Who We Are and Why We Exist
IAAM’s mission is to advance applied artificial intelligence research, education, and workforce development at NMSU — putting AI to work for the people, industries, and communities of New Mexico.
A New Mexico where AI-driven discovery and education create opportunity, strengthen industries, and address the state’s most pressing challenges.
Our Story
IAAM was established at New Mexico State University to bridge the gap between AI research and real-world application. New Mexico has extraordinary AI research talent — across agriculture, water, energy, defense, cybersecurity, and healthcare — but that work often exists in silos. IAAM changes that.
Under the leadership of Dr. Enrico Pontelli, Special Assistant in AI, IAAM brings together NMSU’s AI researchers, educators, and partners in a coordinated effort to make New Mexico a recognized AI hub — not just in the Southwest, but nationally.
AI for New Mexico
IAAM connects research, education, and industry to advance practical AI solutions for New Mexico’s most important challenges. Through collaboration and innovation, we are building pathways for discovery, workforce readiness, and community impact across the state.
IAAM Goals
- Advance applied AI research with direct impact on New Mexico’s priority sectors
- Build AI literacy and workforce readiness at every educational level
- Foster partnerships between NMSU and industry, government, and community organizations
- Anchor NMSU’s role in the New Mexico Artificial Intelligence Consortium (NMAIC)
- Position New Mexico as a nationally recognized center for applied AI innovation