Research Triangle Park (RTP) AAIA Chapter

Welcome to the RTP Chapter of the Applied AI Association

The Research Triangle Park (RTP) Chapter of the Applied AI Association (AAIA) serves as a hub for professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts in the AI ecosystem within the Triangle region of North Carolina. Our mission is to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and drive innovation in applied AI across the region's key industries.

About RTP

Established in 1959, Research Triangle Park has evolved into one of the largest research parks in the United States, renowned for its concentration of high-tech companies and research institutions. The region is anchored by three major research universities—Duke University, North Carolina State University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill—contributing to its reputation as a powerhouse in technology and innovation. RTP's rich history and commitment to research and development make it a fertile ground for advancements in artificial intelligence and related fields. For more about RTP’s history of purposeful innovation, see https://www.rtp.org/history/

Key Industries in the Region

  • Healthcare and Life Sciences: Home to leading healthcare institutions and biotech firms, the RTP region is at the forefront of medical research and innovation.

  • Higher Education and Research: The presence of top-tier universities fosters a strong emphasis on research, providing a steady stream of talent and groundbreaking discoveries.

  • Technology and Innovation: With a robust ecosystem of tech companies and startups, RTP is a breeding ground for technological advancements, particularly in AI and machine learning.

Chapter Leadership

  • Chapter Head: Shareef Alshinnawi

  • Organizers: Murtza Naseem, Brian Moynihan

Our leadership team brings a wealth of experience in technology, business strategy, and community building, dedicated to advancing the application of AI in the region.

Join Us

The RTP Chapter hosts quarterly networking events, workshops, and discussions aimed at connecting professionals and fostering the growth of applied AI. Whether you're a seasoned expert or new to the field, we welcome you to be part of our vibrant community.

For more information or to get involved, please contact: Shareef Alshinnawi: shareef@aaiaglobal.com

Upcoming Events

See all events here.

Featured News

Featured Members

Research Triangle Park (RTP) Chapter Team

Shareef Alshinnawi

  • President, shareef@aaiaglobal.com

    Shareef Alshinnawi brings extensive experience from his roles as a Solutions Architect at IBM and Lenovo, where he led the design and deployment of large-scale High Performance Computing and AI solutions globally. Currently serving as Director of Business Development for strategic accounts at nVent, Shareef focuses on AI infrastructure and DataCenter cooling, and holds over 70 patents issued by the USPTO. As AAIA Chapter President, he looks forward to engaging with local companies, universities, and institutions dedicated to AI, expanding his network, and learning from subject matter experts. Shareef’s vision for the RTP chapter centers on building a vibrant community through learning and networking events, and growing membership among AI experts and those eager to deepen their knowledge of artificial intelligence.

    Learn more.

  • Executive Committee Member

  • Executive Committee Member