The Brookings Institution released a new report that gives Milwaukee’s tech ecosystem a major nod. In the report titled, Mapping the AI Economy: Which Regions Are Ready for the Next Technology Leap? Brookings explores which U.S. metro areas are best positioned to thrive in the age of artificial intelligence. 

While West Coast giants like San Francisco still dominate, the real story is how cities like Milwaukee and Madison are climbing the ranks.

Milwaukee: A Nascent Hub on the Rise

Milwaukee is officially recognized as a “Nascent Hub” in Brookings’ AI economy report – a category for regions showing early promise in adoption, innovation, and workforce development. According to the authors, Mark Muro and Shriya Methkupally, cities in this tier are “making gains” in AI usage across industries but still need to boost innovation capacity and talent density.

Yet, Milwaukee is outpacing other Midwest cities like Chicago and Minneapolis in AI adoption. That’s no small feat – and a sign that the region is turning the page on what the future of work and innovation looks like in Wisconsin.

More than half of U.S. metro areas were in the bottom two tiers, suggesting “significant shortfalls in talent pipelines, research infrastructure, and enterprise adoption.”

Why It Matters: AI is Fueling the Next Wave of Economic Growth

Brookings found that since 2020, AI job postings have doubled nationwide. But most of that opportunity is still concentrated, with just 30 metro areas accounting for 67% of all AI job listings. These include well-known hubs like Seattle, Austin, and Washington D.C.

Milwaukee is one of the few in the Rust Belt making meaningful moves to join that group.

But here’s where the opportunity lies: While “Star” and “Emerging” hubs may have more talent and R&D strength, AI adoption rates are surprisingly similar across tiers. This means nascent hubs like Milwaukee can stay competitive with investments in the right areas – especially workforce development and innovation infrastructure.

“While the Bay Area’s dominance isn’t going down, we see other places rising up the ranks,” says Shriya Methkupally, senior research assistant at Brookings Metro.

Wisconsin’s AI Trajectory: What’s Driving Growth?

Wisconsin has seen notable progress since Brookings’ previous AI report in 2021. Here’s what’s working:

• • Madison has been named an Emerging Hub, driven by strong innovation scores and high-performance computing (HPC) research.
  • Milwaukee continues to advance thanks to major players like:
    • Milwaukee School of Engineering’s Dwight and Dian Diercks Computational Science Hall
    • Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute (a joint effort between UW-Milwaukee and Marquette University).

• Microsoft announced a $3.3 billion investment in Wisconsin to build a major cloud and AI infrastructure project, including a state-of-the-art data center campus, a manufacturing-focused AI co-innovation lab, and an AI skilling initiative to train over 100,000 residents and develop the region’s next generation of tech talent.

• • Milwaukee Tech Hub supports a thriving AI community, offering free resources and programs for startups, established businesses, students, and anyone looking to upskill in AI.
  • Choose MKE Tech maintains a calendar of monthly tech events, including AI-focused talks designed for learning, networking, and staying up to date on the latest advancements. 

These public–private partnerships are creating a strong foundation for local AI talent, research, and enterprise adoption.

Build Talent, Boost Innovation 

Brookings emphasizes that nascent hubs need support to compete globally. Their top recommendations include:

• Invest in AI talent pipelines
• Share AI capabilities and best practices across regions
  Increase federal and state support for emerging tech centers

That last point matters. As the report notes, global competition  (especially from fast-moving economies like China) makes U.S. regional investment more urgent than ever.

The Role of SMBs in Wisconsin’s AI Story 

Wisconsin’s economy is fueled by small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs), particularly in manufacturing, distribution, and construction. Yet, Brookings notes that SMBs are adopting AI at half the rate of larger enterprises – a key area for future growth.

Milwaukee and Wisconsin, as a whole, have a huge opportunity to accelerate AI adoption in these industries. We’ll not only future-proof our economy but also gain a competitive edge.

The Takeaway: Milwaukee Has Momentum – Let’s Build on It

Milwaukee is on the map as a growing hub for AI – and Brookings just validated that momentum. With the right focus on talent, infrastructure, and cross-industry adoption, Milwaukee will continue to thrive as a leading tech city in the Midwest.

For those wondering if Milwaukee is the right place to build, hire, or innovate – the data is speaking. The AI economy is growing here. Now’s the time to choose MKE.

LEARN MORE

The Brookings Institution is a leading nonpartisan think tank known for its influential research that shapes policy on economic and tech issues. Read the full report here.

Summer in Milwaukee brings more than sunshine – it brings people together. From afternoons on Lake Michigan’s shores to nights at Summerfest, the city comes alive, and so does its tech community. Whether you’re networking over cold brews, teeing off at a golf outing, or diving deep into AI, this season is full of opportunities to connect and level up your network and career. Keep reading for a round-up of Milwaukee’s must-attend tech events this summer.

Why Summer is the Ultimate Time to Plug In

Milwaukee summers are unmatched. Long, sunny days and warm nights make it easy to show up, meet new people, and have real conversations about where tech is headed next. Whether you’re deep in development, curious about coding, or launching a startup, this season offers a perfect backdrop for inspiration, growth, and outdoor favorites, like lakefront walks, paddling the Milwaukee River, and patio happy hours.

Milwaukee’s Tech Events This Summer

From bitcoin meetups to golf fundraisers and AI think tanks, the summer lineup has something for every kind of tech pro. Mark your calendar with these can’t-miss tech events: 

July 8: Milwaukee Bitcoin Meetup
Explore the latest in Bitcoin and blockchain tech with fellow crypto enthusiasts.

July 9: Global AI Milwaukee User Group Meeting
Connect with peers to discuss the practical applications and implications of AI today.

July 9: Founder Finder 

High-energy networking event designed to connect startup founders with potential co-founders and collaborators across key roles like software development, marketing, finance, and more.

July 10: Wisconsin Technology Council – Tech Council Innovation Network (TCIN) Luncheon

Sponsored by Microsoft and hosted by Quarles & Brady, hear from investors, network, enjoy lunch, and the program highlighting “The Wisconsin Portfolio.”

July 17: From SEO to GEO – Position Your Brand for Success in the Age of AI-Powered Search
Discover how AI is reshaping digital visibility and what it means for your brand.

July 17: Wisconsin Technology Association – July Networking Event
Network with leaders across Wisconsin’s tech sector in a casual summer setting.

July 22: 2025 Wisconsin Technology Council Golf Outing 

Sign up for a scramble golf tournament to celebrate with members and friends of the Wisconsin Technology Council at The Oaks Golf Course in Cottage Grove. 

July 22: AI Risk Readiness – Navigating Risks & Responsible Adoption of AI Tools
Learn how to balance innovation with responsibility in your AI strategy.

July 22: Wisconsin Databricks User Group
Join fellow data professionals to discuss best practices in using Databricks.

July 30: MKE Tech Founders Day
Celebrate local innovation with Milwaukee’s founders and startup leaders.

August 2: Code & Coffee
Drop in for casual conversation, coding, and community at this laid-back meetup.

August 13: Milwaukee Bitcoin Meetup – Ice Cream Social (in Brookfield)
Cool down and talk crypto over ice cream at this special summer edition.

August 14: STEM Forward Scholarship Program Fundraiser Golf Outing
Hit the green to support future STEM leaders at this annual charity event.

August 18: 2025 SIM Charity Golf Classic
Another great day of golf supporting SIM’s local outreach and tech education efforts.

Check back often, as we regularly update our TechKnow events calendar. 

More Than Just Events – This Is Community

Summer in Milwaukee is about showing up for each other – at the lake, on the patio, and in tech spaces. These events are launchpads for relationships, ideas, and opportunities. Whether you’re pitching a startup, shaping AI, or just curious, showing up matters. The Milwaukee tech scene is buzzing.

Make This Summer Count

With sunshine, energy, and great people all in one place, there’s no better time to get involved. Whether it’s your first meetup or you’re ready to lead your own user group, every event is a step toward something bigger. Show up. Dive in. And let this summer move your tech career forward.

Data science is one of the most dynamic fields in tech today, and it’s reshaping industries worldwide. At Johnson Controls, data scientists use their expertise to drive innovation in building efficiency and sustainability. We analyze complex datasets, create predictive models, and develop algorithms that help our clients optimize energy use and improve building management systems. This field is rapidly growing, and Milwaukee is emerging as a hub for eco-tech and innovation.

What is Data Science?

Data science is all about analyzing large amounts of information to find patterns and insights that help businesses make better decisions. Data scientists use tools like programming languages (such as Python and R) and statistical methods to work with this data. We create visualizations and use machine learning to predict outcomes. You’ll find data scientists working in many industries like finance, healthcare, retail, and tech, helping companies spot trends, improve processes, and solve problems. 

Morning

8:00 a.m.

Morning Brew

On a crisp Milwaukee morning, I begin my day at Colectivo Coffee in the Historic Third Ward, sipping a latte while scrolling through social feeds and catching up on the news. Afterward, I hop on my bike and ride to the Johnson Controls headquarters. I work on-site a couple of days a week, while the rest of my tasks are done remotely from my home office or one of my favorite coffee shops – there are so many good ones!

9:00 a.m.

Team Sync-Up

I join a team stand-up meeting where we share progress, address challenges, and plan our priorities for the day. Today, we’re tackling improvements to our energy prediction model, ensuring it can scale for various building types. As a senior data scientist, I lead the technical discussions, guiding our team through potential solutions and aligning our work with Johnson Controls’ sustainability goals.

10:00 a.m.
Digging into Data

After my meeting, I settle into a focus work session, diving into our latest building performance datasets. Our team is currently refining a model that predicts energy consumption trends, incorporating both environmental and operational variables. The goal is to optimize building efficiency for our clients by identifying patterns and suggesting sustainable solutions that significantly reduce energy costs. It’s a challenging task, but the fulfillment comes from knowing that my work directly contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of buildings worldwide, promoting a more sustainable future.

Afternoon

12:00 p.m.
Lunch in Walker’s Point

Since it’s an in-office day, I head out to Walker’s Point for lunch with colleagues at Fuel Cafe. It’s warm in the afternoon, so we grab a table in the sun. It’s a great chance to share insights and connect outside the office. After refueling, we return to the office feeling energized and ready to tackle the rest of the afternoon.

2:00 p.m.
Analyzing, Reporting, and Strategizing

Back at my desk, I prepare reports for management, outlining trends, patterns, and predictions from our latest data. These insights help identify opportunities to optimize sales and profitability. Today, I’m refining pricing strategies to align with market trends and client behavior, aiming to boost revenue while maintaining competitiveness. It’s fulfilling work that directly impacts our business strategy.

5:00 p.m.
Evening in Milwaukee

After wrapping up my work, I review my progress and plan for the next day. Milwaukee’s vibrant after-work scene offers plenty of ways to unwind. I’ll head to Lakefront Brewery with friends in the evenings or take my dog for a stroll along the scenic Riverwalk. In the summer, I enjoy visiting the city’s beer gardens or exploring the Bay View neighborhood, which has a restaurant for every craving. Whether it’s classic Wisconsin cheese curds or upscale eats, there’s always something new to try.

Why Work in Data Science?

For those who love tech and solving problems, data science offers an exciting, fulfilling career path. At Johnson Controls, data scientists use their technical skills to develop solutions that make buildings smarter, more efficient, and environmentally friendly. It’s a fast-growing field with endless opportunities to innovate.

The knowledge that the models you create directly contribute to sustainability and energy efficiency is incredibly motivating. If you’re ready to make a real difference through technology, data science might be the perfect path for you—especially with opportunities waiting for you in Milwaukee.

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Tech is reshaping industries, and healthcare is no exception. HealthTech, where healthcare meets technology, is transforming how we approach medical care, making it more efficient, personalized, and accessible. Milwaukee is a hub for GE Healthcare Technologies, a key player in cutting-edge research, technology, and solutions that are driving the future of healthcare.

For those passionate about technology and a desire to make a difference in people’s lives, HealthTech offers an exciting non-clinical career path. Here’s a glimpse into what a typical day looks like for a Software Engineer at GE Healthcare in Milwaukee, where digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) are at the forefront of breakthroughs in healthcare.

What is HealthTech?

First, what is HealthTech? HealthTech, which is short for healthcare technology, is the integration of advanced technologies into the healthcare industry. The goal is to enhance the efficiency, quality, and accessibility of medical services. HealthTech covers a wide range of innovations, from AI-driven diagnostics and wearable health devices to electronic health records, software, and telemedicine. This field is transforming how healthcare is delivered, making it more personalized and effective, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and advancing medical research.

Morning

8:00 a.m. 

Coffee Ritual

On a beautiful summer morning in Milwaukee, I start my day by riding the elevator down to the street level. I head to Anodyne Coffee for an Americano, which I enjoy as I stroll along the Milwaukee River, watching kayakers paddle by and soaking in the fresh morning air. Afterward, I hop in my car and drive to the  GE office for an in-person meeting with my team. I spend two or three days a week at the office, with the rest of my work done remotely.

9:00 a.m. 

Prepping for the Week Ahead

As a Software Engineer at GE Healthcare, my day begins with reviewing the week’s project goals. My team is focused on developing the next generation of Mobile Digital Health products, specifically working on a new monitoring platform that enables seamless connectivity between patient monitoring devices and microservices. This platform is designed to improve the ability of healthcare professionals to care for their patients more effectively. 

10:00 a.m. 

Collaborating with the Team

My first meeting of the day is a stand-up with the software team. We gather to discuss progress, troubleshoot any issues, and set priorities for the day. Today’s focus is on refining a critical component of our monitoring platform’s architecture to enhance scalability and performance. As a senior team member, I’m responsible for driving these design and development efforts, ensuring they align with the overall product roadmap and meet strict security guidelines.

10:30 a.m.

Focus Block 

With the day’s objectives set, it’s time to dive into coding. One of the key tasks today involves coding a new feature that allows real-time data from patient monitoring devices to be securely transmitted and analyzed. It’s challenging, but knowing that this feature could help save lives makes it incredibly rewarding.

Afternoon

12:30 p.m.

Connecting and Learning

Lunch at GE Healthcare is an opportunity to connect with colleagues and learn something new. The company hosts “lunch and learn” sessions where experts from various departments share insights on the latest trends in HealthTech. Today, I’m attending a session on advancements in medical imaging, which is particularly relevant to my work. After the session, I like to take a quick walk around the neighborhood to clear my mind before tackling afternoon tasks.

2:00 p.m. 

Problem-Solving and Collaboration

The afternoon is typically dedicated to problem-solving and collaboration. If a bug is discovered in the software, it’s my job to troubleshoot and resolve it. This involves debugging code, running tests, and working closely with the quality assurance team to ensure the software meets all necessary requirements. Collaboration is crucial in HealthTech, and I often review feedback from clinicians to understand their needs and challenges. This feedback loop ensures that our software not only works technically but also adds real value in a clinical setting.

3:00 p.m. 

Strategic Planning and Innovation

As the day winds down, I shift my focus to strategic planning and innovation. Today, I’m working on a long-term project that aligns with GE Healthcare’s vision of creating a world where healthcare has no limits. We brainstorm new features, explore emerging technologies, and plan for future software updates.

5:00 p.m. 

Enjoying Milwaukee’s Best 

After wrapping up my work, I take a moment to review what was accomplished and set goals for the next day. Then, it’s time to log off and unwind. Living in Milwaukee offers a wealth of options for after-work activities. On a nice evening, I might head over to Bradford Beach for a walk along the lake or catch a Brewers game at American Family Field if they’re playing. Other nights, I’ll grab dinner with friends in the Historic Third Ward, where the city’s food scene never disappoints. Whether it’s a burger at Sobelman’s or trying out a new spot in Bay View, there’s always something delicious to enjoy.

Why Work in HealthTech?

If you’re passionate about technology and healthcare, a career in HealthTech offers the best of both worlds. This field allows you to use your technical skills to develop tools that directly impact people’s lives and shape the future of healthcare. It’s challenging, innovative, and incredibly rewarding. And it’s a rapidly growing field.

The knowledge that the software you help create could one day save lives or enhance patient care is a powerful motivator. Each day ends with the satisfaction of knowing you’ve contributed to something truly meaningful. If you’re ready to make a real difference through technology, HealthTech might be the perfect path for you—especially with all that Milwaukee has to offer.

VIEW JOBS

Milwaukee’s tech scene is brewing with opportunities for those looking to kickstart or advance their tech careers. From school programs to reskilling initiatives, Milwaukee is shaping the future of tech talent and creating new pathways for individuals in and around the city. Whether you’re a student, a professional seeking to upskill, or looking to launch your startup, Milwaukee has something for you. Let’s explore the programs and opportunities that can help you succeed in Milwaukee’s tech landscape. Best of all, many of these programs are free, making them accessible and inclusive for the tech community.

About MKE Tech’s Programs

By collaborating with our members and partner organizations, we build programs that strategically drive toward our mission of inclusively expanding tech talent in the region through events, resources, and educational opportunities for all ages and skill levels. These programs develop the skills and connections needed to grow Milwaukee’s tech community and stay competitive.

Tech Programs by MKE Tech

Milwaukee offers a variety of free programs designed to develop new skills and advance your tech career. Here are some of the standout programs available:

FUSE

For students and professionals looking to enhance tech skills

Prepare for your future with FUSE, a unique summer boot camp designed to build tech skills applicable to any career. This program offers hands-on learning in data, artificial intelligence, and Python while also developing essential professional and networking skills. Perfect for anyone looking to stay ahead in the fast-paced tech industry, FUSE gives you a competitive edge in the job market. Running for eight weeks, the FUSE program provides an excellent opportunity to network with peers and industry leaders who can help open doors for your career. Best of all, this program is offered free of charge to all accepted students, making it accessible regardless of background or experience. Whether you want to enhance your skill set or break into the tech field, FUSE provides the training and connections you need to succeed. 

Learn more

FOR-M

For aspiring tech startup founders

FOR-M is an initiative of the Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition and We Pivot to support and grow Milwaukee’s tech startup ecosystem. FOR-M guides aspiring tech startup founders through the early stages of their entrepreneurial journey. This program offers the guidance, connections, and support to kickstart new tech businesses. Whether you aim to launch a startup or gain insight into the tech startup ecosystem, FOR-M provides invaluable resources and mentorship. Even better, the FOR-M Incubator is free and doesn’t take any equity. Check out the upcoming incubator schedule.

Learn more

Hour of Tech

For students interested in exploring tech careers

Inspiring the next generation of tech enthusiasts, Hour of Tech is a week-long event held in December. It aims to teach students a variety of activities that showcase the possibilities of tech, from coding and design to user experience, 3D modeling, cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, and more. This event supports the national Hour of Code movement during Computer Science Week, sparking interest in coding and computer science among students to inspire future leaders in tech. Check out a recap from a previous year on our page.

Learn more

Tech Skilling

For career changers and professionals looking to upskill

By broadening access to tech career pathways for untapped talent, this program benefits both employers seeking skilled talent and individuals aiming to hone key tech skills. Designed to equip participants with the knowledge and practical experience needed to thrive in the tech industry, these programs are ideal whether you’re looking to change careers or advance in your current role. Tech Skilling utilizes the time-tested model of registered skilling programs, partnering with intermediaries to bridge the talent gap for employers and adults entering the tech field. If you’re a company in need of skilled professionals or someone looking to learn a new tech skill, visit our page and fill out an application to start your success story.

Learn more

Higher Education for Tech Careers

For those pursuing degrees or certificates in tech

The Milwaukee area is home to 12 colleges and universities that offer world-class research opportunities, top-ranked educational programs, and dynamic initiatives to meet the needs of local industry. Whether you’re pursuing a short-term credential or an advanced degree, you can advance your skills alongside the Midwest’s top tech minds in your chosen program. View the complete list of colleges and universities on our website.

Learn more

Grow Your Tech Career in Milwaukee

Milwaukee is dedicated to shaping the future of tech by providing diverse educational programs and reskilling opportunities. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or an aspiring entrepreneur, the city’s vibrant tech ecosystem offers the resources and support needed to advance your career. Explore these programs and take the next step toward a successful tech career in Milwaukee.