RIC Cyber Institute

Technology is evolving quickly. Policymakers are working to keep up.

From AI and cryptocurrency to data centers, Rhode Island lawmakers tackled a number of emerging technology issues during this year's legislative session. The Rhode Island Current's legislative overview offers a useful look at where Rhode Island stands today.

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What Rhode Island lawmakers did — and didn’t do — on AI, crypto and data centers • Rhode Island Current Rhode Island lawmakers passed limited AI rules for companion models and healthcare. Broader tech regulations, including data centers, largely stalled, although a cryptocurrency study commission is finally coming to the State House.

Artificial intelligence is transforming how we work and innovate — but what powers your chatbot? And what does that mean for our environment?

In a conversation with Rhode Island College (RIC) News, Institute Director Doug Alexander and Academic Advisor Timothy Henry explore the rising demand for data centers, the natural resources they require, and the importance of balancing technological advancement with sustainability.

What Powers AI and What Is It Costing the Earth: RIC Experts Respond Public backlash against the building of large capacity data centers that power AI is spreading across the country. Working around the clock, data centers house thousands of high-powered computers that process data 24/7. They not only consume massive amounts of electricity, they generate intense heat...

Congratulations to Emily Bairos of East Providence High School on receiving an NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Affiliate Award!

Emily combines creativity and technical skill through her work in computer science, 3D printing and SkillsUSA. She’s even turned her passion for design into a small business selling 3D printed creations at school events! Inspired by advocates like Malala Yousafzai, We are especially proud to say that Emily will be coming to Rhode Island College (RIC) in the fall, where she hopes to continue using technology as a tool to create positive change in the world.

Danica Barrett of the East Providence Career & Technical Center is already building an impressive future in cybersecurity, earning her Tech+ certification and working toward Security+.

She’s passionate about helping people stay safe online and mentoring younger students as they begin their own technology journeys. Danika will be pursuing additional education for IT Tech support from Year Up and plans to go into the field as a career. Congratulations, Danica, on earning this well-deserved NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Affiliate Award!

Congratulations to Zoe Nunez-Torres of Achievement First Providence High School on receiving an NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Affiliate Award!

Zoe is passionate about using technology to improve healthcare outcomes and dreams of developing 3D surgical simulation tools that help doctors practice complex procedures safely before operating on patients. Her vision is rooted in personal experience and a deep desire to save lives through innovation.

Congratulations to Iris Yang of Barrington High School, recipient of an NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Award!

A self-taught programmer and standout mathematician, Iris developed a machine learning model to predict drug toxicity after seeing the impact of liver disease on a close friend. From GirlsGetMath @ Brown to research internships and published scientific work, Iris is already using technology to solve real-world problems with compassion and purpose. Iris is headed to Harvard University in the fall. We are proud to celebrate this incredible future tech leader.

Congratulations to Augustus Richardson of Cumberland High School on earning an Honorable Mention in the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Awards!

Augustus is fascinated by robotics and prosthetic technology and hopes to design tools that improve mobility and independence for people with disabilities. His commitment to listening directly to the communities he hopes to serve reflects the passion and innovation that define great technology leaders.

Congratulations to Paxton Phiuphonphan of Cumberland High School on earning an Honorable Mention in the 2026 NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Awards!

Paxton’s passion for coding began in childhood and grew into leadership in game design and a deep interest in the Internet of Things. Inspired by technology innovations he observed abroad, he hopes to create more inclusive and accessible technology that improves everyday life for everyone. We can’t wait to see where his creativity and vision take him next!

Congratulations to Mariana Gutierrez of Cumberland High School on earning an Honorable Mention in the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Awards!

Mariana began teaching herself Python at just 12-years-old and has continued expanding her skills across multiple programming languages, game jams and hackathons. She is headed to Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the fall and hopes to one day become a data scientist for the U.S. Navy and explore how AI can support mental health treatment.

Congratulations to Bradyn DiBiase of Cumberland High School on earning an NCWIT Aspirations in Computing Rising Star Award!

Bradyn’s passion for IT began in elementary school when he became his classroom’s unofficial tech support specialist, helping his teacher and her colleagues troubleshoot challenges with their computers. Today, he’s building websites and helping small businesses modernize their technology, with a goal of making affordable web and cybersecurity support more accessible to local companies.