By STATE REP. La SHAWN FORD
(D-CHICAGO)

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to spark a robust debate in our society, but all can agree it is a technology with true staying power.

This is why it is essential for Illinois and the United States to take a leading role in the advancement of this technology. The global landscape is shifting rapidly, particularly as nations like China expand their AI infrastructure and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) education initiatives.

The United States must seize the opportunity to lead with AI systems that reflect our democratic values, enhance security, and create equitable opportunities for all. Illinois has a crucial role to play in this narrative, not only expanding the state’s innovation capacity but also supporting federal efforts to secure America’s technological future.

Illinois is already one of the nation’s top data-center markets, with research universities at the forefront of breakthroughs in agriculture, medicine, and climate science. Companies are increasingly drawn to the Midwest for its cost-effectiveness, reliability, and skilled workforce.

As AI-driven electricity demand is projected to surge, it’s vital that we continue upgrading our energy grid to attract and retain AI-intensive industries.

To harness the full potential of AI, we must develop a comprehensive ecosystem that addresses workforce development, infrastructure, and broad adoption across various sectors. The U.S. is facing shortages in AI-aligned roles, from skilled trades to cybersecurity. We must prioritize AI literacy and STEM education from early childhood through adult training programs.

This effort is especially critical in underserved communities, where workforce development can drive economic mobility and community stability.

To build a complete AI ecosystem, we must invest in our workforce. Across the country, employers face shortages in AI-aligned roles, from skilled trades and advanced manufacturing to cybersecurity and data-center operations. We must strengthen early education in computer science and STEM and create accelerated pathways for adults through community colleges, unions, nonprofits, and public-private partnerships, which is something I am working toward as the chairman of the House Appropriations – Higher Education Committee.

In all communities – especially those that have historically been underserved— workforce development investments will create much-needed stability, mobility, and long-term community health and as importantly create good paying jobs for the next generation of workers.

To lead in AI, Illinois must ensure a resilient energy supply and modern transmission systems. Continued investment in power and data centers is necessary to anchor a Midwest AI hub. Expanding broadband and cloud access in rural and underserved neighborhoods is vital to ensure that no community is left behind.

Historically, innovation has often bypassed low-income communities and communities of color. Major technological transitions offer a unique chance to reset who participates in economic growth. Equitable AI deployment can generate middle-class career pathways, expand access to health care and reliable transportation, strengthen public safety, modernize small businesses, and support nonprofits serving vulnerable populations. The benefits of AI must reach not only rural Illinois but also in Chicagoland.

Illinois’ energy legislation marks the beginning of a new era of opportunity. To ensure that these benefits reach every neighborhood, we must continue to build the talent, infrastructure, and innovation systems necessary for equitable AI growth. Underserved and rural communities should not just be spectators in the AI economy; they must be full participants.

Let us work together — state and federal governments, businesses, and community organizations — to create a regulatory environment where AI can thrive, ensuring that all communities, especially those historically marginalized, benefit from the technological advancements of our time. Together, we can shape a future that celebrates innovation while uplifting every corner of our great state.

 

State Rep. La Shawn Ford is a Democrat from Chicago who serves Illinois’ 8^th District.