This Week's Latest Tech News in San Bernardino, CA - Sunday April 6th 2025 Edition

San Bernardino's tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth, with projected startup growth of 25% by 2024 and an average tech salary reaching $88,840.

Major players like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google are establishing substantial presence, with Apple investing $445 million in a 67-acre campus aiming to employ 5,000 workers by 2026.

The California Employment Development Department projects up to 20,000 computer-specific job openings this decade in the Inland Empire, particularly in cybersecurity, software engineering, and AI development.

Local success stories like KIGT Inc. in electric vehicle charging and Exquadrum in advanced systems demonstrate the region's innovation potential. The city's commitment to tech growth is reinforced by strategic initiatives including incubator programs and partnerships with educational institutions.

Supporting this expansion, the area offers competitive advantages with affordable living costs and robust digital infrastructure.

• Key sectors driving growth: include fintech, clean tech, and cybersecurity.
• Specialized tech clusters: are emerging in logistics, healthcare, and renewable energy.
• Strategic initiatives: involve incubator programs and partnerships with educational institutions.

Positioning San Bernardino as a premier destination for tech professionals and entrepreneurs.

San Bernardino's renewable energy sector is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, marked by the launch of the Condor Energy Storage Project in Grand Terrace.

This 400-megawatt facility, featuring Tesla's Megapack systems, will power up to 150,000 homes during peak demand. The project represents a major economic boost, generating $25 million in property tax payments over its lifespan.

Local tech startups are capitalizing on this momentum, with some participating in community solar initiatives that offer 10% savings on monthly electricity costs to residents.

The region's commitment to sustainable technology has attracted significant investment, including the development of battery storage facilities across 43 acres.

Notable progress is seen in innovations like Clearway Energy's Daggett Solar + Storage power plant, which demonstrates how existing infrastructure can be repurposed for renewable energy solutions.

This facility alone creates over 500 local union jobs and contributes $210 million to the local economy. The surge in renewable energy startups is transforming San Bernardino into a clean energy hub, with companies focusing on solar integration, energy storage solutions, and smart grid technologies.

These developments are supported by active public-private partnerships and align with California's ambitious clean energy goals, positioning San Bernardino at the forefront of the state's renewable energy transition.

San Bernardino's tech landscape continues to evolve, with SBVC's inaugural Techtopia conference setting new standards for innovation and engagement.

The event showcased groundbreaking developments in AI and cybersecurity, featuring dynamic speakers like Dr. Joseph Bonivel, Jr. and technology executive Bala Meduri.

Building on this momentum, San Bernardino's startup ecosystem has achieved remarkable growth, with a projected 25% increase in tech ventures for 2025.

• Innovative drone logistics: This growth is particularly evident in sectors like drone logistics, where companies like SkyHigh Solutions have reduced delivery times by 25% and cut logistics costs by 30%.
• Commitment to technological advancement: The city's commitment to technological advancement is further demonstrated through innovative initiatives at CSUSB's xREAL Lab, where extended reality technologies are being integrated into various fields including education and healthcare.
• Fostering technological growth: Recent developments include the establishment of a $12.5 million Transportation and Advanced Technology Center, highlighting the region's dedication to fostering technological growth.
• Addressing real-world challenges: Local companies are actively addressing real-world challenges through AI-powered solutions, advanced robotics, and green technology initiatives, positioning San Bernardino as an emerging force in California's tech landscape.

The synergy between academic institutions, tech startups, and industry leaders has created a robust environment for innovation, with particular emphasis on sustainable solutions and digital transformation.

In 2025, San Bernardino's educational landscape is experiencing a remarkable transformation through innovative partnerships and programs. The Community Summit 2025 has brought together educators, families, and tech industry leaders to strengthen the city's educational framework.

The initiative has expanded beyond basic coding classes to include comprehensive tech education programs, with significant funding allocated by the Board of Supervisors for facility improvements and educational resources.

• Increase in Student Engagement: According to recent data, this investment has led to a 24% increase in student engagement with tech-focused learning.
• Reach and Impact: The program now reaches over 49,000 students across the district, with particularly strong results in areas where innovative learning models have been implemented.
• Skill Development: Students engage with cutting-edge technologies while developing crucial problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Curriculum Enhancements: The curriculum now includes advanced programming languages, artificial intelligence basics, and real-world project applications.
• Community Feedback: Community feedback shows that 92% of participants feel better prepared for future careers in technology.
• Industry Partnerships: Local tech companies have started offering internships and mentorship programs, creating direct pathways to employment.
• Practical Implementation: These partnerships have already resulted in several student-led projects being implemented in local businesses, showcasing the practical impact of the program.
• Future Evolution: The initiative continues to evolve, incorporating feedback from industry professionals and adapting to emerging tech trends, ensuring San Bernardino students remain competitive in the rapidly changing digital landscape.

San Bernardino's Smart City initiative is making waves with the launch of its Smart County Master Plan, which aims to revolutionize transportation and connectivity across all 24 cities in the region.

The initiative has already achieved notable success with the integration of AI-driven traffic systems, reducing congestion by 15% across major intersections.

Under a new $2.5 million contract awarded to Iteris, the city is expanding its smart traffic coordination system while developing comprehensive mobility solutions.

The project stands out as one of the most ambitious smart city transformations in the U.S., with a focus on sustainable transportation and universal broadband access.

Working alongside the SBCTA/SBCOG Emerging Technology Ad Hoc Committee, the city is implementing cutting-edge technologies to enhance traffic flow and connectivity across the San Bernardino Valley.

Recent developments include the deployment of IoT sensors for real-time traffic monitoring, public Wi-Fi coverage reaching 90% of urban areas, and a smart parking system that has boosted efficiency by 20%. The initiative is part of a larger vision to create a more connected and efficient urban environment, with plans for electric and autonomous public transit solutions expected to increase ridership by 25% over the next five years.

This digital transformation isn't just about traffic management - it's reshaping how residents interact with city services, making San Bernardino a model for smart city development in Southern California.

San Bernardino County's tech landscape is getting a major upgrade with the Board of Supervisors' approval of several significant IT contracts. A comprehensive cybersecurity initiative worth $1.16 million has been established with NetBrain Technologies Inc., strengthening the county's digital infrastructure.

The county is also investing heavily in law enforcement technology, with over $10.3 million allocated for advanced police training systems, including virtual reality programs.

The tech transformation extends to healthcare, where Arrowhead Regional Medical Center is receiving critical upgrades to its power systems and payment processing infrastructure.

Under CIO Susan Williams' leadership, the county's IT department now manages an impressive digital ecosystem of over 17,800 email accounts, 21,700 phones, and 16,500 desktops.

The implementation of modern record digitization services through partnerships with Corodata Records Management and Konica Minolta Business Solutions aims to streamline administrative processes through 2031.

These investments are creating new tech job opportunities while modernizing public services. Local tech professionals can expect expanded career options as the county continues to prioritize digital transformation across all departments.

The focus on cybersecurity, law enforcement technology, and healthcare systems modernization demonstrates San Bernardino's commitment to building a robust, secure, and efficient digital infrastructure for its residents and employees.

San Bernardino's green tech scene is experiencing major breakthroughs in 2025, with SBCTA leading a revolutionary zero-emission rail project that's transforming public transportation.

The project, featuring hydrogen-powered trains that emit only water vapor, demonstrates the region's commitment to sustainable innovation. In parallel, Tesla's expansion has catalyzed growth in renewable tech jobs, while local startups are securing significant funding for clean energy initiatives.

The county's ambitious clean energy vision includes a massive 394-MW solar array and battery storage system near Barstow, representing a $1 billion investment in sustainable infrastructure.

These developments are complemented by breakthrough hydrogen innovations from companies like Utility Global, which ranked among TIME's top GreenTech companies of 2025.

The integration of these technologies is creating a robust ecosystem for sustainable development, with local tech firms focusing on practical solutions for hard-to-abate industries.

Community initiatives include training programs for emerging green tech careers, ensuring that local talent can access the growing number of sustainable technology jobs.

Through these collaborative efforts, San Bernardino is rapidly becoming a hub for clean tech innovation, combining environmental responsibility with economic growth.

TechForward Solutions, led by co-founder James Thompson, has established itself as a key player in San Bernardino's evolving tech landscape.

The company has shifted its focus to become a dual-specialized firm, offering both Salesforce consulting and talent recruitment services to help organizations maximize their tech investments.

Under Thompson's leadership, TechForward Solutions has maintained strong partnerships with nonprofits and small businesses, providing comprehensive training programs and ongoing support services.

The company's emphasis on fostering inclusive tech environments has attracted talent from neighboring areas, with many tech professionals relocating to the region.

Their initiatives include providing Salesforce implementation services to nonprofits, helping organizations streamline processes and effectively manage data. Through their Trailblazer Series and community workshops, TechForward Solutions continues to advocate for inclusivity in tech while helping individuals build successful careers.

The company's impact is evident in the increasing number of local organizations adopting Salesforce solutions and the growing pool of certified professionals in the area.

Looking ahead, TechForward Solutions plans to expand its training programs and support services, focusing on creating more opportunities for tech career development in San Bernardino.

The company's commitment to fostering a collaborative environment where innovation thrives has positioned them as a catalyst for technological advancement in the region.

Their practical approach to tech education and implementation has made complex systems accessible to local organizations, contributing to the area's digital transformation.

San Bernardino's transformation into a tech education leader is backed by concrete results. The district's innovative plans include a $70 million investment in learning initiatives through 2024, focusing on personalized learning and technology integration.

The approach is comprehensive - while recent CAASPP scores showed challenges with 18% math and 34% English proficiency, the district has responded with targeted solutions.

The EdTech Coaches Network plays a crucial role, bringing together educators from San Bernardino and Riverside counties to share best practices in educational technology and 21st Century Learning Design.

What sets San Bernardino apart is its systematic approach to digital equity - the county's innovative data portal makes educational metrics accessible and actionable, serving nearly 400,000 students across 33 districts.

The district's Site Educational Technology Coach program ensures consistent tech integration at all schools, with coaches providing regular professional development and modeling best practices.

Beyond just equipment access, San Bernardino focuses on meaningful technology integration, offering students hands-on experience with current tools and preparing them for future careers.

This comprehensive strategy has positioned San Bernardino as a model for other cities, demonstrating how targeted tech education initiatives can create lasting impact.

The district's commitment to both infrastructure and instruction shows that effective tech education requires more than just devices - it needs a supportive ecosystem of trained educators, accessible data, and strategic implementation.

The tech sector in San Bernardino continues its remarkable expansion, with recent labor market data showing the region's unemployment rate holding steady at 5.3% as of January 2025, significantly better than some neighboring areas.

The city's workforce landscape is evolving rapidly, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors. According to the San Bernardino County Workforce Development Board, there are projected to be 20,000 computer-specific job openings in the Inland Empire over the next decade, with salaries often exceeding $100,000.

The ripple effect of this growth extends beyond direct employment, as the tech sector now contributes $3.9 billion to the local GDP, with an impressive 18% growth projection.

• Cybersecurity and software engineering are notable areas of expansion, with salaries starting at $72,553 and reaching up to $200,000+ for specialized roles.
• The healthcare IT sector is emerging as a bright spot, offering positions with annual salaries up to $147,005.
• Local educational institutions are adapting their curricula to meet the growing demand, enhancing San Bernardino's attractiveness.

Local educational institutions, including California State University San Bernardino's top-ranked cybersecurity program and various community colleges, are actively adapting their curricula to meet this growing demand.

This educational pipeline, combined with the region's strategic location and lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs, positions San Bernardino as an increasingly attractive destination for both tech companies and professionals.

San Bernardino's tech evolution showcases the power of community and government collaboration in driving innovation. The county's Innovation and Technology Department has achieved national recognition, ranking 6th in the Center for Digital Government's 2024 survey, demonstrating its commitment to technological advancement.

The impact is evident in the local job market, where tech employment has grown by 11.5%, with AI and cybersecurity positions leading the demand.

The county's recent deployment of NetBrain automation for enhanced cybersecurity reflects this progressive approach. Community engagement has been key, with initiatives like the San Bernardino Tech Alliance providing networking opportunities and resources for entrepreneurs.

The economic contribution from these tech initiatives has reached $3.9 billion, showcasing the sector's significant impact on the local economy. Public-private partnerships continue to thrive, with major infrastructure improvements underway, including street repairs and facility modernization projects that support tech business growth.

The city's commitment extends to sustainability efforts, with partnerships driving the implementation of smart city solutions. Looking ahead, San Bernardino is expanding its tech incubator programs and planning regular hackathons to address urban challenges.

With 87% of hiring managers prioritizing AI experience and average salaries for skilled tech professionals exceeding $200,000, the region is positioning itself as a competitive tech hub.

This collaborative approach between government, industry, and community stakeholders continues to foster an environment where innovation thrives, ensuring sustainable growth and economic prosperity for the region.

San Bernardino's tech landscape is experiencing a remarkable transformation, anchored by the recent opening of the $101 million Applied Technology Building at Valley College.

This state-of-the-art facility, spanning nearly 115,000 square feet, represents a significant leap forward in technical education, offering cutting-edge programs in automation, electronics, and sustainable technologies.

The local tech ecosystem is further strengthened by the development of major infrastructure projects, including the Cucamonga Station's high-speed rail link and The Resort's 220,000-square-foot mixed-use development.

With Nucamp's Full Stack Web Development bootcamp now offering specialized Google Cloud content and the Women in Tech scholarship program, the pathway to tech careers has become more accessible than ever.

The city's commitment to innovation is exemplified by the SBCTA's groundbreaking Zero-Emission Multiple Unit (ZEMU) project, positioning San Bernardino at the forefront of sustainable transportation technology.

• Enhanced Tech Education: The new Applied Technology Building offers programs in automation, electronics, and sustainable technologies.
• Major Infrastructure Developments: Projects like the Cucamonga Station's high-speed rail link and The Resort are strengthening the local tech ecosystem.
• Accessible Tech Careers: Specialized content and scholarships at Nucamp are making tech careers more accessible.
• Innovation in Transportation: The SBCTA's ZEMU project is positioning San Bernardino as a leader in sustainable transportation.

These developments, combined with the region's growing logistics and distribution sector, are creating a robust tech-enabled economy that's attracting both established companies and startups.

The transformation extends beyond infrastructure, with local institutions fostering a new generation of tech talent through hands-on training in industrial automation, computer numerical control, and advanced manufacturing.

This convergence of education, infrastructure, and innovation is establishing San Bernardino as a emerging tech hub, promising sustainable growth and diverse career opportunities in the digital age.