North Carolina Seizes AI Opportunity | Winston–Salem News

North Carolina’s Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley is rallying the state to seize its moment in the AI boom—not just as a user, but as a builder and leader. He envisions North Carolina playing a pivotal role, likening the opportunity to a gold rush where states can either own the mine or supply the tools. Currently, the state is focused on “picks and shovels”—supporting companies that build AI infrastructure like data center components—with local firms already showing promise. Yet, as counties like Yadkin and Alamance pause new data center projects amid community concerns, the debate intensifies over how to balance growth with local needs. Lilley urges leaders to act strategically, leveraging North Carolina’s unique assets to secure a major stake in the global AI economy—before it’s too late. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/f2704663c85a5bd5