U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin visited the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) on September 24, 2023, to spotlight advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and workforce development. Her tour included the Connected Systems Institute (CSI) and the Microsoft AI Co-Innovation Lab, where she engaged with faculty, students, and industry leaders. The visit aimed to demonstrate how UWM is fostering innovation in advanced manufacturing while preparing Wisconsin’s workforce for future demands.
During her visit, Baldwin observed the transformative initiatives at CSI, where students gain hands-on experience with automation technologies such as robotics and digital twin solutions. These efforts are supported by partnerships with leading companies, including Rockwell Automation and Regal Rexnord. The institute’s automated manufacturing testbed and AI projects focused on continuous improvement were featured prominently, illustrating UWM’s commitment to aligning education with the evolving needs of industry.
“Wisconsin has a rich history of innovation, backed by world-class universities that equip residents with the knowledge necessary to secure well-paying jobs and drive the economy forward,” Baldwin stated. The Microsoft AI Co-Innovation Lab, which opened in June 2023, has already collaborated with approximately 25 companies, yielding notable success stories. For instance, Regal Rexnord shared how AI-driven solutions developed at the lab have enhanced operational efficiency and productivity.
Industry Collaboration and Student Engagement
Baldwin’s tour emphasized the importance of CSI’s innovative hack-a-thon model, which is designed to engage students actively while fostering collaboration with industry partners. Joe Hamann, executive director of CSI, remarked, “CSI is not just a research hub; it’s a launchpad for student careers and industry transformation. Our students are solving real problems, and our partnerships are creating pathways to innovation in manufacturing across Wisconsin.”
The discussions also touched on the potential for federal funding to enhance UWM’s research initiatives, particularly in areas linked to the Department of Defense, such as battery testing and cybersecurity compliance. Baldwin engaged with faculty and students on emerging research themes, expressing her interest in expanding federal support for institutions like UWM.
“It was great to be on campus and able to meet with students, staff, and faculty who are working to strengthen Wisconsin’s competitive edge in industries that will only continue to grow,” Baldwin added. Her visit underscored the necessity for sustained investment in experiential education, with CSI serving as a model for effective collaboration between academia and industry.
Projects funded by a grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation in the summer of 2025 were also highlighted, reinforcing the state’s commitment to nurturing innovation. As UWM continues to drive advancements in AI and workforce readiness, the collaboration between educational institutions and industry leaders is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Wisconsin’s economy.
