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From West Texas to the World: Texas Tech Joins NVIDIA to Launch Next-Generation AI Infrastructure

Feb. 20, 2026 | Contact: Erin Daly Wilson

The Texas Tech University System (TTU System) today announced a transformative partnership with NVIDIA to deploy next-generation accelerated computing infrastructure, positioning Texas Tech University at the forefront of artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and advanced research.

"Texas Tech University is positioning itself and the state of Texas as leaders in the AI race by being one of the first universities to purchase the NVIDIA GB300 NVL72 - a system purpose-built for large-scale AI training and inference,” said Chris Malachowsky, co-founder of NVIDIA. “This investment in AI infrastructure, powered by the NVIDIA accelerated computing platform, drives economic growth, fuels research and workforce development, and strengthens America’s industrial ecosystem to compete globally."

By moving directly to the NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra (B300) platform—bypassing current-market H100 and B200 hardware—Texas Tech has leapfrogged all other universities and secured one of the most advanced supercomputing architectures not just in higher education, but across all industries.

The acquisition includes NVIDIA’s cutting-edge GB300 NVL72 systems, powered by Grace CPUs alongside a new cluster of B300 accelerators, forming a secure, next-generation supercomputing environment built not only for academia, but for broad industry application.

“This investment reflects the kind of strategic decision that strengthens Texas Tech University’s trajectory as a preeminent research university,” said Texas Tech University President Lawrence Schovanec. “It will create a new level of AI research capacity that enhances our existing strengths while deepening engagement with external partners. It also supports our AAU aspirations, faculty recruitment, and our workforce development efforts. Chancellor Creighton’s vision and engagement throughout this process were critical in making it possible.”

Following early adoption at the U.S. Naval Academy Postgraduate School, Texas Tech will be the first R1 public university in the country to own and operate a system built for Agentic AI—putting the TTU System at the forefront of how intelligent systems are designed, trained and deployed.

Purpose-built for scale, resilience, and security, the architecture will accelerate innovation across critical sectors, including:

With this investment, Texas Tech is not merely expanding research capacity — it is establishing Lubbock as a national hub for industrial-scale AI development and advanced computational discovery.

“This is a defining moment for Texas Tech and for the state of Texas,” said Chancellor Brandon Creighton. “We are not chasing the future — we are building it. By moving directly to NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra, we’ve made it clear: Texas Tech intends to lead in advanced computing and AI — both in Texas and nationally. There are no ceilings at Texas Tech and there will be zero hesitation about what it takes to lead. NVIDIA is a bold American company built on innovation and the promise of the American dream, and that spirit aligns with who we are. I’m grateful for President Schovanec’s leadership and the Board of Regents’ vision to make this possible. Together, we are building infrastructure that will power discovery, attract industry and position us at the forefront of advanced technology for decades to come.”

Beyond its research impact, the platform is expected to serve as a significant revenue generator for the TTU System. Through strategic partnerships and shared services, Texas Tech will provide advanced computing access to private sector partners — supported by a highly secure, Texas-based AI cloud infrastructure designed to meet the needs of industry and government partners.

By expanding access to industrial-scale AI infrastructure, Texas Tech will accelerate commercialization and job creation across critical sectors, including:

“I started my first company as a student at Texas Tech and what we’re building today gives the next generation access to world-class technology and a front-row seat to the industries shaping the future,” said Dustin Womble, Vice Chair of the TTU System Board of Regents. “This partnership creates a launchpad for entrepreneurs, innovators and industry leaders who will build their companies right here in Texas.”

The infrastructure will also expand workforce development across West Texas, giving citizens and students hands-on experience with the most advanced AI systems in the world and preparing graduates for high-demand careers in:

“This investment is not only visionary — it’s strategic,” said Cody Campbell, Chairman of the TTU System Board of Regents. “In West Texas, we know how to build infrastructure that powers the country and stands the test of time. This region has fueled America’s growth for generations—and with this investment, we’re proving that the next frontier of innovation isn’t somewhere else — it’s right here. Texas Tech is building world-class capability in a place that understands scale, resilience and results.”

Additional information, including opportunities to register for workforce training and access computing resources, will be made available through dedicated TTU System platforms launching in the coming weeks.