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Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

Sierra Artificial Neural Networks Locates Headquarters to Florence, Alabama

08/13/2018
Sierra Artificial Neural Networks plans today to locate its headquarters in Florence, Alabama. The company will form a joint development partnership with IPWatch Systems Corp. to advance artificial intelligence products.

Sierra Artificial Neural Networks said the Florence area represents an ideal location for the firm to pursue application creation and ongoing development. The region is home to the University of North Alabama and provides access to the talent needed for AI research and commercialization, the company said.

Florence-based IPWatch Systems said the partnership will allow the firm to enhance its existing product line utilizing AI. “This initiative will continue to grow IPWatch’s success in the artificial intelligence space and continue to contribute to local and state economic development in tech,” said Sean Collin, CEO of IPWatch Systems.

Sierra officials said Florence-based IPWatch Systems’ accomplishments in AI make it a great choice for the joint development partnership. “It has a solid track record of developing and commercializing disruptive technology utilizing artificial intelligence, machine learning and Big Data,” Sierra CEO Terry Bartz said.

“We are confident that by combining our respective technologies and commercial backgrounds, we will be highly competitive and successful in the global markets for artificial intelligence applications, “ Bartz added.

Greg Canfield, secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce said, “We’re committed to facilitating the growth of technology-focused jobs across Alabama and to building a robust tech sector involved in cutting-edge activities that add vitality to the state’s economy. This partnership will help us expand our expertise in a technology that’s poised to play a critical role in the future.”

The firm received a grant from the Shoals Economic Development Authority. SEDA President Forrest Wright said, “We are thrilled to have new high-paying jobs and an increased presence in the tech industry,” he said. “We support this project and look forward to watching it grow in the Shoals.”

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