AI Rec 1 Establish State Networks

Overview

Establish State AI Networks
Policy recommendation 1, Commission on AI in Education

States should establish statewide artificial intelligence networks so people, groups and agencies can connect, communicate, collaborate and coordinate AI efforts across each state.

These statewide networks could eventually form a regional group of statewide AI network representatives who could gather regularly to share challenges and successes.

Coordination across states is crucial as states, colleges and schools implement AI practices, policy and training. Statewide coordination is particularly important in education so that efforts are successful and sustained over time. While AI has the potential to transform learning, teaching and administrative functions, without careful planning and alignment, the potential benefits may go unrealized or be distributed unevenly. 

Statewide networks can provide local and state partners with the opportunity to discuss, share and consider answers to the who, what, when, where, how and why questions that are the key to building consensus and determining the resources needed. Statewide coordination also reduces the chance that efforts will be duplicated or disconnected. 

Integrating AI will require training for faculty, administrators and others. Statewide coordination can help address disparities across rural communities that need varying levels of support.
 

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The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network
Spotlight: The first statewide AI network

The Mississippi Artificial Intelligence Network, or MAIN, is the nation’s first statewide AI network, and, as of January 2025, the only one. MAIN was established to address the rapid emergence of AI and its transformative impact on Mississippi’s workforce. 

Led by Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, MAIN was formed through strategic partnerships with AccelerateMS, the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges, the Mississippi Community College Board, the Mississippi Manufacturers Association, and global tech leaders Intel and Dell Technologies. The extensive network includes all 15 Mississippi community colleges as well as public and private colleges and universities, K-12 education, businesses, and industry associations.

Partnerships enable MAIN to deliver advanced workforce training, technical expertise, infrastructure support and industry alignment. MAIN’s influence extends across both public and private sectors, forging essential alliances with the Mississippi Cyber Initiative, state government, military partners, and agencies such as the Mississippi Department of Education, Institutions of Higher Learning, and the Mississippi Department of Information Technology Services. 

MAIN’s Primary Goals

  • To provide statewide leadership in addressing AI needs for education and the workforce Mississippi
  • To attract and grow AI and advanced technology industries and employers
  • To meet the AI training needs of K-12, community and technical colleges, colleges and universities, and the businesses of Mississippi.