Big news from the world of AI infrastructure! Fermi America just brought on a true Texas legend: former Amarillo Mayor Trent Sisemore. What does this mean for the future of artificial intelligence power, and how will his deep community roots shape this monumental project? Get ready for a game-changer!

Fermi America™, a global leader in designing private grids for artificial intelligence (AI) power demands, has officially announced the appointment of former Amarillo Mayor Trent Sisemore as its new Community Lead. This strategic move, made in partnership with the Texas Tech University System, underscores Fermi’s commitment to integrating local expertise and ensuring community engagement as it spearheads monumental infrastructure projects across the region.

Sisemore brings an unparalleled depth of experience in public service and community governance, having previously served as both Amarillo mayor and city commissioner. His tenure in public office was marked by significant achievements, including the successful acquisition of water rights for the city for the next 300 years, the establishment of the Bell Helicopter manufacturing plant, and the development of a state-of-the-art performing arts center, all of which substantially contributed to Amarillo’s economic development and growth.

Beyond his distinguished political career, Sisemore has a strong entrepreneurial background and a proven track record as a successful businessman. He co-owned Jack Sisemore Traveland, a prominent local business that was later acquired by Marcus Lemonis’ Camping World. Furthermore, Sisemore was a co-founder of Keystone RV, which grew to become the world’s largest manufacturer of travel trailers and fifth wheels at the time of its sale, showcasing his acumen in large-scale enterprise and market leadership.

A pillar of the Amarillo community, Sisemore’s dedication extends to numerous local charities and his 17-year board service at Happy State Bank. His deep-rooted faith, love for family, and commitment to his country resonate strongly with Texan values. For 26 years, he served as a worship leader at San Jacinto Baptist Church, later known as The Church at Quail Creek, further exemplifying his profound community involvement and leadership.

His appointment has been met with enthusiasm from Fermi America’s leadership. Former Governor Rick Perry, a co-founder of Fermi, remarked on Sisemore’s integrity and respect within the community, stating, “Trent is a good man, with a world of respect, mine included. The fact he’s willing to come and work with us here at Fermi is a well-earned stamp of approval for what we are building here.” Fermi Co-founder and CEO, David Russell, echoed these sentiments, highlighting Sisemore’s embodiment of shared Texan values, particularly “being a good neighbor.”

Expressing his own commitment, Sisemore noted his pride in joining the Fermi America team after Governor Perry explained the critical mission. He emphasized his belief in the project’s significant impact on the region, the state of Texas, and the nation as a whole. Sisemore is confident in the skilled local workforce, ready to contribute to this ambitious undertaking and ensure the United States remains competitive in the global AI race.

Fermi America’s visionary plan involves delivering up to 11 gigawatts of highly-redundant power and 15 million square feet of artificial intelligence capacity. This massive power grid development includes the first gigawatt of natural gas power generation online by the end of 2026, with subsequent gigawatts added annually for a decade. The project, spanning 5,236 acres on sovereign Texas Tech University System land, also anticipates nuclear construction starting in 2027, with the first reactor operational by 2032, marking a significant leap in energy innovation.

Pioneering next-generation electric grids, Fermi America combines cutting-edge technology with a team of world-class leaders, including former U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry and Quantum Energy Partners co-founder, Wil VanLoh. The behind-the-meter campus is designed to integrate America’s largest nuclear power complex, the nation’s biggest combined-cycle natural gas project, alongside utility grid power, solar, and battery storage, all to power hyperscaler artificial intelligence. This advanced infrastructure is crucial for meeting the rapidly escalating demands of AI technology.

The Texas Tech University System, established in 1996, serves as a vital partner in this endeavor. As one of the nation’s top public university systems, it comprises five universities and operates at 20 academic locations across 16 cities. With approximately 21,000 employees, 64,000 students, and a statewide economic impact of $6.5 billion, the TTU System’s collaboration reinforces the project’s academic and regional significance in driving technological advancement and economic prosperity.