SEIZING THE MOMENT
AI is transforming the world at an unprecedented pace.
Regions that act quickly will reap the economic, societal, and technological benefits. Forged by steel and now AI, Pittsburgh is a natural AI global leader. With swift, bold moves, Pittsburgh will secure its lead in AI leadership & become a top 10 AI tech hub.
The AI Strike team organizes key players to make this happen.
THE AI STRIKE TEAM
A high-impact team mobilized to drive Pittsburgh’s AI transformation.
WHY NOW?
AI is the new steel - ubiquitous and transformative - and Pittsburgh is its natural leader. With world-class talent, Carnegie Mellon’s top-ranked AI and cybersecurity programs, Pitt’s healthcare and life sciences expertise, abundant natural gas, and a skilled workforce, we have the foundation to lead the global AI economy—but only with bold action.
The AI Strike Team will unite industry, academia, and government to position Pittsburgh as the premier hub for AI innovation, investment, and job creation, driving sustainable growth.
CATALYZE INVESTMENTS
Secure funding and resources to expand AI infrastructure and attract top-tier talent.
DRIVE COLLABORATION
Foster partnerships among tech companies, academic institutions, and policymakers.
DEVELOP AI GROWTH ZONES
Create innovation districts and industrial zones ready for AI-focused development.
SIGNAL "OPEN FOR AI"
Launch bold initiatives to showcase Pittsburgh as a global AI hub to attract investment, companies and talent.
WHAT WE WILL ACHIEVE
By fostering innovation, creating dedicated spaces for growth, and building strong partnerships across sectors, the AI Strike Team is driving the initiatives needed to transform bold ideas into lasting impact. Together, we’re positioning Pittsburgh as the epicenter of the global AI economy.
THE STRIKE TEAM
United by a bold vision, this powerhouse team is turning potential into action and collaboration into results.
Joanna Doven
Executive Director, AI Strike Team | Founder, AI Horizons
Don Smith
CEO, RIDC
Jay Katarincic
Founder, Magarac Venture Partners
Mike Doyle
Former Congressman; K&L Gates
Andrew Moore
CEO, Lovelace AI
Kenny Broadbent
Business Manager, Steamfitters
Shane Shaneman
Nvidia
Scott Andes
Economic Development Lead, Carnegie Mellon University
Cynthia Sweet
Vice Chancellor, Economic Development, University of Pittsburgh
Steve Wray
Executive Director, Block Center for Technology and Society, Carnegie Mellon University
ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The AI Strike Team is steered by a bipartisan advisory committee chaired by Rich Fitzgerald and Jen Gilburg. The advisory committee includes: Senators Jay Costa and Devlin Robinson, Senator McCormick’s District Director Sam Demarco, regional business and advocacy groups, labor and workforce leaders, financial and healthcare institutions, tech and energy industry leaders, among others.
Rich Fitzgerald
Southwestern Pennsylvania Commission, Executive Director
Jen Gilburg
Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, Deputy Secretary
Pittsburgh Has Substantial Competitive Strengths
#1
AI & CYBER SECURITY SCHOOL: CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY
#2
GLOBAL LEAD IN SUPPLY OF NATURAL GAS
#2
US CITY FOR INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS
#15
FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT
INTERESTED?
Sign up for updates and be the first to know about key initiatives, milestones, and opportunities to get involved with the AI Strike Team.
INTERESTED?
Sign up to receive AI Strike Team news and updates.