This Week's Latest Tech News in Waco, TX - Sunday April 13th 2025 Edition

Waco's tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with over 200 tech companies now calling the city home.

The average tech salary has reached $95,000, attracting talent from across Texas. Local education is stepping up, with TSTC breaking ground on a new 126,000-square-foot technical programs building set to open in Spring 2026.

Baylor University has launched innovative programs in computer science, engineering, and informatics, with new concentrations in software engineering and cybersecurity.

The tech job market shows strong momentum, with a 32% increase in opportunities since 2021 and projections for an 18% rise by 2026.

Major companies like L3Harris Technologies, SpaceX, and Amazon are actively recruiting in the area, while the local tech sector contributes $1.2 billion to Waco's economy.

The city's commitment to innovation is further demonstrated through its smart city initiatives, including a nine-mile smart corridor project supported by a $4.8 million RAISE grant.

This infrastructure development, combined with growing educational opportunities and rising corporate investment, positions Waco as an emerging force in Texas's tech landscape.

InnovateNow is making waves in Waco's tech scene with its game-changing smart home technology. Led by Sarah Rodriguez, who brings over a decade of experience in integrated control technology, the company is revolutionizing home automation with an emphasis on accessibility and sustainability.

During the April 2025 launch, Rodriguez unveiled innovations including a comprehensive control technology dashboard that monitors energy, water, and indoor air quality, making smart home management effortless for users.

The system integrates with popular platforms like Google Home and Amazon Alexa, offering centralized control of lighting, climate, and security features.

Thanks to $8 million in seed funding, InnovateNow is rapidly expanding its product line with affordable options that incorporate advanced AI capabilities and improved integration with core services.

Their 2025 roadmap includes launching smart furniture with embedded control systems, programmable dynamic lighting, and automated water management features that can detect leaks early.

The company aims to capture 15% of Waco's smart home market by year-end while promoting sustainable living through devices that reduce energy consumption by up to 10%.

Their eco-friendly initiatives align perfectly with Waco's push toward greener technology.

Beyond product development, InnovateNow is partnering with local sustainable housing projects to integrate their systems into new constructions.

The company's commitment to innovation extends to exploring new technologies like tunable lighting that adapts to moods and improves sleep cycles, plus smart water management systems that optimize usage.

With these advancements, InnovateNow is positioned to transform how Waco residents interact with their homes while promoting environmental responsibility.

For the much-anticipated Global Business Expo 2024 at Baylor's Foster Atrium, where tech innovation meets real-world opportunities.

After last year's success, the event is expanding with even more exciting features. Running from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on September 12th, this year's expo is shaping up to be a game-changer for anyone interested in global tech opportunities.

You'll find everything from study abroad programs to cutting-edge internships, plus a chance to connect with industry pros who've been there and done that.

The TechConnect World Innovation Conference is also coming to Austin in 2025, bringing together the biggest names in commercialization-focused innovation.

The Baylor Innovation Conference is joining forces with these events, creating an epic weekend of tech exploration.

The best part? There's free food and prizes up for grabs! Whether you're into AI, blockchain, or just curious about where tech is headed, this is your chance to get in on the ground floor of something big.

With faculty and students sharing real experiences and multiple organizations showcasing their latest tech developments, it's basically like stepping into a preview of your future career.

If you're looking to make moves in the tech world, this is where you need to be.

Texas is witnessing a massive transformation in digital connectivity, with the Texas Broadband Development Office leading a $30 million pilot program for rural broadband expansion.

In Waco, WacoConnect is at the forefront of this revolution, targeting over 40,000 households across 15 neighborhoods by late 2025. The initiative mirrors successful projects like Brightspeed's recent deployment in North Carolina, which connected 112,000 locations to high-speed fiber internet.

WacoConnect's implementation of XGS-PON technology will boost speeds from the current 200 Mbps to a guaranteed 1 Gbps, matching the state's ambitious 2026 connectivity goals for anchor institutions.

The project addresses both infrastructure challenges and digital equity, ensuring no community gets left behind. Local tech entrepreneur Jennifer Martin notes,

This expansion is transforming Waco into a legitimate tech hub, attracting both talent and investment.

Recent data shows the initiative has already connected 30% of targeted households, with installation rates exceeding initial projections.

The program includes digital literacy training and affordable pricing options, making high-speed internet accessible to previously underserved areas. As construction continues, WacoConnect maintains its commitment to providing future-proof infrastructure that will support emerging technologies and foster economic growth across the region.

HackFest 2023 showcased Waco's emerging tech talent ecosystem, drawing over 200 participants to Waco's growing tech community.

The event, hosted at Baylor University, featured S. Aziz Pradana, Engineering Manager at Bukalapak and Google Developer Expert, who delivered insights on building impactful products through solution challenges.

The competition's standout project was ParkWise, an innovative urban parking management solution developed by Baylor computer science alumnus Jessica Perez and team.

This application uses IoT sensors to track real-time parking availability, addressing local concerns highlighted in the Heart of Texas community surveys.

ParkWise's features include real-time availability monitoring, an intuitive user interface, and emissions reduction tracking. The team secured the $10,000 grand prize and invaluable mentorship from WacoTech Alliance experts.

The success of HackFest 2023 demonstrates the city's commitment to nurturing tech talent, with local institutions and industry leaders collaborating to support innovative solutions.

This event has become a cornerstone in positioning Waco as an emerging technology hub, attracting both established companies and startup ventures to the region.

Baylor University's School of Engineering and Computer Science continues to advance tech education with innovative programs and opportunities. As of 2025, Baylor offers seven bachelor's degrees across five areas of study, including Computer Science, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Cybersecurity.

The school's commitment to excellence is evident in its Learning Design and Technology programs, which integrate cutting-edge AI tools and methodologies, preparing students for an industry projected to grow 6% over the next decade.

The university's tech education initiatives include the Computer Science Pathway program, allowing high school students to earn up to 29 college credits before graduation.

This early exposure to computer science creates a pipeline for future tech professionals, while maintaining rigorous academic standards with a minimum 3.0 GPA requirement.

The program's success is reflected in strong student outcomes, with recent data showing that 75% of participants received raises or promotions after enrollment.

Students engage in hands-on learning through various tech projects and research opportunities.

In summer 2025, programs like Engineering Challenges and Multimedia Production provide practical experience in emerging technologies. The university's R1 research designation validates its commitment to advancing technological innovation, while industry partnerships ensure students gain relevant professional experience.

This combination of academic rigor and practical application has positioned Baylor as a leader in tech education, preparing graduates for the evolving demands of the technology sector.

Waco's tech ecosystem is experiencing remarkable growth, with over 200 tech companies now calling the city home.

At the heart of this expansion, WacoTech Hub has become a vital collaborative workspace since its 2025 launch. The workspace reflects the city's broader tech evolution, supported by more than $1.2 billion in capital investment.

Members enjoy premium amenities including unlimited local coffee from Apex Coffee Roasters and craft beer, along with essential business services like high-speed internet, conference facilities, and ergonomic workstations.

The hub has attracted diverse tech talent, contributing to the city's impressive average tech salary of $95,000.

Regular events include Innovation Talks, featuring industry leaders and local entrepreneurs who share insights on emerging technologies.

Through partnerships with Baylor University and local tech firms, the hub facilitates connections between academic research and practical applications.

The space has become particularly attractive to remote workers and entrepreneurs, offering flexible membership options and networking opportunities. Members have access to meeting rooms, printing services, and a business mailing address, while the community aspect provides valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.

The hub's strategic downtown location, combined with its comprehensive amenities and professional atmosphere, has created an environment where innovation thrives and businesses grow.

Surveys reveal significant benefits:

• Increased productivity: 85% of members report better efficiency since joining the community.
• Business growth: Many businesses experience growth in operations and revenue post-membership.

In 2025, Waco is transforming into a powerhouse of sustainable tech, with over 200 tech companies now calling the city home.

The city's commitment to sustainability is backed by serious investment, including a $4.8 million RAISE grant focusing on green infrastructure and a smart corridor project that's already cutting commute times by 20%.

Local institutions are stepping up too - Baylor University has launched new programs in AI and cybersecurity, with a focus on sustainable tech solutions.

The upcoming Green Communities Conference, themed "Rooted in Resilience," is set to showcase these innovations this September. What's really cool is how the city is tackling climate challenges head-on - they've switched to 100% renewable energy through MP2 Energy Texas, saving over $400,000 annually, and the new Fire Station #6 is rocking solar panels that cover 45% of its electricity needs.

Plus, the city's implementing smart transportation tech and expanding EV infrastructure, making it easier for residents to reduce their carbon footprint.

The real game-changer is how Waco's tech scene isn't just growing - it's growing green, with companies focusing on sustainable solutions that create jobs while protecting the environment. These initiatives aren't just good for the planet; they're creating a blueprint for how cities can use tech to build a more sustainable future.

• Commitment to Sustainability: Waco's investment in green infrastructure is making commutes more efficient and environmentally friendly.
• University Initiatives: Baylor University's new programs emphasize sustainable tech solutions.
• Renewable Energy Shift: Switching to renewable energy saves Waco substantial money and reduces environmental impact.
• Smart Tech Expansion: Transportation technology innovations facilitate reduced carbon footprints for residents.
• Green Job Growth: Local tech companies are providing sustainable job opportunities while caring for the environment.

The WacoTech Alliance marks a transformative step for Waco's expanding tech landscape, with over 200 tech companies now calling Waco home and driving more than $1.2 billion in capital investment.

The Alliance unites key players including Baylor University, which has stepped up with new concentrations in AI and cybersecurity, alongside Innovate Waco and the Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce.

Each partner contributes unique strengths - Baylor's research capabilities and talent pipeline are particularly crucial, with their expanded computer science programs preparing students for real-world tech challenges.

The tech industry has grown 25% since 2020, creating an energetic ecosystem for innovation and collaboration.

• Green Tech Challenge: The Alliance's "Green Tech Challenge" encourages sustainable tech solutions, promoting environmental responsibility.
• Digital Literacy Initiative: Offers free workshops in cutting-edge fields like AI and data analysis to enhance tech skills and opportunities.
• Tech Incubator Program: Supports startups with essential resources and mentorship, fostering innovation and growth.
• Smart City Solutions: Collaborates with local government to implement tech-driven urban improvements, enhancing city living.
• Women in Tech Symposium: Reflects their commitment to diversity in tech by highlighting female tech leaders and innovators.

According to recent projections, the average tech salary in Waco has reached $95,000, making it an increasingly attractive hub for tech professionals.

Ludo Fourrage, CEO of Innovate Waco, emphasizes how the Alliance is reshaping technology's role in community development, while Chamber of Commerce data suggests a 30% increase in tech-related jobs over the next five years.

Through these initiatives, the WacoTech Alliance is effectively positioning Waco as a model for mid-sized cities embracing technological advancement.

Waco's tech landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 200 tech companies now calling the city home, marking a 40% surge in the sector.

Leading the charge is Trango Tech, which has maintained an impressive 90% talent retention rate while completing over 1,000 successful mobile app development projects.

The company's success story is part of a larger trend that's seen tech salaries in Waco averaging $95,000, making it an increasingly attractive destination for tech talent.

Local educational institutions are stepping up to meet this growth, with Baylor University launching innovative programs in AI and cybersecurity, supported by hands-on experience through the Central Texas Cyber Range.

The city's commitment to tech advancement is further demonstrated by a collaboration between McLennan County, the City of Waco, and TSTC through The WorkSITE initiative, which offers custom workforce training and microcredentials to address the industrial skills gap.

• Preparation for Next Generation: This program has already shown promising results in preparing the next generation of tech professionals, focusing on industrial systems training and advanced manufacturing skills.
• Infrastructure Transformation: The transformation extends beyond education and into infrastructure, with a smart corridor project along US 84 already reducing commute times by 20%.
• Substantial Investment Attraction: These developments are attracting substantial investment, including a $35 million federal grant for downtown development. This investment is expected to create over 700 new jobs, positioning Waco as an emerging tech hub in Texas.

The transformation extends beyond education and into infrastructure, with a smart corridor project along US 84 already reducing commute times by 20%.

These developments are attracting substantial investment, including a $35 million federal grant for downtown development that's expected to create over 700 new jobs, positioning Waco as an emerging tech hub in Texas.

Waco's tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, marked by a 40% surge in tech companies, with over 200 firms now calling the city home.

The average tech salary has reached $95,000, making it an attractive destination for tech talent. This growth is bolstered by a recent $35 million federal grant aimed at developing a tech-friendly downtown area, expected to create over 700 new jobs.

Baylor University is leading the educational charge with innovative programs in AI and cybersecurity, offering students hands-on experience through the Central Texas Cyber Range.

The city's transformation is further accelerated by an expected 18% rise in tech job openings by 2026, with particular demand in cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity roles.

The implementation of a smart corridor project along US 84, supported by a $4.8 million RAISE grant, demonstrates Waco's commitment to sustainable urban tech development, already reducing commute times by 20%.

Local success stories like Trango Tech, with its impressive 90% talent retention rate, showcase the city's potential for sustainable tech growth. This convergence of educational advancement, infrastructure development, and job creation is transforming Waco into a competitive tech hub while maintaining its characteristic quality of life.

Waco's emergence as a thriving tech hub in 2025 is marked by unprecedented growth, with over 200 tech companies now calling the city home and average tech salaries reaching $95,000.

The tech sector is experiencing a remarkable 32% increase in job opportunities since 2021, fueled by major developments like VanTran Transformers' expansion creating 700 new jobs and Electrolit's $400 million manufacturing facility.

The city's educational landscape is evolving rapidly, with TSTC breaking ground on a 126,000-square-foot technical programs building set to open in Spring 2026, focusing on crucial areas like Building Construction Technology and Solar Energy Technology.

This growth is supported by robust infrastructure development, including smart city initiatives that have reduced commute times by 20%.

Local institutions like Baylor University are strengthening the talent pipeline through innovative programs in AI and cybersecurity, while the WacoTech Alliance continues fostering collaboration between industry and academia.

The city's commitment to technological advancement is further demonstrated through substantial investments in digital infrastructure and sustainable urban development, positioning Waco as a prime destination for tech professionals and companies seeking growth opportunities in Texas's dynamic tech ecosystem.