How Ohio's tech leaders are preparing for what's next
Ohio tech leaders are shifting focus from AI hype to strategic implementation. Key trends for the next 18 months include the rise of agentic AI, the expansion of quantum computing, and the critical need for fiber and energy infrastructure to support growing data center demands.
The tech landscape shifts faster than most organizations can adapt. What matters isn't perfectly predicting the future, it's understanding which changes require action now.
We asked Ohio tech leaders to identify the single technology trend that will have the biggest impact on the state's ecosystem over the next 12-18 months. Their answers reveal where they're placing their bets and what their organizations are preparing for. From AI's impact on core industries to data center infrastructure demands, here's what they see coming.
1. AI's Real Impact on Manufacturing
"The actual impact of Artificial Intelligence on the core sectors in Ohio, such as manufacturing, is still to be determined. The mushrooming of data centers to accommodate this demand is being felt throughout Ohio from small to large communities and we need a coordinated strategy in the state to handle the resource demands that these data centers will require." — Beena Sukumaran, Dean, College of Engineering and Computing, Miami University
2. Quantum Computing's Rapid Advancement
"Quantum computing is rapidly advancing. The acceleration is due in part to a convergence of significant technological breakthroughs, public and private investment, and the emergence of practical applications in high-value industries." — David Brewster, Managing Director, Technology Industry, JobsOhio
3. Data as a True Asset
"It's not a new tool — it's the realization that data is a true asset and AI is simply the catalyst forcing that shift. The Circuit's members are actively moving from the pilots we've been talking about to building solid solutions and sharing the results. We're on the verge of a tipping point where these individual efforts start to connect, creating a more collaborative, insight-driven ecosystem that can accelerate innovation across the region." — Tracy Ruberg, Executive Director, The Circuit
4. True Agentic AI
"The understanding, use cases, and adoption of true agentic AI. This will drive operational efficiencies and growth of small and medium businesses, and the IT consultants to assist them." — Baiju R. Shah, CEO, Greater Cleveland Partnership
5. Thinking With AI, Not Just Using It
"The most impactful trend is the shift from passive prompting to actively 'Thinking With' and 'Building With' AI as a strategic co-creator. This engagement model allows startups to reach minimum efficient scale rapidly, leveraging exponential capabilities without the typical barriers to scale (capital, workforce, access to knowledge). By treating AI as a partner rather than a utility, Ohio founders can build robust, scalable businesses that punch far above their weight class." — Srini Koushik, CEO, Right Brain Labs
6. Practical AI Adoption Across SMBs
"The biggest impact will come from practical AI adoption moving out of experiments and into everyday operations across Ohio's SMBs, healthcare systems, and manufacturing base — especially AI that augments existing workflows rather than replacing people." —Tushar Kulkarni, CEO, Big Kitty Labs
7. Fiber as the Foundation
"Fiber is the foundation of modern connectivity—delivering not only blazing fast internet but also enabling next-gen technologies like AI and smart homes. It's the key to building a brighter, more connected future. As we move forward in the 21st century, we are focused on opportunities in Ohio to continue modernizing our network." — David C. Lewis, President, AT&T Heartland States, AT&T
These leaders aren't all betting on the same thing, and that's the point. Some are focused on quantum computing breakthroughs that could reshape entire industries. Others are watching data center infrastructure demands that will strain local resources. Several see AI adoption finally moving from experimentation to implementation at scale. And one is investing billions in the fiber networks that make all of it possible. The diversity of their answers reveals an ecosystem preparing for multiple futures simultaneously, hedging against uncertainty while moving forward with conviction.
This article is part of The Blueprint: Insights from Ohio Tech Leaders, an exclusive editorial series from OhioX and Ohio Tech News showcasing the people and ideas shaping our state's tech sector. This invitation-only platform features curated perspectives from the state’s most influential technology executives and innovators. To learn more about this series or to inquire about future partnership opportunities and inclusion, please submit your interest.
