It feels like discussions of artificial intelligence (AI) are everywhere — especially following Apple’s announcement of Apple Intelligence. The field of study aims to replicate human thinking through the use of machines, and local companies have found smart ways to utilize the technology.

Virginia ranks as the No. 2 best state for AI jobs, so we wanted to take a look at five local companies using AI and the ways they’re applying the tech.

CarMax

This used car company's Digital Innovation Center is in Richmond, and it houses many engineering jobs that incorporate AI and machine learning. In 2023, CarMax partnered with UVeye, a company that employs AI to provide vehicle assessments to customers.

Empower.AI

Headquartered in Reston, this AI solutions company opened a Richmond facility in 2022. Empower.AI provides insights to support federal missions and government agencies, and its technology has helped the US Department of Defense and armed forces for 30+ years.

Capital One

The second largest employer in Richmond works to find banking solutions, including at its West Creek campus. Recent job postings are looking for candidates with knowledge of AI, which the business uses to analyze financial profiles and provide support solutions.

Ignitho Technologies

This company has a development center in Richmond where it uses AI and robotic process automation to analyze data, predict outcomes, and generate user cases. It has supported companies in fields like advertising, security, and health care.

Thermo Fisher Scientific

In 2022, this biotech company opened a lab in Richmond that will help make progress in immunology and pharmaceutical developments. AI has become an integral part of the company's research, especially as a tool to study genetic analysis.

Want to learn more about Richmond's AI efforts? Local group AI Ready RVA is organizing efforts to welcome AI jobs, education, and seminars to the city.