Introducing Knox News 40 Under 40 Class of 2025
The 2025 Knox News 40 Under 40 class is full of changemakers. Check it out here!
Caleb Knight, 30, Director of AI TechX, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville is embracing the future of artificial intelligence, and Caleb Knight is leading the way in how UT can partner with businesses to embrace AI in his role with the AI TechX consortium. Through his work, Knight hopes to make the University of Knoxville and the state of Tennessee known as a powerhouse in the world of AI.
His job is not to replace real jobs with artificial intelligence. Much of this has to do with connecting industries with artificial intelligence technologies to embrace human-driven AI innovation. This is a unique role in a state that Mr. Knight is proud to lead. And when he's not at his desk, you can find him bass fishing on the water.
Please introduce yourself to our readers in 50-100 words.
Caleb Knight is an economic development expert who leads AI industry partnerships at the University of Tennessee. Currently leading AI TechX, an AI industry innovation consortium, Caleb drives collaborative projects that connect companies with AI research, talent pipelines, and entrepreneurial support to advance Tennessee's role in the global data economy. Caleb focuses on supporting multidisciplinary AI solutions, technology commercialization, and investments that create high-quality jobs and measurable economic and social value.
When you look back on your career, what is your most memorable accomplishment?
My current role in creating AI TechX, an AI industrial innovation consortium, is something that has never been done before in Tennessee. Enabling companies to collaborate with teachers will allow them to invest in AI fields that will lead to the creation of high-quality careers that didn't exist before. While many are concerned about job losses due to AI, I am in a position to challenge our industry partners to think differently about the types of jobs we want to create with AI technology.
What is the biggest professional obstacle you have had to overcome and how did you overcome it?
One of the biggest challenges in my profession is helping Tennessee communities and businesses reimagine the future of work and the role of technology in economic growth. Many organizations initially view technology as a cost or risk rather than an opportunity. My focus has been on demonstrating how strategic adoption of technology, investment in research and innovation can drive quality job creation, strengthen local economies, and lead to better overall outcomes for individuals.
What will you focus on in 2026?
My goals for 2026 are focused on expanding the AI TechX consortium and deepening its impact across Tennessee. I aim to grow membership, identify high-impact AI use cases, and secure funding for on-campus research aligned to industry needs. By connecting businesses with faculty, students, and resources, we hope to help businesses develop innovative solutions, create meaningful career opportunities for graduates, strengthen our state's workforce, and foster long-term economic growth through applied AI.
What is your biggest professional dream?
My professional dream is to drive significant business investment in Tennessee's innovation and research to ensure Tennessee's long-term success in a rapidly changing economy. I was born in East Tennessee, but my family was displaced for most of our lives as my father served as a chaplain in the U.S. Air Force. After graduating from Clemson University, he returned to Tennessee and began his career in Nashville, eventually moving to Knoxville. Now, I have the opportunity to help the state continue to invest in innovation and technology discovery.
What failure did you learn the most from?
One of my biggest mistakes professionally was moving too fast and taking on too many things at once. I learned that success isn't just about getting things done quickly, it's about slowing down, prioritizing, and focusing to produce the highest quality results. I also learned the importance of choosing to work for leaders who enable me and identifying collaborators who make me better. Just because you have an opportunity doesn't mean it's the best opportunity. Quality over quantity drives results, so it's important to make sure the people you work with are passionate about the same goals.
What motivates you?
My love for my family and Tennessee. Having lived in many different places throughout my childhood, I always considered Tennessee (specifically East Tennessee) to be my home. I want to see my family thrive, grow, and most importantly, become leaders. Our community has so much potential here and is on a great trajectory. I'm driven by the fact that I get to be a part of it.
What is the most overrated business advice you have heard?
“Grease on the squeaky wheel.” Certainly, being an advocate for ourselves, our projects, and our priorities is something we all should do as professionals. I think it's more than that. Being an advocate also means being a strategic communicator, which plays a key role in building trust with stakeholders and partners. People can become exhausted from the constant demands and support. It is important to plan for each scenario. No project is ever the same.
What characteristics do you most look for in a colleague?
I want someone who not only gives me words of affirmation when I'm doing something right, but also someone who calls me out when I need time to think. I tend to push things forward, but it's important to have someone there to hold me accountable to delivering the highest quality results.
What would you like to improve about Knoxville?
I hope Knoxville continues to invest more in its technology infrastructure. Knoxville has changed a lot in the past five years that I have lived here, but it continues to deliver on the promises of our community leaders. I think we are in the midst of great change as a community. We will soon see more and more technology innovations and investments that will lead to a significant increase in access to entry-level jobs for graduates. We have a lot of competition here in the Southeast with the likes of Georgia and North Carolina, so execution is very important.
What do people not know about you?
People may not know that I love bass fishing. It's one of my favorite hobbies and there are so many great spots here in East Tennessee.
- thank you: Tori Knight (spouse). David Knight (father). Stacey Knight (mother). Attorney Doug, RJ Youngblood, Vasilios Marlas, Mark Gibson, Deb Crawford (colleagues)
- Number of years working at current company: two
- Degrees and Certifications: in Political Science from Clemson University. basic economic development certificate
- Community participation: Participated in Tennessee Economic Development Council for 5 years
– Keenan Thomas
