
“Artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of work and industry, and North Carolina has a unique opportunity to lead in this transformation,” said Lilley. “I’m honored to help guide the state’s AI strategy so we can unlock economic growth, attract innovation, and prepare our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.”
In addition to Piccone and Lilley, there will be at least 19 other members named to the council.
