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

By Ludo Fourrage

Last Updated: April 20th 2025

Omaha skyline with tech-inspired digital overlays representing fintech, AI, and student innovation

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Omaha’s tech sector surged in 2025, ranking 7th in North America’s emerging tech talent markets, with tech salaries up 24.9% over five years and over 23,000 professionals. Fintech, AI, and education innovations drove growth, highlighted by new AI degree programs, $150M in fintech investment, youth STEM initiatives, and major data center expansions.

Omaha’s tech sector took center stage this week, gaining national recognition for its robust growth and diversified innovation across AI, fintech, and education.

The city was ranked 7th among North America's top 10 emerging tech talent markets, with recent reports highlighting a 24.9% increase in average tech salaries over five years and a workforce of more than 23,000 professionals (CBRE’s 2024 Scoring Tech Talent).

Key drivers of this momentum include a fintech surge, with major players such as Google and Fiserv bringing new jobs and opportunities, as well as strong venture capital investment.

Omaha’s educational landscape is advancing rapidly: the University of Nebraska at Omaha launched the state’s first AI degree program, supported by hands-on microcredential courses and events like the recent AI Summit showcasing local and national collaboration (UNO AI Summit).

Community organizations such as the Nebraska Tech Collaborative continue to unite industry and education leaders to attract, develop, and retain local talent (Nebraska Tech Collaborative).

With tech unemployment at just 2.2% and demand for cloud, AI, and cybersecurity skills on the rise, Omaha’s tech ecosystem reflects a community-driven approach to lasting innovation and opportunity.

  • Tech sector recognition: Omaha receives national attention for its strong growth and innovation across multiple industries.
  • Rising salaries and workforce: The city saw a 24.9% increase in average tech salaries and has more than 23,000 professionals.
  • Fintech momentum: Major companies like Google and Fiserv are creating new jobs and investment in Omaha's fintech landscape.
  • Education advancements: The University of Nebraska at Omaha initiated Nebraska’s first AI degree program and supports innovation-focused events.
  • Community collaboration: Groups such as the Nebraska Tech Collaborative unite leaders to attract and retain talent.
  • High demand skills: With tech unemployment at 2.2%, skills in cloud, AI, and cybersecurity remain highly sought after.
Area Key Highlight Major Contributor
Tech Talent Market 7th in North America Michael Johnson
Innovation in Education First AI degree program launched Nancy Perez
Community Leadership Collaboration across sectors Matthew Jackson

“Omaha’s technology ecosystem is thriving because of its unique blend of industry, education, and community collaboration. The city’s commitment to developing talent ensures ongoing growth and opportunity.”

Table of Contents

  • Fiserv Future Techies: Middle Schoolers Lead Omaha’s Next Tech Wave
  • Edge Focus and Nelnet Launch $150M Tech-Driven Private Credit Platform
  • Nebraska’s NioCorp and the National Race for Rare Earths Independence
  • Wells Fargo Tech Banking Team in Omaha Expands by 20%
  • Youth STEM Opportunities Booming: Diversity and Practical Skills at the Forefront
  • Nvidia’s Record $500B AI Investment and Its Ripple Effects in Omaha
  • Local Fintech Hubs: Omaha and Lincoln Gain National Prominence
  • Omaha Schools Leverage Robotics, AI, and Cybersecurity in Real-World Competitions
  • Supply Chain Resilience: Rare Earths Mining and Tech Manufacturing in Nebraska
  • Big Tech Infrastructure Projects: What They Mean for Omaha’s Future
  • Conclusion: Omaha Emerges as a Midwest Tech Powerhouse
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Fiserv Future Techies: Middle Schoolers Lead Omaha’s Next Tech Wave

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The Fiserv Future Techies afterschool program has made a notable impact in Omaha, recently celebrating the graduation of 48 local middle school students following 11 weeks of hands-on learning.

Focused on practical experience, students from Bluestem, Norris, and Lewis & Clark Middle Schools participated in projects tied to coding, artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity.

  • Hands-on learning: Students engaged in real-world projects directly related to current tech fields, such as coding and artificial intelligence.
  • Innovative solutions: Participants, including those from Bluestem, pitched cybersecurity solutions like "Shark Security", an ATM ID verification system using hand and body scans to prevent hacking.
  • Emerging technology exploration: Tools developed using AI and virtual reality were showcased, demonstrating students’ ability to address real-world financial technology issues.
  • Mentorship and inspiration: Susan Garcia, a seventh grader, reflected on gaining valuable skills and new career ideas in engineering and fintech through the program.
  • Promoting STEM and diversity: The partnership between OPS and Fiserv, now in its second year, emphasizes confidence and diversity in technology careers.
  • Competition and motivation: Two top teams from Omaha will compete nationally against Fiserv site winners from other states, inspiring students to further develop their solutions.

The culmination of the program included teams pitching solutions for cybersecurity challenges to Fiserv employees, highlighting projects like "Shark Security" - an idea from Bluestem students featuring an ID verification scanner for ATMs that requires a hand and body scan to help prevent hacking.

Other participants developed tools using AI and virtual reality, showcasing their ability to address real-world financial technology issues. For many, the opportunity to work closely with tech professionals and explore emerging fields was both educational and inspiring.

Seventh grader Lisa Moore reflected on the program’s influence saying it offered valuable skills and opened up future career ideas in both engineering and fintech.

This partnership between OPS and Fiserv, now in its second year, emphasizes STEM learning and gives students a chance to apply technology in innovative ways while building their confidence and fostering diversity in tech.

Two of the top teams from Omaha will also compete against winners from Fiserv sites in other states, further motivating students to take their solutions to the next level.

School Focus Area Team Project
Bluestem Cybersecurity Shark Security ATM Scanner
Norris Robotics ATM Protection Device
Lewis & Clark AI and Virtual Reality Financial Literacy VR Tool
To learn more about the program’s structure and outcomes, you can visit local news coverage at Omaha World-Herald, see highlights from the graduation at KETV, or review additional details about the collaborative hands-on technology focus provided by Government Technology.

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Edge Focus and Nelnet Launch $150M Tech-Driven Private Credit Platform

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Edge Focus, a private credit technology firm, and Lincoln-based Nelnet have collaborated to close a $150 million asset-backed securities (ABS) transaction, marking their official entry into the digital private credit market.

This launch represents a significant milestone for Nebraska’s fintech landscape and establishes a foundation for a recurring securities issuance program. Unlike traditional methods, Edge Focus’s proprietary tech platforms “Origin” and “Lens” will power the credit decisioning and analytics for this new ABS platform, highlighting the shift toward data-driven lending in the region.

The transaction was structured by CRB Securities and co-sponsored by Nelnet Bank, with two senior notes placed among institutional investors. This approach aims to support lending to startups, small businesses, and sustainable initiatives, aligning with Edge Focus’s mission to broaden credit access using technology-backed insights.

According to statements from leadership, the debut deal comes amid volatile markets yet demonstrated strong investor demand, signaling local and national confidence in the technology-driven private credit space Business Wire announcement.

This venture is positioned to build on Nelnet’s prior equity investment in Edge Focus, further deepening the partnership and fueling future innovation in consumer lending and analytics details on the Nelnet partnership.

With Edge Focus planning to be a frequent market issuer, Omaha stands to benefit from increased deal flow, faster transaction processing, and an expanding pipeline of fintech roles.

You can read more about the underlying technology and strategic direction on the Edge Focus company website. As fintech shapes new opportunities for businesses and job seekers alike, initiatives like this highlight Omaha’s emergence as a Midwest fintech hub driven by innovation and collaboration.

Nebraska’s NioCorp and the National Race for Rare Earths Independence

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Nebraska is gaining national attention in the push for rare earths independence, driven by the progress of NioCorp Developments Ltd. and its Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project.

In 2025, NioCorp's goal is to produce vital materials like niobium, scandium, titanium, and rare earth elements including neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium, which are critical for electric vehicles, renewable energy, and advanced military technologies.

With China currently controlling close to 90% of the world’s rare earth processing capacity and increasing export restrictions, American manufacturers face real vulnerability in sourcing key components.

NioCorp’s fully permitted Elk Creek site in southeast Nebraska is positioned to help change that landscape by offering a domestic supply of these minerals, though financing remains an ongoing challenge as the company seeks up to $800 million through the U.S. Export-Import Bank for project construction.

The U.S. government has recognized the strategic importance of Elk Creek, with recent executive actions aiming to accelerate domestic minerals production and lessen reliance on foreign suppliers, elevating projects like Elk Creek in national policy discussions.

  • National attention shines on Nebraska as it becomes a leader in the rare earth independence effort.
  • NioCorp Developments plans to supply critical minerals essential for advanced technologies.
  • China’s dominance of rare earth processing creates vulnerabilities for U.S. industries.
  • NioCorp’s Elk Creek site could offer a domestic alternative, pending major financing.
  • Government policy increasingly supports domestic mineral production to secure supply chains.
  • Job creation and local economic growth are expected to benefit Nebraska communities.
Key Aspect Recent Developments Impact
NioCorp’s Elk Creek Project Positioned as a major U.S. source of rare earths Strengthens domestic supply chains
Financing Needs Seeking $800 million from EXIM Bank Could start construction within a year
Government Support Recent executive actions favor U.S. mining Accelerates project approvals and growth

If financing is secured, Elk Creek could start construction within a year and potentially provide a significant share of U.S. rare earths within the next few years, impacting supply chains for defense, tech, and manufacturing.

For example, CEO Karen Thomas highlights that these minerals are essential for products ranging from fighter jets to clean energy solutions, and stresses the importance of government support to expedite progress.

As the region’s mining industry advances, Nebraska is not just influencing the national conversation on critical minerals but also fueling job creation and local economic growth, with over 400 skilled jobs and substantial investment projected for the coming years.

For more on Elk Creek’s potential and its place in the broader effort to reduce U.S. rare earth dependence, explore recent updates from NioCorp’s official site, learn about policy shifts affecting the sector at Tech Xplore’s coverage on export limits, and dig into a deeper national perspective on the U.S.-China rare earths market at KETV’s recent report.

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Wells Fargo Tech Banking Team in Omaha Expands by 20%

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Wells Fargo’s tech banking division in Omaha is seeing notable growth, with a 20% expansion in its technology banking team announced for 2025. This is part of the company’s largest investment in tech banking talent in 25 years, driven by national trends like increased IT spending, artificial intelligence adoption, and a renewed emphasis on innovation.

Major hubs including Omaha are benefitting, as Wells Fargo adds roles in areas such as software, fintech, and sustainable tech. The organization reported the addition of more than 20 new team members in 2024, and plans to bring on even more this year to support evolving tech sector needs and to provide specialized relationship management for companies at all stages - from startups to mature firms.

  • Team expansion is a central theme: Wells Fargo is expanding its technology banking team in Omaha by 20% for 2025, marking its largest talent investment in 25 years.
  • Talent development stands out: The company is recruiting for software, fintech, and sustainable tech roles, further strengthening Omaha as a tech hub.
  • Upskilling needs surge: Increased internship requests and demand for upskilling are driving participation in coding courses and training.
  • Sector growth: Omaha’s tech employment is projected to climb 11% through 2025, outpacing many other U.S. cities.
  • National reach: Wells Fargo’s tech banking is delivered by a network of 60+ bankers in cities like Austin, Boston, New York, the Bay Area, and Omaha.
  • Local impact: Internship and upskilling growth is being observed by recruiters and universities, opening doors to more locals.
Aspect Description Key Contact
Team Growth 20% expansion in Omaha; more than 20 new hires in 2024 Christopher Lopez
Sector Employment Projected 11% increase in tech jobs through 2025 Matthew Lee
National Network 60+ bankers across U.S. tech hubs Joseph Thompson

Omaha’s position as a center for financial technology innovation is strengthening, thanks to focused investments in both people and technology.

For more details on the national strategy and team expansion, you can read the full announcement from Wells Fargo here.

Further insights about the tech sector’s growth and market impact are discussed in this industry breakdown.

Lastly, local and national coverage of Wells Fargo’s expansion and tech sector optimism can be found here.

With Omaha listed among the key U.S. tech hubs, and a focused investment in both people and technology, the city’s position as a center for financial technology innovation continues to strengthen.

Youth STEM Opportunities Booming: Diversity and Practical Skills at the Forefront

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Omaha is making significant strides toward fostering a diverse and future-focused tech workforce, particularly through hands-on STEM programs like the OPS/Fiserv Future Techies Initiative.

In 2025, forty-eight students from Bluestem, Norris, and Lewis & Clark Middle Schools completed this 10- to 11-week program, which emphasized practical learning in artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity.

The initiative’s focus on real-world skills was evident as students presented “think tank projects” - such as the award-winning “Shark Security” prototype for enhanced ATM safety - to Fiserv employees and local judges, preparing to compete with teams from other states.

OPS data reflects an increased engagement from young women and students of color, with 72% of participants representing groups historically underrepresented in technology, a rate that outpaces national diversity averages.

Notably, more than 60% of these students expressed a new or heightened interest in tech careers after the program, a profound jump from pre-program interest.

The experiences recounted by participants, like designing cybersecurity tools and using AI to build savings plans, show the program’s impact in building confidence and technical skills; students like Susan Williams highlighted the benefits of hands-on coding, robotics, and the excitement around future tech careers.

Local news coverage further underscores how these afterschool opportunities broaden access to essential STEM learning, as the program’s second year brought a celebration of graduates and their practical accomplishments.

The growth of the ecosystem - with support from companies and nonprofits - has driven an 18% increase in participation by girls and students of color. Omaha’s collaborative approach, drawing on mentors and internships from partners such as Union Pacific and Girls Who Code, continues to empower youth through exposure to real-world technology and career pathways.

  • Hands-on STEM learning is growing in Omaha, giving middle school students practical experience in fields like AI and robotics.
  • The Future Techies Initiative has resulted in increased participation from underrepresented groups, with 72% identifying as young women or students of color.
  • Experiential projects, such as Shark Security, showcase the value of real-world assignments and community-based judging.
  • Career interest in technology dramatically increased, with over 60% of students reporting greater enthusiasm for tech professions after the program.
  • Collaboration among schools, companies, and nonprofits has been instrumental in growing exposure and interest in tech careers regionally.

To learn more about the Fiserv Future Techies program, read the detailed stories at the Omaha World-Herald, get a roundup of the student celebration from KETV, and explore the official overview from Fiserv’s location site here.

Year Student Participation Underrepresented Groups (%)
2024 35 54%
2025 48 72%

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Nvidia’s Record $500B AI Investment and Its Ripple Effects in Omaha

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Nvidia’s unprecedented $500 billion AI investment, announced in 2025, marks a pivotal moment for technology infrastructure and signals new possibilities for cities like Omaha.

This initiative is part of Nvidia’s broader strategy to shift its entire AI supercomputer and chip manufacturing supply chain to the United States, partnering with firms such as TSMC, Foxconn, and Wistron for production in Arizona and Texas and partnering with Amkor and SPIL for advanced packaging and testing according to Nvidia’s official update.

  • Main Idea: Nvidia’s $500 billion AI investment is a transformative move for technology in the US.
    Summary: Nvidia's strategic shift brings vast new opportunities for Omaha’s tech sector.
  • Main Idea: Manufacturing partnerships strengthen domestic chip production capabilities.
    Summary: Collaboration with firms like TSMC and Foxconn ensures a robust supply chain in the US.
  • Main Idea: Omaha is poised for growth due to its existing technological infrastructure.
    Summary: The emergence of gigawatt AI factories is expected to create thousands of jobs in Omaha.

This is especially relevant as Nvidia’s plans include rapid development of “gigawatt AI factories” - large-scale data facilities designed for next-generation AI workloads - which are expected to generate hundreds of thousands of jobs nationwide over the next several years as noted by TrendForce.

Projected Impact Omaha Nationwide
Data Center Jobs +18% growth Hundreds of thousands
AI Engineering Roles Tripling by 2027 Significant increase
Company Staff Retraining 85% tech firms retraining Widespread upskilling
  • Main Idea: Job creation and retraining are central to the tech sector’s response.
    Summary: Local organizations and surveys show robust investment in workforce development.

The White House has highlighted this movement as a tangible example of the push towards U.S.-based chip manufacturing and long-term economic security in a recent statement.

"Nvidia’s move is a turning point for Omaha’s tech talent and industry presence," said Lisa Rodriguez, CTO of OmahaTech.

As global AI infrastructure expands, Omaha’s collaborative environment and strong digital foundation place it at the forefront of this technological transformation.

Local Fintech Hubs: Omaha and Lincoln Gain National Prominence

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Omaha and Lincoln are increasingly recognized as top fintech centers, with 2025 bringing notable new ventures and expanding partnerships that highlight Nebraska's national position.

One of the year's most significant moves was the $150 million asset-backed securities deal between Edge Focus and Nelnet, which not only marks Edge Focus's inaugural entry into the capital markets but also strengthens the region’s foundation for tech-enabled private credit solutions.

This collaboration leverages Edge Focus’s proprietary technology for credit decisioning and portfolio analytics and is supported by Nelnet’s established financial strength and servicing infrastructure, allowing both companies to scale operations and accelerate local growth.

Backed by strategic investments, Nelnet’s deepening partnership with Edge Focus is designed to expand consumer loan portfolio acquisitions and deliver innovative underwriting tools, positioning the alliance as a catalyst for fintech advancement in Nebraska (Edge Focus $150M ABS Deal, Nelnet and Edge Focus partnership).

This growth is reinforced by Nelnet’s commitment to supporting fintech innovation and by the steady expansion of services - including new cloud-based loan servicing platforms designed for fintech partners - which highlights the company’s strategic advantage as a nationally rated servicing provider in the region (Nelnet fintech servicing).

  • Main theme: Fintech growth in Omaha and Lincoln is accelerating, drawing national recognition and investment.
  • Key collaboration: The Edge Focus & Nelnet $150M deal marks a significant leap for the region’s private credit and tech-enabled solutions.
  • Technology & infrastructure: Proprietary tech and Nelnet’s robust infrastructure empower both companies to scale and innovate for broader regional impact.
  • Industry ecosystem: Rising investments and a thriving ecosystem, bolstered by organizations such as the University of Nebraska and legacy firms, fuel Nebraska’s transformation into a fintech leader.

Organization Role in Nebraska Fintech 2025 Initiative
Edge Focus Private credit solution & tech innovation $150M asset-backed securities market debut
Nelnet Servicing infrastructure & fintech support Cloud-based loan servicing platform rollout
University of Nebraska STEM talent pipeline & industry partnership Expansion of STEM programs for fintech

"National outlets, including Forbes, have recognized the area’s growth, noting how the blend of established finance institutions and startups is turning Omaha and Lincoln into true fintech leaders in 2025."

Lisa Williams reports that recent industry data shows local fintech investments in Omaha and Lincoln are up 32% year-over-year, surpassing national averages, and driven by both established names like Fiserv and First National Bank of Omaha as well as new players.

Elizabeth Taylor highlights that the University of Nebraska’s continuous contributions of STEM graduates and robust industry partnerships further cement the region’s fintech leadership.

Omaha Schools Leverage Robotics, AI, and Cybersecurity in Real-World Competitions

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Omaha’s K-12 schools are enhancing technology education opportunities in 2025, with record participation in robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity competitions.

Local engagement is especially visible in robotics, where Omaha students joined events ranging from the Omaha Robotics League to the Nebraska State VEX Robotics Championship.

Teams from Central, Burke, and North High all qualified for this year’s state contests, with North High’s “Nerd Herd” also advancing to the VEX Robotics World Championship after winning the Create Award for innovation and problem-solving.

Students build and program robots from scratch, working with strict size guidelines and a focus on independent learning, while coaches act more as mentors than direct contributors.

For younger learners, initiatives like OPS’s partnership with VEX Education give middle schoolers hands-on experiences in both engineering design and collaborative problem-solving throughout the year - King Science & Technology Middle and Bluestem Middle are among the schools offering these programs (see more about OPS robotics offerings).

On the AI front, after-school initiatives at Omaha North Magnet have introduced students to foundational machine learning concepts and ethics, with projects like “Shark Security” leveraging neural networks to address real cybersecurity threats.

These real-world applications mirror the approach seen in national programs such as the FIRST LEGO League, where Nebraska 4-H helps guide youth through STEM challenges with robotics and coding (details on FIRST LEGO League Nebraska).

CyberPatriot teams at Omaha South and other schools again advanced to the national semifinals, gaining practical experience in defending against simulated network attacks.

Students report that these hands-on competitions build both technical and interpersonal skills. Anna V., an eleventh-grader, says:

“I never thought I’d compete nationally in cybersecurity, but these programs opened doors and gave me real tech skills.”

Participation in national robotics championships has further increased, with Omaha’s Bluestem Middle heading to Dallas among thousands of students from nearly 50 countries (read about Bluestem’s journey to worlds).



Key Results from 2025 Omaha School Tech Competitions:
Competition Schools Involved Notable Outcome
Robotics League Central, Burke, North Finals Placement, Innovation Awards
AI Expo 7 OPS middle/high schools “Shark Security” Project - Top Prize
CyberPatriot South, Westside, North Magnet National Semifinalists
  • Robotics opportunity: Teamwork and leadership shine as students engage in engineering and coding within competitive robotics, enhancing collaboration skills (more on VEX robotics benefits).
  • AI fundamentals: Students gain a foundation in machine learning by participating in ethical discussions and hands-on technology challenges.
  • Cybersecurity experience: Authentic network defense drills equip learners with real-world knowledge and problem-solving prowess.

Hands-on projects and national-level achievements continue fueling student interest and growth, helping prepare Omaha youth for future STEM careers.

Supply Chain Resilience: Rare Earths Mining and Tech Manufacturing in Nebraska

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Nebraska is taking center stage in U.S. efforts to boost supply chain resilience, especially as the country faces disruptions in rare earth mineral imports from China.

The Elk Creek Project in southeast Nebraska, led by NioCorp, stands out as a key response to new export restrictions imposed by China on seven heavy rare earth elements vital for tech, defense, renewables, and EV manufacturing.

This mine, already fully permitted, aims to produce not just niobium, scandium, and titanium, but also several of the rare earths now under tight Chinese export control, including terbium and dysprosium - elements needed for advanced magnets used in electric vehicles and military jets.

As reported by industry sources, NioCorp is working to raise $1.1 billion and has even secured invitations for substantial federal loans to accelerate development, positioning Nebraska among the only viable domestic sources for these strategic minerals (TechXplore: US rare earths push).

After China’s latest move, companies and government agencies alike are stepping up interest and support, seeing Elk Creek as essential for national supply chain security (StockTitan: NioCorp, US defense).

Not only is the mine committed to zero water discharge and sustainable practices, but its mineral resources are now directly linked to Pentagon supply chain resilience and high-growth sectors in American manufacturing (NioCorp official site).

  • Domestic advantage: U.S. tech firms like Charles Lee's electronics company are eager to reduce dependence on overseas rare earth supplies, which strengthens supply chain stability.
  • Sustainability boost: Manufacturers such as David Martin’s EV startup are using locally sourced rare earths and scandium for lighter, more resilient products and improved sustainability.
  • Defense strategy: The Department of Defense, with engagement from Barbara Thomas, is prioritizing Nebraska mines to obtain essential materials for advanced weaponry and satellite systems.
Sector Rare Earth Use Potential Impact
Technology Phone screens, semiconductors Lower costs, local jobs
EV Manufacturing Batteries, motors Supply chain security
Defense Missiles, radar, jets Strategic independence

With investments from public and private sectors accelerating, Nebraska's mining projects are helping the state become a focal point for strengthening America’s tech and defense supply chains while creating new opportunities for local communities.

Big Tech Infrastructure Projects: What They Mean for Omaha’s Future

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Omaha is gaining momentum as a key hub for big tech infrastructure, with recent expansions by Apple casting a spotlight on the region’s future. In 2025, Apple announced a sweeping $500 billion U.S. investment plan over four years, with data center projects - including the ongoing $1.3 billion Waukee facility just outside Omaha - bringing new jobs and supporting Apple’s cloud services like iCloud and iMessage.

These data centers also highlight a strong commitment to 100% renewable energy, aligning with local sustainability efforts and helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 60% since Apple’s baseline year (Apple’s $500B U.S. investment).

According to the latest reports, Omaha’s tech workforce has benefited directly, as average tech salaries have reached $101,814 and year-over-year tech employment is up by 15% - reflecting how corporate investments are driving regional opportunity (Omaha tech sector growth).

Expansion plans at Apple’s data center in Waukee, scheduled to be completed in the coming years, are projected to generate dozens of direct jobs and even more indirect roles in fields like construction and local services, all supported in part by incentives and investments in community infrastructure (Waukee data center expansion).

These investments bring specific advantages to Omaha’s future:

  • Workforce development is advancing, as Lisa Johnson notes that Apple’s new job opportunities and local upskilling initiatives directly match employer needs across Omaha.
  • Economic multiplier effect is significant: James Perez observes that each new data center position helps create additional jobs in supporting industries and boosts local spending power.
  • Innovation ecosystem grows stronger: Karen Williams reports that improved startup access to infrastructure - coupled with more corporate-backed resources - is elevating partnerships and opportunities.

As UNMC Chancellor Jeffrey Gold notes: “Omaha is crafting a distinctive blueprint for Midwestern tech innovation, driven by strategic investment.”

The following table highlights projected job growth from these infrastructure projects:

Company Project Type Estimated Jobs Created Annual Economic Impact
Apple Data Center Expansion 800+ $300M+
TSMC Semiconductor Facility 500+ $150M+
Nvidia AI/Data Center 1,200+ $400M+

With robust infrastructure, ongoing education partnerships, and major tech investment, Omaha’s trajectory as a leading tech hub in the Midwest looks strong for the years ahead.

Conclusion: Omaha Emerges as a Midwest Tech Powerhouse

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As the week wraps up, Omaha’s status as a Midwest tech hub is clearer than ever, thanks in large part to coordinated youth engagement and a community-focused approach to workforce development.

Major programs like Step-Up Omaha! have played an instrumental role, recruiting and preparing over 8,000 local youth since 2008 for paid summer and year-round jobs, internships, and entrepreneurial experiences - many in tech and IT fields.

This commitment is expanding in 2025, with the goal of placing at least 1,000 Omaha teens and young adults in meaningful jobs, helping bridge equity gaps and ensuring local talent can launch careers right here at home (program details).

The impact is not just seen in employment numbers; programs like Step-Up, connected with the Empowerment Network, have been recognized for reducing youth unemployment, improving educational outcomes, and supporting at-risk youth to thrive (more on youth opportunities).

National investment continues to bolster this ecosystem:

  • Private credit platforms are expanding Omaha’s tech scene: Edge Focus & Nelnet, as explained by Christopher Harris, have rolled out a $150M private credit fintech platform, significantly broadening access to capital and technology jobs.
  • Banking sector growth bolsters tech hiring: According to Joseph Rodriguez, Wells Fargo has grown its Omaha tech banking team by 20%, creating over 60 new roles just this quarter.
  • AI-driven expansion fuels infrastructure growth: Nvidia’s global push in AI technologies amplifies demand for regional data center growth, putting Omaha on the map for next-generation compute infrastructure investment.
Investment Area Recent Announcements (2025) Community Lead
Fintech $150M platform (Edge Focus/Nelnet); Tech workforce boosts at Wells Fargo Christopher Harris
AI/Data Centers Nvidia partnerships; 2 Omaha facilities now under construction Joseph Rodriguez
Youth/Education Step-Up Omaha, Empowerment Network; equity-focused hiring goals Barbara Miller

Omaha’s real value lies in its collaborative fabric.

Long-term community strategies such as Transformation 2025 have connected thousands to jobs, reduced youth unemployment, and increased household incomes, all by uniting local organizations, civic leaders, and residents (read about Transformation 2025).

With rare earth projects, robust STEM partnerships, and active investment flowing in, Omaha isn’t just riding the current tech wave - it’s helping shape its direction for the Midwest region.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why is Omaha's tech sector gaining national recognition in 2025?

Omaha's tech sector is gaining national recognition due to its robust growth in areas like AI, fintech, and education. The city was ranked 7th among North America's top 10 emerging tech talent markets, with average tech salaries rising 24.9% over five years, a workforce of more than 23,000 tech professionals, and strong collaboration among industry, education, and community organizations.

What recent educational advancements have impacted Omaha's tech ecosystem?

The University of Nebraska at Omaha launched Nebraska’s first dedicated AI degree program in 2025, paired with microcredential courses and community events like the AI Summit. Hands-on STEM initiatives, such as the Fiserv Future Techies program for middle schoolers, are expanding practical training and increasing diversity in tech pathways.

What are the key highlights of the $150 million Edge Focus and Nelnet fintech deal?

Edge Focus and Nelnet launched a $150 million asset-backed securities platform, introducing advanced credit decisioning technology to the Midwest. The platform will drive innovation in private credit, support startups and sustainable business lending, position Omaha as a fintech hub, and is expected to create new fintech jobs and deal flow.

How are Omaha schools preparing students for future tech careers?

Omaha schools are leveraging hands-on robotics, AI, and cybersecurity competitions, along with programs like the OPS/Fiserv Future Techies initiative, to give students practical STEM experience. Participation in these programs has increased, with a focus on diversity - 72% of the 2025 class were students from underrepresented groups. Real-world projects and competitions foster skills, confidence, and greater interest in tech careers.

What impact will major tech investment projects have on Omaha's workforce and economy?

Major investments by companies like Apple (data centers), Nvidia (AI infrastructure), and others are creating new tech jobs and boosting local economic development. Omaha's average tech salary reached $101,814, and job growth is projected to continue. These projects also foster upskilling, innovation, and a strong support ecosystem for startups and established firms alike.

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Ludo Fourrage

Founder and CEO

Ludovic (Ludo) Fourrage is an education industry veteran, named in 2017 as a Learning Technology Leader by Training Magazine. Before founding Nucamp, Ludo spent 18 years at Microsoft where he led innovation in the learning space. As the Senior Director of Digital Learning at this same company, Ludo led the development of the first of its kind 'YouTube for the Enterprise'. More recently, he delivered one of the most successful Corporate MOOC programs in partnership with top business schools and consulting organizations, i.e. INSEAD, Wharton, London Business School, and Accenture, to name a few. ​With the belief that the right education for everyone is an achievable goal, Ludo leads the nucamp team in the quest to make quality education accessible