Amazon Web Services (AWS), with the backing of local officials, has announced a planned investment of approximately $11 billion to bolster its infrastructure in Georgia. The goal is to support advanced cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, marking continued growth for the state as a technology hub. This significant investment is projected to generate at least 550 new high-skilled jobs.
Generative AI is fueling increased demand for sophisticated cloud infrastructure and computing power. AWS’s investments will help drive the future of AI, starting with data centers in Georgia. AWS data centers are designed to efficiently run GPUs (graphics processing units) for both traditional workloads and AI/machine learning models. This implementation of state-of-the-art AI infrastructure is set to position Georgia as a center for technical innovation.
For over a decade, Amazon has helped drive Georgia’s economic expansion, investing $18.5 billion in the state since 2010 and boosting the state’s gross domestic product by $20.1 billion. The most current expansion demonstrates the state’s vibrant business environment and skilled workforce. Thanks to these assets, Amazon is currently supporting 34,000 full- and part-time positions as well as 44,700 indirect jobs. AWS’s new investment is expected to create hundreds of new, direct AWS jobs in technical fields, including data center engineers, network specialists, engineering operations managers, and security specialists, among other roles. In addition to these jobs, the investment is also predicted to support thousands of local construction jobs and roles in the data center supply chain.
Amazon’s commitment to Georgia extends beyond job creation. Through its Disaster Relief Hub in Atlanta, Amazon teams have teamed up with local organizations to use the company’s logistics and technologies to provide crucial supplies to those in need after storms, like hurricanes Helene and Milton. Since these storms made landfall, Amazon has delivered more than 40 truckloads of over 2.3 million crucial items to support 32 relief organizations. The majority of these items were delivered within 72 hours of the request. Throughout its efforts, Amazon’s on-the-ground Response team utilized AWS technology to establish energy systems, establish connectivity, and conduct drone mapping of over 3,000 acres in remote and heavily impacted areas to support response operations and search-and-rescue missions.
The company has also made considerable investments in renewable energy, including eight solar farms, such as the Bulldog Solar farm, which was built in part by local solar technicians. These projects will create enough carbon-free energy to power roughly 123,000 U.S. homes annually when fully operational.
“AWS’s ongoing infrastructure investments across the United States demonstrate our relentless commitment to powering our customers’ digital innovation through cloud and AI technologies,” stated Roger Wehner, vice president of economic development at AWS. “We are delighted to expand our infrastructure into Georgia with this planned multibillion-dollar investment, which we expect to create more than 550 well-paying jobs and drive significant economic growth for the state. State and local leaders have cultivated an environment that enables companies like AWS to make bold, forward-looking investments. We are excited to deepen our partnership with the state of Georgia and contribute to the continued advancement of its thriving technology landscape.”
AWS is actively involved in the communities where it builds and operates its global infrastructure. The company continuously invests in these areas by supporting local employment, stimulating economic growth, providing valuable skills training and education, and opening up opportunities for local businesses and suppliers.
Among the training programs AWS provides to communities is a Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing Workshop, which trains individuals in new fusion splicing techniques and equipment. In the fall of 2022, dozens of participants finished this program offered at Augusta Technical College. Participants who complete the program receive a fusion splicing certificate and are then immediately connected to employers in search of the in-demand talent in the fiber broadband field.
To benefit communities in the regions in which it creates and runs its global infrastructure, AWS launches long-term, innovative programs that will yield lasting positive impact. AWS will bring its signature science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) education programs to Georgia, including Girls’ Tech Day which motivates women to consider careers in technology and Think Big Spaces, which allows students to gain a hands-on approach to STEAM education.
AWS selects sites based on their robust utility infrastructure, skilled workforce, and opportunities to support public services through increased tax revenue. Ultimately, AWS is committed to making a positive impact in Georgia through job creation, educational partnerships, sustainability initiatives, and community reinvestment.
AWS is pleased to be expanding its operations in Georgia to aid in driving the next generation of cutting-edge technologies, such as AI. The company is grateful for the collaboration of state and local leaders and looks forward to continuing to keep Georgia at the forefront of the digital age.
