This Week's Latest Tech News in Winston Salem, NC - Sunday April 13th 2025 Edition

Winston-Salem's tech landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with tech job opportunities increasing by 52% and average salaries reaching $118,933.

The Innovation Quarter, now spanning 2 million square feet and hosting over 170 companies, serves as the epicenter of this transformation. Forsyth Tech's selection for the Education Design Lab's Reimagining Community College Challenge marks a significant step in advancing tech education.

The city has emerged as a leader in diversity, ranking #2 for women in tech. The Innovation Quarter's expansion includes an additional 1 million square feet of space and 15 acres of urban green space, generating a $1.66 billion economic impact and supporting over 8,300 jobs.

New initiatives include the Velocity Creative Accelerator and Flywheel New Ventures programs, while a $50 million venture fund supports tech innovation and workforce development.

With $348 million invested in approximately 70 new startups this year, Winston-Salem continues to strengthen its position as a leading tech hub in North Carolina.

Winston-Salem's tech scene is seriously leveling up through the Innovation Quarter, which has grown to encompass 2 million square feet and hosts over 170 companies.

The transformation is wild - the tech job market has exploded with a 52% increase in opportunities, pushing average salaries to $118,933. They've turned old industrial buildings into modern tech spaces, like the Bailey Power Plant that now houses restaurants, breweries, and creative workspaces.

The Innovation Quarter has become a major economic driver, generating a $1.66 billion impact and supporting more than 8,300 jobs.

The latest addition is the Winston Starts partnership, which is giving biotech startups access to state-of-the-art labs, mentorship, and up to 42 months of runway time.

This partnership has already helped 81 companies raise $134.7 million in capital. The area isn't just about work - it includes 15 acres of urban green space, complete with trails and community gathering spots.

Local educational institutions are stepping up too, with Forsyth Technical Community College offering 66 certificate programs and Winston-Salem State University achieving a 100% job placement rate in STEM fields.

The government's backing this growth with a $2 million investment in digital skills training, making sure everyone can get in on the tech boom. What started as a renovation project has turned into a full-blown tech revolution, putting Winston-Salem on the map as a top-10 biotech innovation hub that's drawing major attention from investors and talent alike.

Wake Forest University and Forsyth Technical Community College continue to reshape Winston-Salem's educational landscape in 2025. Through Wake Forest's new partnership with Springboard, students can now access intensive bootcamps in cybersecurity, data analytics, and software engineering, with additional programs in data science and AI launching later this year.

The university's commitment to tech education is further demonstrated through its robust campus technology infrastructure, including a 3,000-square-foot WakerSpace facility equipped with cutting-edge tools like 3D printers and laser cutters.

Wake Forest's dedication to innovation extends to healthcare technology, with the Wake Forest Innovations program actively turning research into marketable products through strategic commercial partnerships.

These initiatives have sparked a 30% increase in tech program enrollment over the past two years.

Forsyth Tech continues to evolve its curriculum through industry partnerships with local tech companies.

The institution's Cybersecurity Training Program has seen a 40% enrollment increase since 2024, offering specialized modules in threat detection and prevention.

Dr. Patricia Lee, head of Forsyth Tech's tech department, emphasizes their mission: "By aligning our curriculum with industry needs, we prepare our students not just to compete, but to lead in the tech sector."

The success of these educational reforms is evident in the employment outcomes, with 85% of graduates securing tech positions within six months of completion.

Both institutions are fostering an ecosystem of innovation and economic growth in Winston-Salem, creating a pipeline of skilled tech professionals ready to meet the demands of the digital economy.

The integration of practical, hands-on learning opportunities and industry-driven curriculum continues to attract students and employers alike, solidifying Winston-Salem's position as an emerging tech hub.

Winston-Salem is accelerating its renewable energy initiatives in 2025, marking significant progress toward its goal of 100% renewable energy by 2050.

The city recently completed installation of a 70-kilowatt solar system with 146 panels on the Bryce A. Stuart Municipal Building, offsetting 6% of the building's energy use.

This project, completed at $132,000 after rebates, demonstrates efficient use of public funds for sustainability. Local residents can now participate in Solarize the Triad, a community-led campaign offering competitive pricing for solar installations, with systems ranging from $2.20 to $2.35 per watt.

The initiative has already enabled 55 property owners to add renewable energy systems, resulting in CO2 reduction equivalent to growing 8,000 tree seedlings for a decade.

Homeowners interested in solar can benefit from Duke Energy's PowerPair program, which offers savings up to $9,000 for customers allowing remote management of their solar systems.

The federal Solar Investment Tax Credit covers 30% of installation costs, making solar more accessible to residents. Winston-Salem's commitment to renewable energy extends beyond individual installations, with the city actively evaluating additional municipal buildings for future solar projects.

These initiatives are creating local jobs, reducing carbon emissions, and positioning Winston-Salem as a leader in sustainable urban development in North Carolina.

Winston-Salem's startup scene is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, solidifying its position as the top-ranked city for business startup costs nationwide.

Through initiatives like Winston Starts, which has supported 81 companies and helped raise $134.7M in capital, the city has created a dynamic ecosystem for entrepreneurs.

The recently announced Founders' Journey 2025 program, scheduled for April 14-15, offers free resources and mentorship to scientists and early-stage founders, bridging the gap between research and commercialization.

The city's transformation from a manufacturing hub to a technology-focused powerhouse is evident in its diverse startup portfolio, with 33 companies currently in residence at Winston Starts.

This growth is supported by the city's ranking among the top 3 metros nationally for overall value and housing affordability, making it particularly attractive to emerging businesses.

The ecosystem's strength lies in its comprehensive support structure, offering state-of-the-art offices, expert mentorship, and valuable networking opportunities.

Startup employment rates continue to climb, with companies generating significant revenue and creating numerous job opportunities across various sectors, particularly in medicine, research, and finance.

The collaborative environment, fostered by partnerships between Innovation Quarter and Winston Starts, has established Winston-Salem as a premier destination for entrepreneurs looking to scale their ventures.

Winston-Salem's tech landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by strategic government initiatives and innovative partnerships. The city's 2030 Vision Plan focuses on infrastructure development, education, and workforce advancement, with $2 million specifically allocated for digital skills training and community access initiatives.

The Innovation Quarter, now spanning over 2 million square feet and hosting 170+ companies, demonstrates the success of public-private collaboration in creating a thriving tech ecosystem.

The local government's commitment extends to digital inclusion, with the Piedmont Triad Technology Council launching initiatives across a 12-county region. The impact is clear: tech job growth has surged 52% with average salaries reaching $118,933, while Winston-Salem has emerged as one of the top 10 biotech innovation hubs nationally.

The city's administration has fostered partnerships with educational institutions, resulting in 66 certificate and 26 diploma programs at Forsyth Technical Community College, achieving a 100% job placement rate in STEM fields.

This comprehensive approach includes support for minority-owned (26%) and women-owned (10%) businesses, alongside infrastructure improvements featuring 2,270 linear feet of trail extension and enhanced urban connectivity.

The economic impact is substantial, with the Innovation Quarter alone generating $1.66 billion and supporting over 8,300 jobs. Through these initiatives, Winston-Salem is rapidly establishing itself as a premier destination for tech innovation and entrepreneurship in the Southeast.

Winston-Salem's cybersecurity landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth, with projected workforce growth hitting 28% by 2026.

The city's educational institutions are stepping up to meet this demand, with Forsyth Tech leading the charge through their Davis iTEC Center, now recognized as a DHS/NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.

Entry-level cybersecurity positions in Winston-Salem are offering competitive salaries ranging from $68,500 to $88,000, making it an attractive career path for tech-savvy individuals.

At least five private institutions in Winston-Salem have expanded their cybersecurity programs, contributing to a 125% increase in program completions since 2020.

The city's tech ecosystem is particularly focused on cloud security and AI-driven security tools, with 72% of local companies actively recruiting talent. Students can now access various learning formats, including hybrid and fully online options, making education more accessible than ever.

Forsyth Tech's comprehensive program integrates forensic investigation, legal ethics, and cyber defense, preparing graduates for roles such as security analysts, incident response managers, and cloud security specialists.

The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience with industry-recognized certification paths, including CompTIA Security+, CISSP, and CEH. This robust educational foundation, combined with strong industry partnerships, positions Winston-Salem as an emerging hub for cybersecurity excellence, offering real opportunities for career growth and professional development in this critical field.

Winston-Salem is leveling up its tech game in 2025, with Wake Forest University's groundbreaking Master of AI Strategy and Innovation program leading the charge.

The program, priced at $38,940, combines technical expertise with strategic decision-making skills, preparing graduates for roles where AI expertise meets business leadership.

Over at the School of Medicine, the Center for Artificial Intelligence Research is pushing boundaries in healthcare AI applications, focusing on reducing health disparities and enhancing patient care quality.

• AI Education Expansion: The university's commitment to AI education extends to younger students through their AI Institute for high schoolers, offering hands-on experience with cutting-edge AI technologies and ethics training.
• Transforming into a Tech Hub: This comprehensive educational ecosystem is transforming Winston-Salem into a serious tech hub, with programs spanning from high school through graduate studies.
• Career Impact: Recent program graduates, such as Patricia Jones, are already making waves in the industry, with many landing roles in AI strategy and implementation across healthcare, business, and tech sectors.
• Leadership in AI: The city's educational institutions aren't just teaching tech - they're creating the next generation of AI leaders who understand both the technical and ethical implications of artificial intelligence.

With the global AI market projected to hit $1.8 trillion by 2030, Winston-Salem's strategic focus on AI education is perfectly timed to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in this rapidly expanding field.

Winston-Salem is making waves in tech-driven sustainability through its comprehensive environmental initiatives. The city's Sustainability Department is leading efforts to integrate social, environmental, and economic considerations into daily practices, with a focus on energy efficiency and climate action.

The innovative Bryce Stuart Municipal Building solar installation now provides live monitoring of energy production, demonstrating the city's commitment to renewable energy solutions.

In recognition of environmental leadership, the city's 2025 Sustainability Awards program celebrates exceptional projects and individuals in categories including Young Leader of the Year and Project of the Year, fostering community engagement in sustainable practices.

Local organizations are joining forces to amplify these efforts, with four major environmental initiatives currently reshaping the city's approach to sustainability, including DENT's creative reuse center and Island CultureZ's community agriculture projects.

These programs are complemented by tech-enabled solutions such as smart energy monitoring systems and advanced waste reduction technologies. The city's commitment to sustainability has already yielded tangible results, with municipal buildings showing significant reductions in energy consumption and associated costs.

Educational institutions, businesses, and community organizations are collaborating on various projects, from urban farming initiatives to renewable energy installations, creating a robust ecosystem of sustainable innovation.

As Winston-Salem continues to evolve, these tech-driven sustainability efforts are positioning the city as a leader in environmental stewardship while building a more resilient and environmentally conscious community.

Winston-Salem's tech ecosystem is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with tech job opportunities surging by 52% and average salaries reaching $118,933.

The Innovation Quarter, now spanning 2 million square feet and hosting over 170 companies, stands as the beating heart of this transformation. Recent data shows that the Quarter's economic impact has reached $1.66 billion, supporting more than 8,300 jobs across various sectors.

Local startups are crushing it, with over $50 million raised in the past three years, backed by innovative funding initiatives like the Winston-Salem Partners Roundtable Fund and Flywheel's New Ventures accelerator.

The collaboration between Wake Forest University and Forsyth Technical Community College is next-level, offering 66 certificate and 26 diploma programs that are totally in sync with what tech companies need right now.

These partnerships are creating real opportunities in cybersecurity, AI, and data analytics, making sure local talent is ready to jump into high-paying tech roles.

The city's ranking as #2 for women in tech and its focus on digital inclusion through a 12-county initiative shows how Winston-Salem is building a tech scene that's accessible to everyone.

With new accelerator programs like Velocity Creative and Flywheel New Ventures launching this year, plus a fresh $50 million venture fund for tech innovation, Winston-Salem is seriously leveling up its game in the national tech landscape.

Winston-Salem's tech scene is leveling up in 2025 with some major moves. Forsyth Technical Community College is leading the charge, rolling out innovative programs in cybersecurity, AI, and data analytics that are drawing serious attention.

The school just got picked for a groundbreaking redesign project, proving they're not just keeping up with tech trends - they're setting them. Tech meetups are popping up everywhere, with the Winston Salem IT Professionals Meetup bringing together coders and data pros for some next-level networking.

The Innovation Quarter keeps expanding its influence, now hosting regular tech talks and workshops that are drawing crowds from across the Triad region.

The city's really stepping up its game with the upcoming 2025 NC Manufacturing Conference at the Benton Convention Center, where tech innovation meets manufacturing muscle.

What's super cool is how the local tech community is getting behind initiatives that mix cutting-edge tech with practical applications. Forsyth Tech's career fairs are bringing in major players from both public and private sectors, creating direct pipelines for tech talent to flow into local industries.

The growth in tech startups has hit 45% this year, and with all these education and industry partnerships forming, Winston-Salem is seriously positioning itself as a tech hub that can hang with the bigger cities.

The vibe here isn't just about individual success - it's about building a tech ecosystem where innovation and community growth go hand in hand.

Winston-Salem's tech ecosystem is experiencing unprecedented growth, as evidenced by New Light Technologies' showcase of cutting-edge geospatial solutions at the 2025 NC GIS Conference.

The city's transformation into a tech hub gained momentum with Winston-Salem State University's groundbreaking partnership with Cisco, highlighting the growing collaboration between academia and industry leaders.

Local institutions are adapting to meet market demands, with Nucamp's Web Development Fundamentals bootcamp offering affordable entry points into tech careers at $458 during early bird registration.

The establishment of NLT's innovation center demonstrates the city's commitment to advancing artificial intelligence, cloud services, and cybersecurity solutions.

This strategic positioning has attracted over 50 private entities, contributing to a projected $200 million annual economic boost. The city's focus on practical skills training, particularly in data analytics and cybersecurity, has prepared more than 2,000 students for immediate workforce integration.

With a 35% increase in funded startups and enhanced government support through tax incentives, Winston-Salem is solidifying its position as a dynamic tech hub.

The fusion of educational excellence, government backing, and private sector collaboration creates a fertile ground for continued innovation and growth in the technology sector.