April was a milestone month for NC TECH — we welcomed a wave of new members and hosted several standout events across the state, including a Brews + Bytes in the Triad, our largest-ever Brews + Bytes + Insights at the MetLife Global Technology Hub in Cary, and the Charlotte Women in Tech Forum, which drew over 120 attendees for a powerful day of panels and keynote programming.
As we head into summer, there's plenty to look forward to. TechFest NC is just around the corner, and we're thrilled to be launching our AI Network — a new home for professionals at the intersection of artificial intelligence and industry. We're also continuing to build momentum behind our newly launched Cyber Security and Young Tech Professionals networks, both of which have hit the ground running. Stay tuned as we fill out the calendar with programming through the second half of the year.
TechFest NC is two weeks away — and we're heading into the home stretch with a lot to be excited about.
The agenda is finalized, new speakers and panelists have been added, and the full picture of what this experience looks like is finally here.
What's new: The speaker and panelist roster has grown — with fresh voices joining from across the tech ecosystem. From founders and innovators to industry leaders pushing the boundaries of technology, this year's lineup is built to spark real ideas and meaningful conversation.
The full experience, locked in: Across two days in Downtown Durham, TechFest NC brings together Tech Expo showcases, the Startup Showcase, mainstage sessions, and networking activations — all designed to help attendees connect, collaborate, and explore what's next in tech.
More than a conference: Set in downtown Durham's walkable district, TechFest NC transforms the city into a multi-venue experience — live programming, social events, local food, entertainment, and community connection all in one place!
Explore the finalized agenda and full speaker lineup at the official TechFest NC microsite, linked below. With over 400 people registered already, we hope you can join us for this must-attend event!
Learn More About TechFest North Carolina
Interested in sponsorship? Check out the TechFest North Carolina Sponsorship Menu and email Tracy Sternberg with any questions.
The Young Tech Professionals Network (YTPN) is a statewide community for early-career tech professionals looking to expand their network, build leadership skills, and get more involved in North Carolina’s tech ecosystem. Through engaging programs and peer connections, YTPN helps members grow both personally and professionally.
Why join YTPN:
With 60+ Young Tech Professionals already enrolled, don’t miss out—sign up today or share this opportunity with a teammate!
The CIO Executive Roundtable meets quarterly to discuss emerging topics, existing challenges, and strategies for organizational success. Participants engage in a virtual peer discussion with CIOs from various industries and from different regions across the state.
This event is invite only.
Get2Know NC TECH is our monthly informal virtual gathering meant for people thinking of joining NC TECH, or members who want a refresher on how to get involved in the tech community. Join us for this virtual event and meet other tech professionals and see how NC TECH plans to help advance our state’s robust tech ecosystem. This event is free and available to both members and non-members.
The CISO Executive Roundtable meets quarterly to discuss emerging topics, existing challenges, and strategies for organizational success. Participants engage in a virtual peer discussion with CISOs from various industries and from different regions across the state.
This event is invite only.
The NC TECH Cyber Security Network connects professionals, executives, and practitioners across North Carolina who are focused on protecting digital assets and managing cyber risk. Through quarterly programs held across the state, participants share insights, explore emerging threats, and discuss best practices in cybersecurity strategy, governance, and innovation. The Network provides an opportunity for collaboration among peers from technology companies, enterprises, government, and academia to strengthen North Carolina’s cybersecurity ecosystem.
This quarter, we will have a briefing on the maritime cybersecurity, followed by a panel on the current threats related to AI and cybersecurity.
Join Tamar Shapiro, Chief Data and Analytics Officer with MetLife, along with other technology leaders as they highlight the Global Technology Hub in Cary, NC. The speakers will share insights into their culture, technology teams, career paths, and open roles. You’ll also hear directly from an early career team member about their experiences, professional development opportunities, and what it’s really like to work there. MetLife has recently opened several roles targeted to recent graduates and those with under 4 years of experience.
This monthly webinar is for new (and long-term) members interested in leveraging resources and plugging into our dynamic member community. Learn how to navigate Member InfoHub and engage with NC TECH Connect, our virtual community. We will showcase online resources such as the Marketing Toolkit and Member Directory. Tune in to become ‘savvy’ on how to make the most of your membership.
Meet representatives from Deutsche Bank and learn about the organization, the tech-focused Cary campus, the company culture and current opportunities.
For more about the local facility, visit Cary - Our Technology Hub in the Americas. Learn about career opportunities and view an interactive brochure featuring an overview of the Cary technology center, business areas, life at Deutsche Bank, and open roles.
Join Tamar Shapiro, Chief Data and Analytics Officer with MetLife, along with other technology leaders as they highlight the Global Technology Hub in Cary, NC. The speakers will share insights into their culture, technology teams, career paths, and open roles. You’ll also hear directly from an early career team member about their experiences, professional development opportunities, and what it’s really like to work there. MetLife has recently opened several roles targeted to recent graduates and those with under 4 years of experience.
Meet representatives from Deutsche Bank and learn about the organization, the tech-focused Cary campus, the company culture and current opportunities.
For more about the local facility, visit Cary - Our Technology Hub in the Americas. Learn about career opportunities and view an interactive brochure featuring an overview of the Cary technology center, business areas, life at Deutsche Bank, and open roles.
Welcome March New Members
Member Companies
Board of Advisors
Praneetha Poloju | Strategic Industry Advisor | Scrip Labs
From time to time, NC TECH will partner with organizations to connect members with local events and share perks such as free or discounted registration. Are you an NC TECH member with an event to share with fellow members? To submit an event, complete the form at the link below.
Written by: Greg Boone, CEO at Walk West
North Carolina's technology sector has never lacked ambition, and on the subject of artificial intelligence, that ambition is outrunning execution at most organizations.
Written by: Sandeep Sastry
AI is everywhere—but is it actually delivering? This blog cuts through the hype to explore what’s really happening inside enterprises, where adoption is slower, messier, and more complex than headlines suggest. From stalled pilots to the rise of agentic AI, here’s what it takes to move from buzz to real impact.
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