This Week's Latest Tech News in Madison, WI - Sunday April 20th 2025 Edition

This week, Madison, WI made national headlines as a tech powerhouse, highlighting its momentum in sectors from AI to biosciences. Local innovation is being driven by major investments - including a recent $49 million federal designation that’s expected to create 30,000 new tech jobs and generate $9 billion in economic activity over the next decade via Nucamp.

The University of Wisconsin–Madison stands at the center of this growth, connecting students and industry through hands-on labs and the Tech Exploration Lab, where students use AI and AR to solve real-world challenges with guidance from leading companies like Google and Exact Sciences see more here.

Meanwhile, Abingdon Health’s decision to expand at University Research Park joins a landscape that supports nearly 9,300 jobs and brings $825 million to Wisconsin’s economy each year about University Research Park.

These combined efforts, along with innovative startups and engineering advances, show how Madison’s collaborative ecosystem and industry-academic partnerships are shaping real progress - locally and on the national stage.

This energy sets the backdrop for the latest tech stories you’ll find in this edition.

British diagnostics company Abingdon Health has marked a milestone for Madison's biotech community with the opening of its U.S. headquarters and laboratory at University Research Park in April 2025.

This new office brings the company closer to its growing American customer base and is aimed at supporting the expanding demand for rapid diagnostic testing in the region.

According to Abingdon executives, the Madison facility will offer contract development and manufacturing services, focusing on lateral flow test technologies used for health conditions ranging from women's health to infectious diseases and even applications in animal and agricultural sectors.

The company’s move leverages both Madison’s skilled workforce and the established biohealth ecosystem anchored by research at UW-Madison, which were cited as key decision factors for choosing the site (read more).

• New facility opens: Jennifer Wilson, a local biotech engineer, noted that Abingdon's new headquarters directly connects Madison to major advances in diagnostics technology.
• Diverse job opportunities: More than 50 high-skilled positions are projected over the next 18 months, covering lab science, regulatory compliance, biomedical engineering, and operations (learn about Abingdon’s US expansion).
• Significant local investment: Abingdon Health is investing more than $10 million in Madison through 2027, boosting local talent and suppliers.
• Strengthening the sector: Lisa Rodriguez, a biomed researcher at UW-Madison, highlighted how the move underscores Madison’s growing role as a hub for diagnostics innovation.

Key Factor	Impact	Comment
Location	Access to skilled local talent	Anchored by UW-Madison research
Investment	$10M by 2027	Boosts biotech economy
Job Growth	50+ new roles	Direct hiring for lab/science jobs

"The launch coincides with continued growth in the U.S. medtech market - now representing over 40% of the global sector - and reflects a trend among international diagnostics companies to establish operations closer to major North American customers and funding sources," said Richard Smith, a local economic analyst. See Abingdon’s official announcement.

For Madison’s recent graduates, researchers, and bioscience professionals, Abingdon’s arrival not only means more career options but also signals the city’s growing role as a center for diagnostics innovation.

Madison, WI took a notable step in sustainable emergency services this week as the city deployed North America’s first production-ready Pierce Volterra electric fire engine.

Now operating out of Fire Station 8 on the city’s east side, the Volterra builds on years of collaboration and pilot testing between Madison Fire Department and Pierce Manufacturing to bring zero-emission technology into daily fire response.

The electric pumper features a 246 kWh battery that enables zero-emissions pumping and driving and includes Pierce’s patented parallel-electric drivetrain. If the battery is depleted during prolonged incidents, an internal combustion engine can automatically step in to ensure continuous operation - addressing the reliability needed for public safety calls.

For those interested in the technology behind this milestone, details about the dual-power design and operational range can be found on the Pierce Volterra platform overview.

• Sustainability advance: Madison’s deployment of the Volterra supports the city's emission-reduction goals and sets a precedent for green emergency vehicles.
• Firefighter health: The electric operation reduces diesel exposure and noise, supporting a healthier work environment for crews.
• Operational power: With a 1,500 gallons-per-minute pump, 500-gallon water tank, and seating for six, the Volterra offers traditional truck capabilities with zero emissions.

The Volterra’s electric operation means quieter scenes and reduced diesel exposure, which improves communication and limits carcinogenic risks at both the station and on calls.

The engine is equipped with a 1,500 gallons-per-minute single-stage pump, a 500-gallon water tank, and seating for six, matching the capabilities of traditional trucks while reducing emissions.

You can read more about its first week on the job and feedback from Station 8 crews, including insights from Patricia Harris, who noted its quieter ride and ample battery life, in the city's own news release.

Key Feature	Benefit	User Experience
Zero-Emission Driving	Reduces pollution	Quiet and clean operation according to Nancy Lopez
Parallel-Electric Drivetrain	Reliable performance	Seamless switch to combustion engine ensures uptime
High-Capacity Pump	Traditional firefighting capability	Engineers report no compromise versus diesel engines

"This engine combines innovation and safety, helping us respond effectively and sustainably," said Mary White, a firefighter at Station 8.

Notably, Engine 8 quickly proved its versatility by responding as the first arriving company on its first structure fire, further confirming the practicality of electric technology in emergency settings.

This move highlights Madison’s continued leadership in sustainability and innovation within fire service and sets an example for departments across the country.

Learn about the first response and ongoing performance of the Volterra in this detailed report.

The 2025 TEDxUW-Madison event spotlighted the evolving conversation about artificial intelligence (AI) in Wisconsin, bringing together local and national business leaders to share insights on generative AI’s impact across medicine, business, and society.

Speakers from companies like Zoom and Oracle Health emphasized both enthusiasm and caution regarding AI’s integration into healthcare, with Oracle Health’s Nasim Afsar noting that AI is “redefining industries” while warning of the risks of over-reliance and potential bias - particularly the challenge that AI models trained on limited datasets can result in less accurate diagnoses for diverse patient populations.

The tension between promise and pitfalls was echoed by leaders like David Martin, CEO of Illuminate, who discussed both the productive potential of AI in the workforce and the dangers of diminishing genuine human connection when overused.

Discussions at the event also underscored the ongoing debate about balancing technological advancement with rigorous oversight, as Susan Moore of Cava argued that AI should “enhance the human experience, not replace it,” stressing that human connection remains central even as AI tools proliferate (read more).

Recent TEDxUW-Madison sessions have drawn a broad blend of students and executives, with organizers intentionally curating panels composed of C-suite leaders, engineers, and experts from fields like retail and hospitality to foster conversation on skillsets relevant across industries (details here).

This variety ensures perspectives on topics such as AI-generated content, algorithmic safety, soft skills, and the importance of empathy in technology development.

• Diversity of perspectives: TEDx panels intentionally include leaders from varied industries, fostering a richer conversation for attendees.
• Skillset relevance: Speakers introduce skillsets like algorithmic safety and soft skills that transcend specific professional domains.
• Trust and safety: Talks emphasize the need for AI systems to recognize new situations and seek human intervention to maintain trust.
• Empathy and ethics: The importance of empathy and ethical development in technology design was highlighted throughout the sessions (see coverage).

TEDxUW-Madison 2025 highlighted excitement for AI innovation, while reinforcing the need to actively manage ethical challenges, ensure fairness, and keep human-centered values at the heart of technology’s future.

Middleton-based CivilGEO is drawing national attention after earning major recognition in the G2 Spring 2025 Grid® Reports, showcasing the company’s continued growth at the forefront of civil engineering software.

G2, the world’s largest software marketplace, ranks products based on real user feedback and key performance metrics. This spring, CivilGEO’s GeoHECRAS was named a Leader in the Civil Engineering Design and CAD categories, securing 33+ badges that reflect strengths such as ease of use, quality customer support, and innovation.

The software earned high praise for its user-friendly interface and automated workflows, and it led the Small-Business Relationship Index for CAD with a score of 9.51 out of 10.

• G2 Recognition: CivilGEO achieved recognition as a leader, demonstrating excellence in the civil engineering software sector.
• User Feedback: The user-friendly interface and automated workflows set GeoHECRAS apart from competitors, ensuring a seamless experience for engineers.
• Efficiency Gains: GeoHECRAS and GeoHECHMS help engineers complete projects up to 50% faster, from hydrologic modeling to 2D/3D visualization.
• Customer Satisfaction: Customers consistently award CivilGEO a 4.8/5 user rating and commend their continuous improvement ethos.
• Skill-Building: CivilGEO invests in the professional development of engineers via expert-led webinars and practical tutorials, as noted by William White.
• Community Support: Local engineers and leaders recognize CivilGEO for its ongoing collaboration and engagement with regional talent and feedback, as highlighted by Karen White.

Area of Excellence	Impact	Recognition
Ease of Use	Faster workflows	Leader in CAD category
Customer Support	High satisfaction ratings	Multiple G2 badges
Skill Development	Access to expert resources	Commended by engineering community

CivilGEO credits its success to active engagement with local talent and continuous feedback from professional engineers, ensuring their products solve real industry challenges for teams in Madison and beyond.

According to recent coverage, both GeoHECRAS and its companion product GeoHECHMS were highlighted for helping engineers complete projects up to 50% faster than before, simplifying everything from hydrologic modeling to integrated 2D/3D visualization.

In addition to performance, CivilGEO consistently receives high customer satisfaction marks, with a 4.8/5 user rating and multiple “High Performer” and “Momentum Leader” badges for continuous improvement and reliability in project delivery according to industry press reports.

Community leaders and engineers have also recognized CivilGEO for investing in skill-building - offering expert-led webinars and practical tutorials to help engineers stay current.

Company leadership credits its progress to ongoing feedback from engineers and local talent, ensuring the software truly meets user needs as detailed in recent news releases.

With headquarters in Middleton and regional offices worldwide, CivilGEO’s momentum is strengthening Madison's role as a tech and engineering hub and setting a positive trajectory for Wisconsin’s tech scene.

For more about CivilGEO’s latest tools and awards, visit their official website and see why their engineering platforms are such a strong choice for firms modernizing infrastructure and stormwater management.

GE HealthCare is advancing the future of cancer care in Madison through its leadership in theranostics, a precision medicine approach that merges diagnostics and targeted therapy to treat cancer based on a patient’s individual genetic profile.

As a driving force within the Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub, GE HealthCare works alongside partners like UW–Madison to deliver technology enabling clinicians to personalize cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment decisions.

This collaborative environment has helped attract over $49 million in federal investment and additional funding from state and industry partners, with initiatives designed to streamline new technologies into healthcare systems and expand patient access to precision diagnostics and treatments through the Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub grant.

• Advanced molecular imaging has enabled more precise cancer detection and monitoring, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes in Madison.
• Radioligand therapies are being introduced as new targeted options for cancers, addressing conditions where conventional treatments are less effective.
• Tailored care models are developed to ensure that care is individualized for each patient, especially in challenging cancers like prostate cancer.
• Workforce initiatives and training programs are expanding to equip local clinicians with the skills needed for next-generation cancer care.

A longstanding partnership between GE HealthCare and UW–Madison fuels this innovation, combining decades of collaborative research, hundreds of joint projects, and a robust

talent pipeline supporting more than 15,000 biohealth jobs statewide as detailed in recent coverage.

"Working hand-in-hand, our organizations are shaping the future of oncology and creating high-impact roles for professionals across Wisconsin," said John Wilson, a leading biohealth executive in Madison.

Area of Impact	Description	Key Contributor
Precision Diagnostics	Advanced tools for early cancer detection and genetic profiling	Mary Williams
Theranostics Expansion	Innovative therapies reaching broader patient populations	Jennifer Jones
Workforce Development	Training programs for clinicians and researchers	John Wilson

The Tech Hub’s collective efforts now include training programs for local clinicians, mobile screening programs for underserved communities, and projects aimed at integrating emerging therapies more rapidly into clinical care.

Job growth and tech development are on the rise, with projections of 30,000 new direct jobs in the next decade, and a growing number of patients benefitting from these advances each year.

As these initiatives scale, Madison’s collaborative, data-driven environment strengthens Wisconsin’s position at the forefront of personalized oncology with expanded research partnerships, helping to shape more effective and patient-centered cancer care for the future.

The newly implemented 2025 tariffs on Chinese imports are already hitting Madison’s tech sector, affecting both costs for consumers and challenges for businesses and students.

UW–Madison economists highlight that even a 10% tariff on Chinese electronics can increase consumer prices by up to 5.1%, with targeted goods like laptops and smartphones being especially impacted.

Several local tech businesses and startups are deeply integrated with global supply chains; as a result, higher import costs are likely to mean slower hiring, layoffs, and fewer affordable choices in the marketplace.

The daily reality for Madison residents now includes the likelihood of a household seeing more than $1,200 per year in extra costs as a result of these combined tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China - an increase that falls hardest on working families and students, according to an analysis from the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE study on tariff costs per household).

Breaking down these changes:

• Consumer Price Hikes: The average cost of a new laptop in Madison could surpass $1,000, driven by tariffs that also affect smartphones and tablets according to UW–Madison research and news analysis (AP News: Tariffs on Chinese imports).
• Business Pressures: Local tech companies and startups face higher import bills, so they may need to delay projects, cut hiring, or scale back services.
• Student Challenges: Many affordable electronics used by local students come from China, increasing the risk of a digital divide as prices rise and technology becomes essential for education (UW–Madison economists: Impact of tariffs).

A summary table illustrates the shift:

Category	Pre-Tariff Price	Expected Post-Tariff Price	Projected Impact
Laptops	$800	$1,000	+25%
Smartphones	$600	$750	+25%
Networking Devices	$150	$190	+27%

As conversations continue among UW–Madison experts and local leaders like Patricia Lee, John Williams, and Elizabeth Lopez, the focus remains on adapting to these price increases and seeking long-term strategies to maintain access and affordability in tech.

For a look at broader tariff policy and its impacts, see the detailed coverage on trade, consumer prices, and Wisconsin industry at CNBC: How tariffs may impact U.S. consumers.

Quantum computing is rapidly moving from theory to practical application, and UW–Madison is at the forefront of this progress. Assistant Professor Swamit Tannu, who leads the QUEST Research Group and specializes in quantum computing systems and architectures, was recently awarded the National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award for his research on "Enabling Scalable and Resilient Quantum Computer Architectures through Synergistic Hardware-Software Co-Design" (read more about Prof. Tannu’s award and research).

Tannu emphasizes that while the physics behind quantum computers is essential, computer scientists play a big role in designing control computers and software that make this technology usable.

As quantum computers harness qubits - which hold information in more than one state simultaneously - they can tackle problems classical supercomputers would find intractable.

UW–Madison’s Department of Computer Sciences, working closely with the Wisconsin Quantum Institute and other partners, offers a unique interdisciplinary environment and hosts the state’s first quantum computer, making significant strides in software and hardware integration (learn how Prof. Tannu’s team is bridging the hardware-software gap).

To help more people understand quantum basics, Prof. Tannu points to three foundational concepts:

• Qubits: Quantum bits enable parallelism and outperform classical bits. The ability to represent multiple states simultaneously is the core novelty of quantum data.
• Superposition and Entanglement: Quantum states like superposition and entanglement allow quantum computers to explore vastly more solutions simultaneously, increasing computational power.
• Error Correction: Complex error correction is essential because qubits are easily disturbed, making this reliability vital for daily use. (see Prof. Tannu’s talk on quantum error challenges)

For Wisconsin, these breakthroughs have practical upside:

Quantum Impact Area	Potential for Wisconsin	Key Contributor
Healthcare	Faster drug discovery and diagnostics for regional biotech companies advance local innovation.	Susan Martin
Manufacturing	Smarter workflows and efficient production methods help local industry stay competitive.	Elizabeth Gonzalez
Workforce	Rising need for quantum-fluent engineers, with UW–Madison introducing new undergraduate courses such as “Quantum Computing Systems” in 2025 (details on UW–Madison’s quantum curriculum).	Karen Perez

By blending interdisciplinary research, new educational pathways, and public-private partnerships, UW–Madison is positioning Madison and Wisconsin as future leaders in quantum technology and workforce development.

Emerging research in 2025 is reshaping how we think about aging and technology, showing a strong link between regular tech use and lower rates of dementia among older adults - including those in Madison, where nearly one in six residents is 65 or older.

A meta-analysis published in Nature Human Behaviour pooled data from more than 400,000 adults worldwide and found that those using smartphones, computers, or internet-based tools had a 42–58% lower risk of cognitive impairment compared to peers who used tech less frequently.

These results go well beyond local observations, matching findings from global and multi-year studies and challenging the old “digital dementia” belief that technology harms memory as we age.

Instead, researchers - including experts from UT Health Austin and Baylor - are suggesting that regular engagement with digital technology may help keep the mind sharp, even after accounting for age, education level, or general health (Baylor University/Dell Medical School study).

Key Findings from the Latest Meta-Analyses:

• Regular tech use promotes memory retention - Daily digital device users had stronger memory, slower cognitive decline, and better executive function than non-users.
• Online social interactions lower loneliness - Engagement via messaging, video calls, or group activities helped reduce loneliness, a significant factor in cognitive decline.
• Learning new technologies enhances mental agility - Adapting to new technology acts as mental exercise, supporting problem-solving and adaptability.

Researchers also highlighted so-called “technological reserve” - a term used to describe the protective effect of learning and using digital tools - paralleling the benefits of physical activity and higher education.

Digital reminders, navigation apps, and online banking were found to support independence and everyday function, even as memory changes with age (UT Health Austin analysis).

For communities like Madison, this evidence supports expanding digital literacy workshops and encouraging older adults to try out new apps or platforms, not just for convenience but as a real way to help protect brain health throughout aging.

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College has drawn national attention by winning the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, marking the first time a Wisconsin institution has taken home this top honor.

The Aspen Prize is regarded as the country’s signature recognition for high achievement among community colleges, celebrating exemplary student outcomes, workforce alignment, and equitable success.

Southwest Tech distinguished itself with a graduation rate of 54%, nearly 20 percentage points above the national community college average, and a mission-driven approach that ensures graduates are prepared for living-wage careers - a philosophy summed up by their commitment to “never graduate anyone into poverty.” Graduates, on average, earn almost $14,000 more than typical new hires in the region within five years of completing their education.

The Aspen selection committee also recognized Southwest Tech for its proactive work-based learning, strong support systems for students from lower-income backgrounds, and partnerships with local employers to guarantee that programs respond to real workforce needs.

• High graduation rate: Southwest Tech's 54% graduation rate nearly 20 points above the national average highlights student success.
• Mission-driven philosophy: The college pledges to never graduate anyone into poverty, prioritizing living-wage careers for all graduates.
• Work-based learning: Proactive on-the-job experiences and employer partnerships ensure graduates meet real workforce needs.
• Strong support systems: Comprehensive student assistance helps low-income students achieve equitable outcomes.
• Regional economic impact: Graduates earn $14,000 more than regional averages, boosting local economies and social mobility.

Of the $1 million prize, Southwest Tech received $700,000, with the remainder shared among other top finalists like San Jacinto College in Texas and South Puget Sound Community College in Washington.

College	State	Prize Amount
Southwest Tech	Wisconsin	$700,000
San Jacinto College	Texas	Shared among finalists
South Puget Sound CC	Washington	Shared among finalists

The rigorous selection process included data review, site visits, and input from national education experts, emphasizing not only outcomes but sustained efforts to close equity gaps and regularly update curriculum based on industry changes.

“Never graduate anyone into poverty” - Southwest Tech’s guiding philosophy on student outcomes and workforce readiness, as commended by Nancy Martin, a member of the Aspen selection committee.

This achievement highlights how community colleges like Southwest Tech can drive both regional economic growth and social mobility, reflecting their increasing importance in today’s education landscape.

For a closer look at the announcement and insights into the award's background, you can read more about the selection and impact at the Aspen Institute’s Aspen Prize program, learn about Southwest Tech’s award in this Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article, and find further details in this local coverage.

Madison’s tech community is growing stronger with new support programs and recent student successes. Northwood Technical College’s performance at the 2024 SkillsUSA National Championships drew attention, where students Carson Knutson and Hunter Degerstrom placed third (winning silver) and seventh nationally in carpentry and cabinetmaking, which highlights the school’s quality technical education and dedication to workforce development.

Their instructor, Thomas Martinez, emphasized that such achievements showcase the depth of student skills and readiness for the job market, helping maintain Northwood Tech’s high job placement rate; for full competition results and scores, interested readers can refer to the official SkillsUSA Championships site here and learn more about the national event here.

• Student Achievement: Northwood Tech students' high national rankings in skills competitions illustrate the strength of local technical education.
• Expanding Support: The Milky Way Tech Hub is broadening its entrepreneurial resources from Milwaukee to Madison, empowering a diverse tech community.
• Empowerment Initiatives: Bi-weekly meetings and mentorship within the "Milky Way Mafia" offer crucial support for solo founders seeking community.
• Innovation Events: Hack4Good and other events at UW–Madison encourage collaboration and creative problem-solving, with students already earning funding.
• Community Opportunities: Programs like Forward Fest Preview Night and the Madison Women in Tech Summit promote networking and professional growth citywide.

Event	Main Focus	More Info
SkillsUSA Nationals	Technical skills showcase	Visit Site
Milky Way Mafia	Entrepreneur support group	Learn More
Hack4Good at UW–Madison	Tech solutions for societal impact	Event Calendar

“Such achievements showcase the depth of student skills and readiness for the job market.” - Thomas Martinez, Northwood Tech Instructor

Alongside this, the Milky Way Tech Hub, led by David Anderson, is expanding its reach from Milwaukee into the broader Wisconsin region - including Madison - with the launch of the “Milky Way Mafia” mastermind group in May 2025.

This program centers on bi-weekly accountability check-ins, discussion of entrepreneurship-focused books, and aims to support solo founders and innovators who seek a sense of community that is often missing in the Midwest.

The Milky Way Tech Hub’s broader initiatives include STEAM education, mentorship, and business accelerator programs, all working toward greater diversity and inclusive economic growth; details are available at their official site here. Meanwhile, UW–Madison continues to foster creativity with events like Hack4Good, bringing together students from multiple colleges to develop tech solutions that are already earning seed funding.

As more local programs and events launch - including Forward Fest Preview Night, Madison Women in Tech Summit, and Industry Collaboration Day - the city’s tech scene is creating meaningful opportunities for community, learning, and collaboration.

Madison’s tech ecosystem is entering a pivotal phase in 2025, with new federal recognition and broad investments accelerating its future. The city was officially named a U.S. Regional Tech Hub, unlocking a $49 million federal grant aimed at expanding research, innovation, and job growth in personalized medicine and biohealth over the next decade.

This move is forecasted to directly create over 30,000 new jobs and spur $9 billion in economic development, anchoring Madison firmly as a Midwestern leader in tech and biosciences (details from WEDC announcement).

Major players - Microsoft, Google, Epic Systems, and Exact Sciences - continue investing in the region, with notable developments like Microsoft’s $3.3 billion AI datacenter and UW-Madison’s expansion in AI research, rolling out 50 new faculty positions as part of their RISE-AI program (latest Nucamp tech news report).

Collaboration between academia and industry is visible at UW–Madison’s Tech Exploration Lab, where students work hands-on with AI, VR, and other emerging technologies alongside mentors from major tech firms, driving real-world problem-solving and workforce upskilling (read more on UW Tech Lab initiatives).

However, challenges remain:

• Funding remains tough: Securing capital for startups is still highly competitive, with investment rounds usually under $3 million for early ventures, limiting growth opportunities.
• Talent retention struggles: Tech salaries in Madison range from $83,000 to $290,000, but the city faces intense competition for skilled professionals as demand in areas like AI and cybersecurity outpaces local supply.
• Workforce pipeline issues: Efforts such as expanded bootcamps and new university alliances support workforce growth, yet local companies are still challenged by shortages and increasing housing costs that affect retention.

Madison’s advantage lies in its strong university-industry connections, significant public and private investment, and culture of innovation.

If the community continues to invest in STEM education, inclusive workforce programs, and strategic partnerships, it’s poised not just for growth but for tech leadership across the Midwest.