NATCHITOCHES, La. — Northwestern State University showcased programs in artificial intelligence, drone technology and advanced manufacturing during the Louisiana Rural Economic Development Summit, hosted Sept. 8-9 by the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana at the Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville.

The two-day summit gathered leaders from business, education, government and technology to discuss opportunities and challenges in rural communities. Speakers included representatives from META, Louisiana Central, the Louisiana Board of Regents and Louisiana Main Street.

NSU highlighted academic and industry partnerships that aim to strengthen Louisiana’s rural workforce.

NSU alumnus Monty Chicola, president of Real Vision Software, joined a panel on artificial intelligence, discussing how AI applications are creating new career pathways in the state.

Connie D. Baker, Advanced Manufacturing Program liaison for RoyOMartin, detailed NSU’s academic and work rotation model, which combines classroom instruction with industry experience to prepare students for high-demand technical roles.

JD Cox, coordinator of NSU’s Advanced Remote and Geospatial Operations Lab, presented on drone technology and its role in workforce training, research and rural development. The program offers skills in aviation safety, logistics and public safety applications, while providing support to industries in central Louisiana.

NSU representatives at the summit included faculty, staff, students and alumni from multiple disciplines, including the College of Nursing and School of Allied Health, the Office of Economic Development and University Advancement, and the ARGO Lab.

The university’s collaboration with the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe includes a five-year memorandum of understanding signed in 2023 to expand educational opportunities, provide scholarships for first-generation students and support adult learners through continuing education. The agreement builds on NSU’s American Indian Opportunity Plan, which provides tuition waivers for citizens of federally recognized tribes.

“The Louisiana Rural Economic Development Summit reflects the collaborative spirit that is vital to the growth of our region,” said Laurie Morrow, executive director of the NSU Foundation. “Northwestern State University is proud to highlight how our programs in artificial intelligence, drones, and advanced manufacturing are preparing Louisiana’s rural workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.”

The summit underscored the role of higher education, industry and community partnerships in strengthening the economic outlook of rural Louisiana.