Governor Josh Stein delivered his first NC Strong Update, outlining recent initiatives in artificial intelligence, economic development, public education, and disaster preparedness.
The Governor signed an executive order to establish an AI Accelerator within the Department of Information Technology and form the North Carolina AI Leadership Council. The Accelerator will act as a center for AI governance, research, partnership, and training in state government. The Leadership Council is tasked with advising the Governor and agencies on making North Carolina a leader in AI literacy and deployment. Secretary of Information Technology Teena Piccione and Secretary of Commerce Lee Lilley will co-chair the council.
“North Carolina will be stronger if we are equipped to embrace the opportunities and take on the challenges that AI presents,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This council will modernize our state’s approach to using AI to enhance government operations, drive economic growth, and improve North Carolinians’ lives.”
“I am honored to chair this council dedicated to strategically harnessing the exponential potential of AI for the benefit of North Carolina’s people, businesses, and communities,” said NCDIT Secretary Teena Piccione, co-chair of the Council. “The AI Accelerator, along with our other initiatives, puts us in a strong position to implement swift and transformative solutions that will not only position North Carolina at the forefront of technological innovation but also uphold the latest standards of data privacy and security.”
“Artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of work and industry, and North Carolina has a unique opportunity to lead in this transformation,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley, co-chair of the Council. “I’m honored to help guide the state’s AI strategy so we can unlock economic growth, attract innovation, and prepare our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.”
On economic development efforts, Governor Stein attended events marking Thermo Fisher Scientific’s new facility opening in Mebane and Genentech’s groundbreaking in Holly Springs. These projects are expected to bring more than 500 jobs to the Triangle region.
The state’s Strategic Economic Development Plan is currently open for public input as officials seek feedback from residents about shaping future priorities.
“Companies choose to plant and grow their roots here in North Carolina – the top state for business – because of our world-class workforce, unmatched quality of life, and top-tier research institutions,” said Governor Josh Stein. “I am proud of our state’s strength, especially in high-demand sectors like biotech and advanced manufacturing, and I look forward to hearing from North Carolinians as we chart our way forward economically.”
“North Carolina upholds its status as a top state for business as companies continue to expand their operations across our state,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “We are a hotbed for economic investment, and this new strategic plan will continue that momentum as more jobs, especially in high-growth, high-tech industries, come to our state.”
Recent national rankings have placed North Carolina at or near the top among states considered favorable for business environments due largely to its workforce advantages. The life sciences sector alone employs over 225,000 people across more than 840 companies statewide. Since January 2025 when Governor Stein took office, CNBC named North Carolina America’s Top State for Business, while over $19 billion in new investments have been announced along with more than 25,000 jobs.
In education policy updates, Governor Stein referenced approval by both NCDPI (Department of Public Instruction) and State Board of Education for a new strategic plan aiming to make public schools best-in-nation by 2030.
“An investment in our students is an investment in our future, and we must build on the strength of our public schools,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This plan sets an ambitious yet achievable vision to make our public schools the best in our nation and set students up for success.”
“Being the best in the nation in public education is central to North Carolina’s strength as a state,” said Superintendent Mo Green. “Our new strategic plan Achieving Educational Excellence is not just an investment in schools—it is an investment in our people. And it is our people—our students, our educators, and our communities—who make North Carolina strong.”
Governor Stein continues calling on lawmakers for full budget passage that includes teacher pay raises while supporting visits across multiple school districts focused on innovative programs.
For disaster readiness efforts this September—the newly proclaimed Preparedness Month—the governor emphasized planning ahead before natural or man-made disasters occur.
“Being prepared can make all the difference for you and your family,” said Governor Josh Stein. “No matter the disaster I urge North Carolinians to take necessary steps: stay calm; listen carefully; keep emergency kits ready.”
He also called on federal authorities regarding Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds so localities can strengthen infrastructure against future threats.
