ABQ Times

Institutions across New Mexico have come together to form the New Mexico Artificial Intelligence Consortium, aiming to enhance the development and understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. The consortium includes Los Alamos National Laboratory, Sandia National Laboratories, The University of New Mexico (UNM), New Mexico State University (NMSU), New Mexico Institute for Mining and Technology (NM Tech), Central New Mexico Community College (CNM), and the New Mexico Consortium.

Jason Pruet, director of the National Security AI Office at Los Alamos National Laboratory, stated that "this collaboration between the laboratories and universities of New Mexico will strengthen our ability to harness the potential of artificial intelligence for solving our most important challenges in science and security, and provides exciting opportunities for building teams across a broad span of disciplines."

The institutions involved bring diverse expertise to the project. Sandia National Labs contributes knowledge in AI security, reliability, scientific and data-driven machine learning, as well as AI software and hardware co-design. Los Alamos National Lab offers skills in high-performance computing, advanced modeling, and data analysis. Together, these resources provide the computational power necessary for developing AI technologies.

Jen Gaudioso from Sandia National Laboratories remarked that "by uniting New Mexico's premier research institutions, we're creating an ecosystem that will accelerate breakthroughs in AI while ensuring these technologies are robust, secure, and beneficial to society." She emphasized that this initiative positions New Mexico as a national leader in trustworthy AI solutions.

The consortium aims not only to advance AI technology but also to educate state residents through comprehensive programs. Melanie Moses from UNM highlighted that "AI will have a tremendous impact on research and education around the world," adding that they are focused on ensuring locals understand both risks and benefits associated with AI.

Enrico Pontelli from NMSU expressed enthusiasm about joining forces with other state institutions: “NMSU is delighted to join forces with the other research institutions in the state and the two national labs to coordinate research and educational efforts in AI.” He believes this collective effort could position New Mexico prominently on a national level within this field.

Beyond academia, there is hope for industry collaboration by supporting startups based on AI technology. This work could help create an ecosystem conducive to job creation while diversifying local economic opportunities.

More information about this initiative can be found on their website dedicated specifically towards promoting awareness regarding ongoing developments within this sector statewide.