MADISON, Wis.—Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just an abstract concept in our distant future. It’s here now, shaping classrooms, research labs, clinics, business and homes — and it’s here to stay. The question isn’t whether AI will change our lives, but how Wisconsin prepares to thrive in an AI-enabled world.
The Universities of Wisconsin believe the answer starts with a well-educated population that understands the multitude of issues and challenges related to AI and can then seize the opportunities that AI offers. Our mission has always been to serve the people of Wisconsin, and that means ensuring every student, every family, and every employer can benefit from AI in ways that are responsible, practical, and ethically sound.
Here’s how we’re moving forward:
Preparing Students for the Future
AI is transforming the workplace, but durable skills like critical thinking, effective communication, adaptability, and problem-solving that our 13 universities cultivate remain the foundation of success. When paired with AI literacy, these skills make our graduates “future ready.” That’s why every UW university is working to seize the opportunities afforded by AI along with access to systemwide resources to help UW employees and students integrate AI into learning and research.
Addressing Ethical Concerns Head-On
AI raises real questions about privacy, fairness, transparency, and trust. We’re developing governance policies for students, faculty, and staff to ensure responsible use. Our approach is simple: innovation must be paired with integrity.
Driving Research and Economic Growth
From health care breakthroughs to smarter manufacturing, AI research at our universities is already changing lives. By partnering with business and industry – including through the Microsoft Co-Innovation Lab at UW-Milwaukee and UW-Madison’s Wisconsin Research, Innovation, and Scholarly Excellence (RISE) Initiative – we’ll accelerate innovation that strengthens Wisconsin’s economy and improves quality of life statewide.
The stakes are high. AI is shaping the next generation of jobs, research, and civic life. The Universities of Wisconsin are committed to ensuring that Wisconsin doesn’t just adapt but leads – responsibly and inclusively.
The Universities of Wisconsin serve more than 164,600 students. Awarding more than 37,000 degrees annually, these 13 public universities are Wisconsin’s talent pipeline, putting graduates in position to increase their earning power, contribute to their communities, and make Wisconsin a better place to live. Nearly 90 percent of in-state Universities of Wisconsin graduates stay in the state five years after earning a degree. The universities provide a 23:1 return on state investment. The Universities of Wisconsin also contribute to the richness of Wisconsin’s culture and economy with groundbreaking research, new companies and patents, and boundless creative intellectual energy. Learn more at wisconsin.edu.