SAS marked its 50th anniversary Tuesday, five decades in which the company grew from a North Carolina academic research project into one of the world’s leading data and artificial intelligence companies.
The Cary-based company operates in more than 150 countries and is one of North Carolina’s most celebrated technology success stories.
Over 50 years, SAS has pivoted from from mainframes and personal computers to cloud computing and the rapid growth of AI, the company said in announcing the anniversary.
Headed into a sixth decade, company officials say SAS is focused on creating and sharing AI tools that can solve real-world problems .
The anniversary drew recognition from elected leaders. A U.S. Capitol flag was flown in SAS’ honor, Rep. Deborah Ross entered remarks into the Congressional Record and North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein sent a letter recognizing SAS’ contributions to innovation, education, workforce development and community impact.
