Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced plans to invest $11 billion in Georgia to expand its infrastructure supporting artificial intelligence and cloud computing technologies, marking one of the largest technology investments in the state's history.

The investment, focused on Butts and Douglas counties, is expected to create at least 550 new high-skilled jobs in roles such as data centre engineers, network specialists, engineering operations managers and security specialists. The expansion will also support thousands of additional positions in construction and the data centre supply chain.

Roger Wehner, vice president of economic development at AWS, said: "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."

The announcement builds on Amazon's existing presence in Georgia, where the company has invested $18.5 billion since 2010 and currently supports 34,000 full- and part-time jobs, along with 44,700 indirect positions.

Local officials have warmly welcomed the investment. "This is a historic day for Douglas County," said Dr Romona Jackson Jones, Douglas County Commission chairwoman. "We are pleased to welcome AWS to bring the most secure, resilient, and advanced cloud computing technology to the county."

The expansion comes as major technology companies are increasing their investments in AI infrastructure. The deployment of cutting-edge AI systems requires substantial computing power and advanced data centres capable of running sophisticated graphics processing units for AI and machine learning models.

AWS has committed to supporting local communities through various initiatives, including educational programmes focused on science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics. The company already operates training programmes in the region, including a Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing Workshop at Augusta Technical College.

The company has also demonstrated its commitment to sustainability in Georgia through investments in renewable energy, including eight solar farms. Once fully operational, these facilities will generate enough carbon-free energy to power approximately 123,000 U.S. homes annually.

Russ Crumbley, chairman of the Butts County Board of Commissioners, noted: "Their investment will be the most significant in Butts County history, and represents a truly collaborative effort for more than a year by the Butts County Board of Commissioners, the Development Authority of Butts County, the Butts County Water and Sewer Authority, and the Butts County School System."

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