Agriculture plays a critical role in Florida’s economy, second only to tourism. It provides over 133,000 jobs and supports communities across the state. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is advancing agricultural innovation by establishing a 40,000-square-foot AI hub at the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Hillsborough County.
The Center for Applied Artificial Intelligence in Agriculture will combine world-class research, extension, and development efforts. On Nov. 7, UF officials will break ground on the AI center, coinciding with the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center’s centennial celebration.
Scott Angle, UF’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources, emphasized that the new facility represents a collaboration between academia, industry, and government. This partnership will enhance Florida’s capacity to contribute to global food security.
AI technology and robotics can replace manual labor on farms, increasing job opportunities and fostering economic growth. The UF AI hub will focus on enhancing crop resilience, using fewer chemicals, and boosting yields for Florida’s farmers. AI innovations can also lead to startups that will further support the state’s economy.
UF/IFAS researchers will work alongside AI experts to design solutions for pest and disease resistance, improving crop production while minimizing chemical use. Gulf Coast Research and Education Center Director Jack Rechcigl noted that AI is the key to addressing the numerous challenges farmers face.
The center’s plans include state-of-the-art facilities for designing agricultural robots, as well as spaces that foster collaboration on AI-driven agricultural research. The facility aims to employ 100 people, including AI specialists and support staff, further expanding the state’s tech workforce.
The AI center will also offer economic benefits to Hillsborough and Manatee counties, with more tech-focused jobs, a stronger agricultural sector, and new industries emerging from research advancements. Additionally, UF/IFAS plans to provide training for farmers, students, and the public.
UF/IFAS has led the university’s AI initiatives, with significant strides already made in AI applications for agriculture. Researchers like Kevin Wang and Dana Choi are already using AI to improve crop breeding and farming predictions.
The center’s AI research and technological developments are set to enhance Florida’s agricultural industries, helping farmers stay competitive in a global market. “AI-driven technologies are critical for the survival of our agricultural industries,” said Rechcigl, highlighting the wide-ranging economic impact of the new facility.
