This Week's Latest Tech News in Milwaukee, WI - Sunday April 13th 2025 Edition

Milwaukee's tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth in April 2025, with over 2,360 tech companies driving innovation and economic impact.

The sector is projected to create 30,000 new jobs and generate $9 billion in economic value over the next decade. The MKE Tech Hub Coalition's launch of Synapse, a groundbreaking AI initiative for manufacturers, demonstrates the city's commitment to technological advancement.

• Summerfest Tech 2025 is expected to draw over 2,000 attendees from 37 states, focusing on AI, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare innovation. Register by April 18th.
• Major investments in infrastructure include AT&T's $12.5 million and U.S. Cellular's $31 million for 5G connectivity enhancement.
• The Robert D. Kern Engineering Innovation Center, a $76.5 million AI-focused facility, is reshaping downtown Milwaukee's tech landscape.

The job market remains robust, with cloud architects earning up to $201,572 annually, while entry-level positions average $70,000.

Educational initiatives are expanding, with MSOE and MATC leading tech education through a $12.6 billion investment.

This growth is complemented by sustainable practices, highlighted through initiatives like GreenFest MKE 2025, positioning Milwaukee as a leading Midwest tech hub.

Milwaukee's tech scene got a major boost this week as Launch MKE announced a game-changing partnership with Northwestern Mutual, hot on the heels of the company's $13 billion strategic investment initiative.

The collaboration, revealed on April 8, 2025, coincides with Northwestern Mutual's record-breaking year, including their achievement of a $40 billion surplus and an $8.2 billion dividend payout.

This partnership focuses on leveraging Northwestern Mutual's Data Science Institute, which was recently extended through 2028 with a $35 million commitment.

The initiative will provide local startups with access to advanced AI tools, financial resources, and expert mentorship. Launch MKE will tap into Northwestern Mutual's extensive network of over 230 top-ranked financial advisors and tech professionals, creating unprecedented opportunities for Milwaukee's entrepreneurial community.

The partnership addresses critical challenges faced by local startups, including access to capital and technical expertise, while fostering innovation in key areas such as AI development, data analytics, and financial technology.

With Northwestern Mutual's demonstrated commitment to technological advancement and Launch MKE's startup acceleration expertise, this collaboration is set to transform Milwaukee into a leading Midwest tech hub.

The initiative aligns with Northwestern Mutual's broader strategy of combining cutting-edge technology with financial services, creating a robust ecosystem for tech innovation and entrepreneurial growth in the region.

Milwaukee's tech scene is hitting new milestones as the MKE Tech Hub Coalition continues to reshape the city's digital landscape.

The organization's latest initiatives include Synapse, a groundbreaking program helping local manufacturers implement AI solutions. The Coalition, serving as the unifying voice for Milwaukee's 2,360 tech companies, has positioned the city as the 2nd best U.S. location to launch your career.

During the recent First Look Forum, industry leaders gathered to discuss emerging technologies and foster connections between entrepreneurs and investors.

A major highlight was the announcement of Summerfest TechAI, scheduled for June 23-26, which will explore the evolving AI landscape.

The event follows last year's success, which drew nearly 2,900 registrants from 37 states. The Coalition's focus on talent development includes strategic partnerships with educational institutions and industry leaders, aiming to balance the growing demand for tech workers with skilled professionals.

Recent appointments, including Nancy Thomas as Vice President of Infrastructure & Cloud, signal the organization's commitment to strengthening leadership in cloud computing and infrastructure development.

As Milwaukee continues its transformation into a tech hub, the Coalition's efforts in fostering innovation, supporting startups, and developing talent are creating tangible results for the region's tech ecosystem.

Marquette University is transforming Milwaukee's tech education landscape with a comprehensive AI initiative launching in Fall 2025. The College of Business Administration is introducing "AI for All," a required course for all business students that covers practical AI applications, ethical principles, and hands-on experience with popular AI tools.

Students will learn everything from basic coding to data science automation, making sure they're ready to tackle real-world business challenges. The university plans to expand this initiative with a new undergraduate degree in applied AI by fall 2026, allowing students to double major in AI alongside traditional business disciplines.

The program responds to the growing demand for AI skills, with studies showing that 80% of companies are now using or exploring AI in their operations. While Marquette hasn't established a universal policy on AI tools, they're empowering faculty to create guidelines that balance innovation with academic integrity.

The initiative includes specialized tools like EthicsBot and Venture Capital AI, which help students practice real-world scenarios. These developments come at a crucial time, as recent data shows over 1,800 jobs requiring AI skills were posted in the Midwest, with about 300 in Wisconsin alone.

The program emphasizes not just technical skills but also soft skills like emotional intelligence and interpersonal communication, preparing students for a future where AI integration is inevitable.

Through this comprehensive approach, Marquette is positioning itself as a leader in tech education while ensuring Milwaukee remains competitive in the evolving digital economy.

Johnson Controls continues to make waves in sustainable building technology, with their latest 2025 Sustainability Report revealing impressive progress.

The company has exceeded its environmental targets, achieving a 48% reduction in absolute emissions since 2017 and ensuring 56% of their global electricity comes from renewable sources.

Their approach goes beyond just reducing emissions - their smart building solutions are actively transforming urban environments. Through the integration of OpenBlue technology, customers like Standard Chartered Bank have seen energy reductions of 10-12%, translating to over $250,000 in savings within six months.

The company's commitment to innovation is evident in their R&D investment, with 88% of new product development focused on climate-related solutions. Their facility decarbonization initiatives are equally impressive, demonstrated by their Norman, Oklahoma plant which projects a 43% decrease in annual greenhouse gas emissions and $960,000 in yearly savings.

In Milwaukee, these efforts are creating ripple effects across the urban landscape, from improved building efficiency to reduced operational costs. The implementation of IoT-based systems and green infrastructure solutions has positioned the city as a model for sustainable urban development.

Through performance contracting, Johnson Controls has helped customers avoid 41 million metric tons of CO2 emissions and save $8.9 billion through energy and operational improvements.

This comprehensive approach to sustainability isn't just about environmental stewardship - it's about creating smart, efficient, and economically viable solutions for the future of our cities.

Gener8tor's investment accelerator program continues to transform Milwaukee's tech landscape in 2025, operating with an industry-agnostic approach that includes robust support for healthtech startups.

The program invests $100,000 in each selected company for 7.5% equity, providing a 12-week intensive mentorship experience. Through their strategic framework, startups gain access to over $1M in deals and perks from major tech partners like IBM Cloud, Amazon, and Microsoft.

The accelerator's healthcare focus will be highlighted at their upcoming two-day conference in Birmingham, bringing together leading organizations, corporations, investors, and digital health startups.

Currently, Milwaukee's tech sector is projected to create 30,000 new jobs and generate a $9 billion economic impact over the next decade, with healthtech playing a crucial role.

The program's structure includes one-on-one meetings with experienced mentors, network access to corporate partners and investors, and an exclusive showcase event where startups pitch to an audience of entrepreneurs and investors.

• The accelerator limits each cohort to five companies, ensuring focused attention and maximizing the potential for success.
• It welcomes applications from startups worldwide, focusing on scalable business models with significant revenue potential.

Notable healthtech companies in the current cohort include innovative solutions in medical services scheduling and AI-powered healthcare assistance.

This initiative aligns perfectly with Milwaukee's emerging status as a Midwest tech hub, supported by substantial investments in AI and 5G infrastructure.

Northwestern Mutual continues to revolutionize Milwaukee's tech landscape through strategic innovation and investment. As revealed in their latest tech initiatives, the Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute (NMDSI) has awarded over $700,000 in research funding to university experts, demonstrating their commitment to advancing data science and technology learning.

The company's evolution goes beyond traditional financial services, with their AI implementation strategy aiming to issue half of its policies through AI-assisted decisions, showcasing a practical embrace of emerging technologies.

The impact is tangible - Northwestern Mutual has grown to serve more than 5 million clients while maintaining its position as a tech innovator.

Their partnership with Marquette University and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee received a renewed $35 million investment in 2023, focusing on research, talent development, and community growth.

This collaboration has created a robust pipeline of tech talent and established southeastern Wisconsin as an emerging hub for data science innovation.

The company's commitment to innovation extends to their workforce development, with plans to recruit 5,000 new financial professionals in 2025.

Their approach combines cutting-edge technology with human expertise, utilizing tools like Next Best Action (NBA) systems to enhance adviser success and client service delivery.

Through these initiatives, Northwestern Mutual isn't just transforming its own operations - it's actively shaping Milwaukee's future as a prominent tech hub, creating opportunities for both seasoned professionals and emerging talent in the region.

Milwaukee's tech scene is reaching new heights in 2025, with the launch of Synapse, a game-changing AI initiative targeting mid-market manufacturers.

This strategic move builds on the success of recent AI Manufacturing Workshops, which identified 32 key use cases for artificial intelligence in manufacturing.

The tech momentum continues with Summerfest Tech 2025, scheduled for June 23-26, which will bring together over 2,000 attendees from 37 states and 12 countries to explore AI, advanced manufacturing, healthcare tech, and sustainability innovations.

The event's free core programming makes cutting-edge tech knowledge accessible to everyone. The city's transformation into a tech powerhouse is further evidenced by the presence of 2,360 tech companies, with new opportunities emerging through partnerships between educational institutions and industry leaders.

The MKE Tech Hub Coalition's initiatives are creating a robust ecosystem where innovation thrives, supported by technical skilling opportunities and practical AI adoption strategies.

This collaborative approach between industry veterans, educational institutions, and technology partners is setting Milwaukee apart as a center for practical technology innovation, particularly in manufacturing and AI implementation.

With success metrics focused on business outcomes, organizational capabilities, and regional economic growth, Milwaukee's tech sector is poised for substantial expansion through 2025 and beyond.

Milwaukee's tech education landscape is transforming in 2025, with M³'s innovative partnership between MATC, Milwaukee Public Schools, and UW-Milwaukee leading the charge in creating accessible pathways to tech careers.

The tech sector's contribution of $8.1 billion to the local economy has catalyzed educational initiatives, with 11,100 new tech jobs added since 2023 driving demand for skilled professionals.

• Milwaukee Tool's Technology Development Program exemplifies industry engagement, offering comprehensive rotations in enterprise security, data analytics, and software engineering.
• The city's educational institutions are responding to market needs, with twelve colleges and universities providing world-class research opportunities and dynamic educational programs.

MSOE's AI Learning Center, set to open in 2027, will support over 20,000 tech students citywide, while MATC maintains a remarkable 93% employment rate for graduates within six months.

The emergence of specialized programs in cybersecurity, data visualization, and user interaction design reflects the industry's evolving demands, with entry-level positions averaging $70,000 annually.

This educational ecosystem is particularly vital given the projected 1,500 specialist shortage in cybersecurity and the expected 8% job growth rate.

Local initiatives like Technology United and Summerfest Tech 2025 complement formal education by providing networking opportunities and hands-on technical training, focusing on AI, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare tech.

These combined efforts are creating a robust pipeline of talent, ensuring Milwaukee's tech workforce remains competitive and innovative while addressing the industry's growing needs.

Milwaukee's tech landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth, with projected growth of 30,000 new tech jobs and an $8.1 billion economic contribution to the local economy.

The MKE Tech Hub Coalition serves as the unifying force behind this transformation, connecting over 2,360 tech companies across the region. Community initiatives are gaining serious momentum, as evidenced by the recent $2.4 million Council approval for transformation fund initiatives, supporting everything from legal aid to housing rehabilitation projects.

The tech ecosystem's growth is further amplified by major development projects, including the Robert D. Kern Engineering Innovation Center, a $76.5 million AI-focused facility in downtown Milwaukee.

Educational institutions are stepping up, with MSOE and MATC leading tech education through a $12.6 billion investment, resulting in a remarkable 93% employment rate for graduates within six months.

The city's commitment to innovation is evident in its major investments in 5G infrastructure, with AT&T and U.S. Cellular contributing over $43.5 million to enhance network capabilities.

This technological renaissance is complemented by sustainability efforts, highlighted through initiatives like GreenFest MKE 2025, where companies such as Rockwell Automation are pioneering eco-friendly practices.

The transformation is particularly visible in the startup ecosystem, centered around innovation hubs like Ward4, which provides crucial coworking space for entrepreneurs.

Entry-level tech positions now average $70,000 in salary, making Milwaukee an increasingly attractive destination for tech talent.

Milwaukee's tech scene is experiencing a significant transformation in its approach to diversity and inclusion. The Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition's ambitious goal to double tech workers by 2025 hinges on connecting with diverse populations, addressing the current predominance of white males in the sector.

Recent data shows the tech sector has contributed $8.1 billion to the local economy, with 11,100 new tech jobs added since 2023. However, Milwaukee ranks 89th among major cities for overall diversity, highlighting the urgent need for improvement in economic and educational equity.

To address these challenges, Wisconsin Tech Month launched targeted initiatives, including networking events and career fairs specifically designed to create opportunities for Black and brown professionals in STEM, where they currently represent only 9% and 8% of the workforce respectively.

• Girls Who Code's free afterschool programs focus on young girls learning coding skills.
• Lift Up MKE supports women returning to tech careers with training and job placements.
• Islands of Brilliance teaches tech skills to students on the autism spectrum, enhancing their job opportunities.

Major employers like Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual, and Milwaukee Tool have committed to increasing African American and Hispanic employment by 15% and management-level positions by 25% by 2025.

The city's tech community is actively collaborating through initiatives like Summerfest Tech, which draws 2,000 attendees from 37 states, fostering connections and opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Success in these diversity efforts is crucial, as Milwaukee aims to sustain its projected growth of 30,000 new tech jobs and $9 billion economic impact over the next decade.

Milwaukee's tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with over 2,360 tech companies now calling the city home.

The industry is projected to create 30,000 new jobs and generate a $9 billion economic impact over the next decade. Major infrastructure investments are reshaping the landscape, with AT&T and U.S. Cellular pouring over $43.5 million into 5G connectivity enhancements.

The MKE Tech Hub Coalition's launch of Synapse represents a game-changing initiative, helping local manufacturers adopt AI technology through strategic partnerships and accessible resources.

Entry-level tech positions now average $70,000 annually, while specialized roles like Cloud Architects can earn up to $201,572. The recently announced Robert D. Kern Engineering Innovation Center, a $76.5 million AI-focused facility, will further cement Milwaukee's position as a Midwest tech hub.

Education remains a priority, with MSOE and MATC leading the charge through a $12.6 billion investment in tech education.

The upcoming Summerfest Tech 2025, scheduled for June 23-26, will focus on AI, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare tech innovation, expecting attendees from 37 states.

This surge in development is complemented by sustainability initiatives, including GreenFest MKE 2025, highlighting Milwaukee's commitment to combining technological advancement with environmental responsibility.

Local startup support continues to grow, with specialized accelerators and networking events fostering innovation across various sectors.