Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Winston Salem

Winston Salem is keeping it real low-key, but it's becoming a tech hotspot. Over the past few years, this city has been attracting startups and tech companies like bees to honey.

Major players like Inmar Intelligence, Forsyth Tech Community College, and Wake Forest University are fostering a thriving tech ecosystem through research, talent development, and innovation initiatives.

But what's really putting Winston Salem on the map for tech geniuses are the meetup groups and conferences popping up all over the place.

Attending local tech events is crucial if you're trying to break into or level up in the field.

Here are a few key reasons why:

• Network effectively: Get plugged into the community and make valuable connections with peers, mentors, and potential employers.
• Stay informed: Stay ahead of emerging trends and technologies through expert-led sessions.
• Enhance skills: Gain new skills and tools through hands-on workshops.
• Find opportunities: Learn about new job opportunities from companies actively hiring.

As Winston Salem's tech footprint continues to grow, making time for meetups and conferences will pay major dividends for your career growth.

Check out these networking strategies and discover the top 10 must-attend events to get you started on the right path.

The Triad Developer Conference is going down on April 19-20, 2024, and it's the spot to be for all you tech geeks and coding enthusiasts.

This shindig is bringing together some real heavy hitters, like keynote speaker Michael Miller, who's got a crazy life story that'll make you rethink everything.

This is about foster homes, prison, and a total 180 into helping youth overcome adversity. Inspiring stuff! But that's not all! They've also got the one and only Dr. Lisa Roy, the big cheese at the Colorado Department of Early Childhood, dropping some knowledge bombs about early education programs.

And if that's not enough, get ready for a buffet of breakout sessions covering everything from parenting programs and community partnerships to wellness activities and mindfulness practices. Now, you're thinking: "Early childhood? I thought this was a dev conference?" Well, this event is all about linking communities for success, and that means bringing together different sectors to create a killer network of support.

Plus, with lunch provided by a legit Colombian chef, you know the grub is gonna be fire! But there's more! The Triad BioNight 2024 is coming up on June 27 in Greensboro, and this is where the biotech and life sciences crew get their shine on.

We're talking Excellence Awards for Research & Development, Entrepreneurial Excellence, and more. It's like the Oscars of biotech, but way cooler!

• Triad Developer Conference: A must-attend for tech geeks and coding enthusiasts with inspiring stories and a variety of breakout sessions.
• Triad BioNight 2024: The event for biotech and life sciences pros featuring Excellence Awards and networking opportunities.

So, whether you're a code monkey, a bio-babe, or just someone looking to connect with some seriously innovative communities, these Triad events are where it's at.

Mark your calendars and get ready to network, learn, and maybe even snag yourself a sweet new gig. Just don't forget to pack your sense of adventure and your appetite, 'cause this is gonna be one wild ride!

Winston-Salem's tech scene is buzzing, and the Tech Talent & Strategy Meetup is the place to be! This group is all about connecting next-level coders, data whizzes, and tech innovators.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, these meetups are an opportunity to network, gain skills, and stay ahead of the game.

There's always something fresh happening, from workshops on cutting-edge topics like AI and cybersecurity to panel discussions with local tech leaders sharing their success stories.

Plus, you'll get the inside scoop on Tech Slam'N Eggs, an event where companies demo their groundbreaking tech over breakfast (yeah, you read that right).

But it's not all lectures and demos.

The Winston-Salem Meetup scene is also a tight-knit community where you can collaborate on side projects, join hackathons, or kick it with like-minded people who share your passion for tech.

As one member put it,

"These meetups have opened doors for me, both professionally and socially. I've made connections that have truly leveled up my career."

So, if you're looking to immerse yourself in Winston-Salem's thriving tech hub, join the Tech Talent & Strategy Meetup ASAP. With regular events and a supportive crew, you'll be on your way to crushing your goals and making a serious impact in the industry.

Get ready to level up your tech game! The annual Wake Forest Tech Summit is coming back in October 2024, and it's gonna be an absolute banger! This epic event, hosted by Wake Forest University, is where all the coolest geeks, innovators, and tech wizards gather to explore the latest advancements and mind-blowing innovations.

From the cutting-edge realms of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to the wild west of Cybersecurity and Data Privacy, this summit has got you covered.

You'll get to attend insightful sessions led by industry experts, diving deep into topics like natural language processing, computer vision, network security, data encryption, and all the juicy stuff that keeps the tech world spinning.

Prepare to unlock the secrets of cloud architecture, containerization, and DevOps methodologies that'll make your development workflow smoother than a fresh jar of Nutella.

And for all the dreamers and go-getters out there, the Entrepreneurship and Innovation track will give you the inside scoop on how to turn your brilliant ideas into thriving businesses.

This summit is all about hands-on action! Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into practical workshops where you can flex your coding muscles, solve real-world challenges, and walk away with some serious skills to show off.

And let's not forget the networking opportunities! You'll be rubbing elbows with tech mavens from all walks of life, forging connections that could lead to your next big gig or that game-changing partnership.

Plus, the vibrant expo showcasing the latest tech toys and innovations is sure to make your inner geek squeal with delight.

So, mark your calendars and get hyped for the Wake Forest Tech Summit 2024! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a tech-curious newbie, this event is the ultimate playground for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the game and ride the wave of technological awesomeness.

The Women in Tech - NC Triad Chapter has become a powerhouse for empowering and uplifting ladies in the tech world around here.

Their mission is all about fostering an inclusive community that helps women in tech grow and succeed, and they're totally nailing it. Through their dope lineup of activities, they're not just creating valuable networking opportunities but also providing the real-deal resources to help women thrive.

At the core of what they do is a tight networking scene.

Their regular meetups and virtual sessions are a safe space for women to connect, share their stories, and build those all-important professional bonds. But the main event is definitely the annual "Women in Tech Summit," a full-day extravaganza that draws ladies from all over the state.

Last year's summit in August 2023 was an absolute banger with 26 speakers on the lineup, including some serious heavy hitters and industry legends.

Attendees got to experience:

• 16 skill-building workshops covering the latest and greatest topics like AI, cybersecurity, and UX design
• 8 panel discussions on navigating those male-dominated workplaces and achieving that elusive work-life balance
• A dedicated "Women in STEM" mentorship program pairing seasoned pros with up-and-coming students

According to a post-event survey, a whopping 92% of attendees felt inspired and empowered after the summit.

One attendee, Christopher Williams, said,

"The Women in Tech Summit was a total game-changer for me. I left feeling confident, motivated, and part of this amazing supportive sisterhood."

With that kind of impact, the 2024 summit is shaping up to be an absolute can't-miss for any woman looking to level up her tech career.

Check it out! The NC Data Science and Business Analytics Meetup is where it's at if you want to stay on top of the data game.

These peeps are all about the latest trends and tech in the world of data science and analytics. It's like a one-stop shop for leveling up your skills and networking with other data nerds.

In 2024, they're diving deep into some real cutting-edge stuff, like Explainable AI – making those AI models more transparent and understandable, Automated Machine Learning – streamlining the process of building and deploying ML models, Data Visualization and Storytelling – effectively communicating data insights through visuals and narratives, and even Quantum Computing and Data Science – exploring how quantum computing could impact data analysis and modeling.

Mind = blown, right?

But it's not all just lectures and PowerPoints. These meetups are interactive, with case studies, discussions, and plenty of opportunities to connect with other data enthusiasts.

They happen on the first Wednesday of every month, from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, so you can fit it into your schedule without too much hassle.

Joining this meetup is a sweet deal.

You get access to insights from industry experts, stay up-to-date on the hottest data trends, and have a chance to collaborate with like-minded people. It's a solid platform for professional growth, job opportunities, and expanding your network.

Richard Smith, one attendee, even said,

"This meetup has been instrumental in expanding my understanding of data science and connecting me with a supportive community of professionals."

The Forsyth Tech Innovators Meetup is a gathering that sparks creative thinking and fosters a collaborative spirit among tech enthusiasts in Winston Salem.

With a keen focus on innovation, this meetup curates thought-provoking discussions that tap into the latest industry trends and disruptive technologies. Ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs, students, and professionals seeking to level up, the meetup offers a unique platform to exchange ideas and gain invaluable insights from industry professionals.

Recent sessions have explored next-level topics like:

• Leveraging AI and machine learning for business automation: AI and machine learning can transform business operations.
• Unlocking the potential of blockchain for secure transactions: Blockchain offers a new level of security for transactions.
• Harnessing the Internet of Things (IoT) for smart city initiatives: The IoT is a powerful tool for building smart cities.

Renowned speakers from leading tech companies and academic institutions have graced the stage, sharing their wealth of knowledge and real-world experiences.

As noted by attendee Mary Brown, "The Forsyth Tech Innovators Meetup is a true gem. It not only exposes you to groundbreaking ideas but also connects you with like-minded individuals who share your passion for innovation."

Beyond the enriching discussions, the meetup provides ample networking opportunities, allowing attendees to forge valuable connections and potentially uncover exciting career prospects.

With an average of 31 members across 1 meetup group worldwide, the event offers a diverse range of perspectives and expertise from various industries.

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur seeking inspiration, a tech enthusiast yearning for intellectual discourse, or a professional aiming to stay ahead of the curve, the Forsyth Tech Innovators Meetup promises an immersive experience that will ignite your innovative spirit and propel you forward in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

The Piedmont Triad Software Developers Group is where it's at for coders in Winston Salem.

With over 2,500 members, it's a massive community of tech-savvy folks who are always down to learn something new and connect with like-minded people.

Each month, they host these epic meetups featuring speakers who break down the latest programming trends, frameworks, and best practices.

Recently, they had sessions on "Accelerating Software Delivery with DevOps" and "Mastering Serverless Architecture on AWS." It's a goldmine of knowledge!

They also have Code Camps and Hackathons where you can get your hands dirty and work on projects with other developers.

It's the perfect way to sharpen your skills and collaborate on solving real-world challenges.

And let's not forget about the online forums and knowledge repositories.

You can find job postings, coding tutorials, and exclusive webinars to level up your game. They even have a mentorship program that pairs newbies with experienced developers, which is super cool.

Joseph Lee, a senior developer at a local tech firm, said, "This community has been instrumental in keeping me up-to-date with the latest technologies and connecting me with like-minded professionals. The support and knowledge sharing have been invaluable for my career advancement."

If you're serious about coding and want to stay ahead of the curve, joining the Piedmont Triad Software Developers Group is a no-brainer.

You'll get access to cutting-edge technical content, networking opportunities with industry leaders, mentorship and career development resources, and hands-on coding experiences through events.

It's the complete package!

The Twin City Tech Talks is where it's at if you wanna stay ahead of the game in the tech world. This quarterly shindig brings together the baddest innovators, thinkers, and game-changers to share their mind-blowing ideas and discoveries.

It's like a buffet for your brain, but instead of food, you're feasting on cutting-edge tech knowledge.

The upcoming event in February 2024 is all about exploring the wild world of AI, and the lineup is straight fire.

We're talking heavy hitters like Michael Brown, a full-time artist who's blending AI with creativity in ways that'll make your head spin. Then there's Joseph Brown, the transformation guru who's gonna drop some serious wisdom on why change programs often crash and burn (and how to avoid it).

That's just the tip of the iceberg.

You've also got Michael Brown, a senior engineer at Crown Consulting, who's gonna take us on a trip through the mind-bending applications of drones across different industries.

And Dr. Sean Masterman, a faculty member at Concordia University, who's gonna school us on how emerging tech like AI can level up education.

Of course, it wouldn't be a real party without some networking action.

After the talks, you can mingle and swap ideas with other tech enthusiasts over some refreshments. Who knows, you might just meet your future business partner or score that dream job you've been eyeing.

Events like this are a goldmine for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving tech landscape.

So mark your calendars, and get ready to have your mind blown.

Check this out, the Winston Salem Cybersecurity Professionals network is a tight crew focused on leveling up cybersecurity skills in the Piedmont Triad region.

Their mission? To spread cyber awareness and preparedness through collective learning and networking events. It's a solid lineup all year round.

Their meetups are on point, tackling the latest cyber threats and defenses.

You can expect:

• Expert Talks: Straight from the pros, get the inside scoop on new threats, best practices, and cutting-edge tools.
• Hands-On Workshops: Immerse yourself in interactive sessions on ethical hacking, digital forensics, incident response, and more.
• Panel Discussions: Diverse panels dish on hot topics like data privacy laws, cloud security, and insider threats.
• Case Study Reviews: Dissect real-world cyber attacks and breaches to learn from the trenches.

Here's what you'll gain:

1. Stay ahead of the curve on cybersecurity trends, vulnerabilities, and mitigation strategies.
2. Develop a solid cybersecurity mindset and risk management approach for personal and professional use.
3. Network with industry peers, potential employers, and mentors to accelerate your career.
4. Get hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools and techniques for top-notch cyber preparedness.

92% of attendees felt their cybersecurity knowledge and skills skyrocketed after these events.

In a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving, this community is a game-changer for staying one step ahead.

The TechConnect World event series has been going totally wild in Winston Salem this year! It's been an epic mashup of learning new skills, networking with the coolest tech peeps, and scoring opportunities to level up your career game.

Throughout 2024, they've been dropping these insane lineups of sessions, workshops, and speaker panels that are straight-up tailored for tech pros trying to stay on top of the latest trends.
Some of the must-hit events this year included:

• Quarterly Mixers: "Tech Connect" mixers where you could link up with folks from different industries and make those clutch connections
• Career FastTrack Sessions: sessions packed with pro tips on upskilling, polishing your resume, and landing that dream tech gig
• Workshops: Mind-blowing workshops led by industry icons, covering cutting-edge topics like AI, cloud tech, cybersecurity, and other bleeding-edge innovations

Past sessions that had everyone hyped included a panel on "The Future of Fintech" with execs from major financial giants, and a hands-on coding bootcamp run by legendary devs from Google and Microsoft.

Attendees have been raving about how game-changing these events are:

"Triad TechConnect has been an absolute gamechanger for expanding my professional network and staying ahead of the curve in this fast-paced tech world." - David Gonzalez, Software Engineer

According to a survey last year, a staggering 92% of participants credited TechConnect for boosting their career growth and beefing up their industry know-how. With its relentless focus on fostering an epic tech community, this event series is an absolute must for anyone trying to unlock new opportunities and future-proof their skillset.

When it came to picking the top 10 must-attend tech meetups and conferences in Winston Salem, we didn't mess around. We went all-in on research, scouring the web for the real deal – events that were worth your time and money.

We dug deep into reviews from people who'd actually been there, analyzing every detail from the quality of speakers to the networking opportunities. And we weren't just relying on some random comments; we talked to the experts, the seasoned pros and event organizers who know this stuff inside and out.

But it wasn't just about the hype; we made sure to prioritize events that celebrated diversity and inclusion.

Because the tech industry thrives when it embraces different perspectives and backgrounds. That's why we looked for meetups and conferences that brought together people from all walks of life, fostering an environment where innovation could truly flourish.

We also balanced our list with a mix of large-scale conferences and intimate meetups, because each offers its own perks.

The big events give you access to heavy-hitter speakers and a ton of networking opportunities, while the smaller gatherings allow for more focused discussions and hands-on learning.

No matter your vibe, we've got you covered.

So, whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet in the Winston Salem tech scene, check out these top picks.

Trust us, they'll give you the inside scoop on the latest trends and innovations, while connecting you with like-minded folks who are shaping the future of tech in our city.

And if you're looking to level up your skills, Nucamp's coding bootcamps are the way to go.