Thunder and USC Marshall School of Business launch Agentic AI research lab dedicated to preparing future leaders

Thunder, a Salesforce Ventures-backed consultancy, and USC Marshall School of Business have announced the launch of the USC Agentic AI Research Lab, dedicated to giving students, researchers, and businesses the tools they need to thrive in an agentic-AI environment.

The USC Agentic AI Research Lab aims to provide a hub for students and industry leaders to collaborate and address how agentic AI will change business strategy, organizational design, workforce skills, and investments.

The lab will also provide pathways for students to access internships and career opportunities with companies shaping the future of AI.

“By engaging directly with companies in real time and working on real problems, our students can apply and extend their knowledge and skills in real-world contexts. It's a win for our corporate partners, but a bigger win for our students," explains Geoff Garrett, Dean at USC Marshall School of Business.

"Nothing is more important than helping our students both understand and contribute to the AI revolution by working with cutting-edge companies like Thunder."

Carter Wigell, founder and CEO of Thunder, adds: "Agentic AI represents the most significant business shift of our lifetimes. By combining the academic strength of USC Marshall, the global innovation engine of Salesforce, and Thunder's expertise in driving AI business change, we're creating a launchpad for the next generation of business leaders to thrive in this era of transformation."

The USC Agentic AI Research Lab will research how AI is shaping four separate areas of development: healthcare, corporate applications, high-tech industries, and public sector initiatives.

The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026

The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.

Now open for entries, the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 recognize the companies, platforms, and individuals driving transformation in the sector, from AI-driven assessment tools and personalized learning systems, to upskilling solutions and digital platforms that connect learners with real-world outcomes.

Submissions are open to organizations across the UK, the Americas, and internationally. Entries should highlight measurable impact, whether in K–12 classrooms, higher education institutions, or lifelong learning settings.

Winners will be announced on 14 January 2026 as part of an online showcase featuring expert commentary on emerging trends and standout innovation. All winners and finalists will also be featured in our first print magazine, to be distributed at BETT 2026.