The Georgia Center of Innovation, part of the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), recently hosted the 2025 Georgia Logistics Summit with hundreds of participants. The summit focused on technological advancements in logistics, infrastructure updates, and preparing the workforce to support industry growth. Since its inception in 2009, the Georgia Logistics Summit has become a significant event in the Southeast, fostering networking and knowledge exchange among logistics professionals.
According to a study by the University of Georgia’s Selig Center for Economic Growth, the transportation and logistics sector in Georgia had a $107 billion economic impact in 2023. This sector accounted for more than 578,000 jobs, or one in nine jobs in Georgia. From 2010 to 2023, jobs in transportation and logistics in Georgia increased by 68%, surpassing the national growth rate of 52%. Investments in logistics and distribution sectors amounted to $3.8 billion in 2023 and 2024, creating over 9,000 jobs.
“Georgia’s unmatched global connectivity is one of the driving forces behind our economic success,” stated Pat Wilson, Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner. “The Logistics Summit brings together private sector, government, and education leaders to learn from experts, exchange best practices, and explore opportunities in the rapidly evolving logistics landscape to maximize opportunities. Events like this strengthen collaboration and spark new ideas that keep Georgia businesses competitive on a global scale.”
Russell R. McMurry, Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner, emphasized strategic investments that improve freight flow. He credited the leadership of Governor Brian P. Kemp and legislative support, highlighting a $1 billion allocation to the Georgia Freight Program over the past two years. Future transportation projects are aimed at maintaining and enhancing Georgia’s roads and bridges. Georgia’s transportation network carried nearly half a billion tons of freight in 2019, valued at $673 trillion. Projections indicate an increase to 900 million tons in freight by 2050. GDOT, alongside partners, is focused on enhancing safety and efficiency, including expanding truck parking and installing fiber internet on interstates.
Susan Gardner, Vice President of Operations at Georgia Ports Authority, discussed port capacity expansion and using data to manage safety and productivity. The Georgia Ports Authority plans a $4.5 billion investment over the next decade to expand cargo handling capabilities.
The panel discussion “AI and Beyond: Embracing Digital Transformation in Logistics” featured leaders from The Home Depot, Havertys Furniture, and TOTO USA, along with academic insights from the Georgia Institute of Technology. The panel explored the impact of digital technologies on supply chains and future strategies as AI and automation continue to influence the sector.
“Digital technologies are reshaping supply chains in various ways, and Georgia is working to stay ahead of the curve,” said David Nuckolls, Center of Innovation Executive Director. “The Center of Innovation and our specialized logistics team work alongside this dynamic industry, helping to position businesses for growth.”
The summit’s final panel focused on education and workforce development. University System of Georgia Chancellor Sonny Perdue and Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Greg Dozier discussed aligning educational programs with industry needs, emphasizing skills like problem-solving and AI tool usage. The discussion covered technical college programs, including a pilot program “Dual Achievement,” which helps students earn a high school diploma and a college certificate or diploma simultaneously.
The Center of Innovation recognized Kennesaw State University’s student team “The Masters of Logistinomics” for winning the Future Innovators in Supply Chain competition, aimed at encouraging future logistics leaders.
Additional summit participants included leaders from S&P Global Market Intelligence, Boost Phase Ventures, and M.D. Livingstone Consulting.
For further information, visit galogisticssummit.com.
