This Week's Latest Tech News in McKinney, TX - Sunday April 27th 2025 Edition

McKinney, TX continues to stand out as a regional tech powerhouse in 2025, with its tech sector now contributing 25% to the city's GDP and attracting over $1.5 billion in investments since 2020.

These efforts have created more than 5,000 tech jobs and supported the growth of 200+ startups, while the opening of a new 50,000-square-foot Tech Hub is set to add 1,200 jobs focused on AI and cybersecurity this year (key McKinney tech milestones).

The city’s focus on smart infrastructure includes the implementation of a new AI-driven traffic management system scheduled for July 2025, projected to save commuters 33 hours annually and reduce emissions by 10% (smart city developments).

Education is keeping pace, as Collin College recently launched new Data Science and AI programs and McKinney ISD offers students access to tech-forward learning to meet workforce demands.

Industry giants like Raytheon Technologies are also investing heavily, creating advanced manufacturing centers and hundreds of skilled jobs in McKinney (Raytheon's advanced manufacturing).

This momentum delivers both inspiration and tangible opportunity to local professionals and students.

This week, McKinney reached an important milestone with the opening of a major tech innovation facility - now home to the new AI Startup Hub, conveniently situated as part of the city’s 50,000-square-foot Tech Hub and recently completed Municipal Complex.

Unlike traditional co-working spaces, this hub is designed as a central driver for local AI and cybersecurity innovation, aiming to support more than 30 startups in its first year while providing access to advanced technology resources and tailored programs.

The McKinney Economic Development Corporation’s innovation fund can offer non-dilutive capital grants and startup support, and the city’s partnership with Plug and Play brings global startup accelerator expertise right to McKinney’s doorstep, focusing efforts on enterprise solutions and AI startups (learn more about the MEDC program).

The Tech Hub is projected to generate more than 1,200 new jobs in its first year, further cementing McKinney’s commitment to tech sector growth and its goal of becoming the “AI Hub of Texas” (read this week’s tech update).

Local leaders have highlighted the collaborative design and central location of the new municipal complex, emphasizing its role in fostering civic life and supporting community engagement through modern amenities and flexible event spaces (see details about the municipal complex opening).

Aspiring entrepreneurs will find a welcoming environment at the AI Startup Hub, with resources including:

• Regular networking is facilitated through weekly pitch sessions that connect founders with investors and mentors.
• Educational growth is prioritized in workshops on AI, product development, business ethics, and more.
• Access to cutting-edge technology comes with complimentary tools and datasets in the Innovation Lab.
• Community support is reflected in the discounted memberships available for McKinney residents.

Table: Key Features of McKinney AI Startup Hub

Feature	Details	Lead Contact
Startups Supported (Year 1)	30+	Jennifer Lee
Potential New Tech Jobs by 2026	250+	Susan Smith
Mentorship Programs	Available Weekly	Mary Gonzalez
Business Funding Access	Grants and access to regional investor pool	Jennifer Lee

As the city welcomes this new era, the hub is offering McKinney’s students, professionals, and founders direct access to resources and opportunities that can turn learning and ambition into real growth.

The combination of modern infrastructure, city support, and a national innovation network makes McKinney’s hub a vital step toward the community’s larger tech future.

McKinney ISD introduced its district-wide coding curriculum this week, rolling out coding and STEAM instruction across all grade levels for the 2025 school year.

This move expands on the district’s ongoing efforts to give students hands-on experience with technology, starting as early as elementary school. Students in grades 1-5 have been training with Lego Spike robotics kits as part of the new STEAM curriculum, while third and fourth graders are already tackling coding basics through programmable Lego activities.

These initiatives, led by Patricia Garcia, are designed to engage younger learners with interactive lessons, helping students develop foundational skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and logic as they move through the grades (Bennett Elementary News).

For older students, the curriculum builds on these basics by incorporating more advanced programming languages and offering access to high school-level Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways - including subjects like Programming & Software Development, Cybersecurity, and Graphic Design.

Through CTE, students can earn industry-recognized certifications and participate in real-world coding projects that support their transition to college or entry-level tech jobs (CTE Programs Spotlight).

The district supports families with resources for academic planning, course selection, and information about tech-related extracurriculars, ensuring students have accessible pathways to tech careers (Academic Planning Guides).

Key features of McKinney ISD’s curriculum include:

• Project-based, hands-on learning provides an engaging way for students to connect real-world tech concepts with classroom instruction.
• Extracurricular events such as hackathons and coding competitions encourage student collaboration and sustained interest in technology.
• Clear career pathways create opportunities for students to earn certifications, gain work experience, and access advanced placement in tech fields.

By working closely with local industry partners and providing early exposure to coding and STEAM practices, McKinney ISD is giving students the tools they need for future tech education and workforce opportunities.

As Joseph Thomas notes,

These efforts support the district’s broader mission of preparing students for evolving STEM careers and fostering a community ready to meet tomorrow’s technology needs.

The opening of a Silicon Valley-backed data center in McKinney signals a pivotal moment for the city's growing tech ecosystem in 2025. This new facility, part of a broader national trend of expanding digital infrastructure to meet the rising needs driven by AI, cloud computing, and the rapid growth of data, stands out for its size and strategic location.

McKinney has become an attractive destination due to its competitive electricity rates, reliable network access, abundant space for development, and its connectivity to the broader Dallas tech corridor.

These factors mirror why leading firms are choosing locations like McKinney for high-density data center investment, as outlined by the ongoing expansion of data center projects across the country and the increasing need for robust regional capacity - trends highlighted in detail by Property Manager Insider.

• Main advantage: McKinney offers competitive electricity rates that draw significant tech investments.
• Connectivity hub: The city provides a reliable network and direct links to Dallas’ broader tech corridor.
• Room for growth: Abundant development space makes McKinney an ideal destination for expanding infrastructure.

During the build, the center generated 300+ construction jobs and is now home to 75 permanent high-skill positions in roles such as data management, cybersecurity, and facilities operations.

In addition, partnerships with local colleges and programs ensure a stream of trained talent and tie into the city’s broader workforce strategy, part of an effort echoed by other leading industry players who are creating secure, sustainable, and highly connected data environments nationwide.

Facilities like those from VPLS in Santa Clara and the aggressive sustainability efforts by STACK Infrastructure reflect the same priorities now taking shape in McKinney.

Key Metric	Details	Primary Impact
Local Jobs	75 permanent, 300+ construction	Boosts employment for McKinney residents
Annual Local Tax	$1.5 million	Strengthens city finances
Fiber Network Expansion	15 miles installed	Increases connectivity

Jessica Miller, a senior project lead on the build, commented, "This development marks a new era for McKinney, placing us firmly on the map among America’s most future-ready tech cities."

The investment’s impact is reflected in an estimated $1.5 million in annual local tax contributions, a projected 40% boost to McKinney’s digital infrastructure capacity, and the installation of 15 new miles of fiber network.

As the city strengthens its backbone for fintech, healthcare, and cloud-driven businesses, local companies and residents benefit from more reliable service and new pathways into tech.

This development not only supports the city’s economic outlook but reinforces McKinney’s standing as an emerging tech and data center hub for the region.

The spotlight is on McKinney as its student robotics team celebrates a significant achievement: advancing to the 2025 National FIRST Robotics Competition. The McKinney robotics community, including notable teams such as the Mercenaries and other local groups, demonstrates resilience and dedication - especially noteworthy given recent seasons.

One standout story involves the McKinney Mercenaries, who, after nearly folding with just one student back in 2021, rebuilt their team and grew to 28 members, earning the prestigious FIRST Impact Award and placing third in their division at state.

Although they narrowly missed world championship qualification, their journey is widely viewed as a testament to collaboration and perseverance (read the Mercenaries' story).

Barbara Rodriguez, a McKinney resident, remarked, "The dedication and teamwork I've witnessed in these students is truly inspiring. Their journey is a powerful example of what perseverance and support can achieve."

• The Mercenaries' turnaround highlights resilience and collaboration, as the team rebuilt from one student to 28, earning state accolades and recognition.
• The FIRST Robotics Championship gathers global teams and fosters STEM networking, providing young innovators with exposure to international engineering challenges (explore the 2025 National Championship event).
• Real-world engineering problems faced by students at FIRST include ocean-themed challenges, which build teamwork, technical, and leadership skills (see how teams prepared for nationals).

Key Supporters	Contributions	Impact
Local Educators	Mentoring, workshops	Building student skillsets and fostering passion for STEM
Businesses & Sponsors	Financial support, equipment	Enabling resource access and national competition participation
Community Volunteers	Outreach programs	Expanding opportunities for youth engagement in robotics

Support from local educators, businesses, and sponsors has been pivotal in helping McKinney teams access resources and reach the national stage.

Continued engagement through workshops and STEM outreach ensures that more students can find their place in robotics, discover new passions, and build essential STEM skills for future careers.

The recent McKinney Tech Job Fair, hosted on April 25, 2025 at the McKinney Convention Center, attracted more than 700 job seekers and 40 tech employers, highlighting McKinney’s growing reputation as a tech employment destination.

In addition to major employers like Raytheon Technologies and Texas Instruments, the event featured a range of fast-growing startups and specialized firms.

Employers offered varied tech opportunities, emphasizing the city’s appeal to IT professionals. This aligns with a similar job fair held at the WSNCT McKinney Workforce Center, which focused on diverse roles and encouraged attendees to dress professionally and have an updated profile on WorkInTexas.com (more event details here).

The fair facilitated approximately 540 on-site interviews and recruiters reported a noticeable increase in the quality of applicants. Roles in high demand included:

• Software Developer: Growing opportunities for skilled programmers as tech firms expand in McKinney.
• Data Analyst: Businesses are seeking insightful data experts to leverage analytics for growth.
• Cybersecurity Specialist: Heightened needs for cyber defense specialists due to increasing digital threats.
• Network Engineer: Demand rises for IT infrastructure professionals to support expanding business networks.
• UX/UI Designer: Companies want creative designers to enhance user experience in digital products.

For jobseekers, preparation played a key role.

Recommendations from career coaches advised researching companies, tailoring resumes, and practicing professional introductions ahead of events like these (tips to prepare for a career fair).

The fair organizers partnered with platforms like JobFairX, where job seekers are matched with registered employers based on skills and background, and participation was free for those with scheduled interviews (participation details here).

According to a pulse survey at the event, 78% of employers anticipated making multiple hires in the coming months - a strong local signal for tech job growth. Attendees appreciated the opportunity to connect directly with companies, while feedback indicated the event’s ongoing impact on employment in the McKinney area.

Collin College’s expansion of its cybersecurity program in McKinney is creating new pathways for aspiring professionals and directly meeting high workforce demand.

The college now offers its Bachelor of Applied Technology (BAT) in Cybersecurity, an applied, hands-on degree that covers penetration testing, defensive operations, basic cryptography, and cybercrime policy.

This program has seen a significant uptick in enrollment, with community data showing more than a 20% increase in students pursuing cybersecurity at Collin from the 2022-23 to 2023-24 academic year, reflecting both local and national hiring trends.

• Central theme: Collin College offers a comprehensive, hands-on cybersecurity degree.
  Summary: The cybersecurity program provides applied instruction and essential career skills for students.
• Central theme: Significant enrollment growth reflects workforce demand.
  Summary: Enrollment in the cybersecurity program has increased over 20%, mirroring strong hiring trends.
• Central theme: Graduates are well-prepared for various cybersecurity roles.
  Summary: Students can pursue careers as entry-level analysts to advanced architects and incident responders.
• Central theme: Collin’s impact is measurable and growing rapidly.
  Summary: Over 1,000 cybersecurity credentials were conferred last academic year alone.
• Central theme: The program’s NSA recognition supports its credibility.
  Summary: Collin is classified as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.
• Central theme: Industry partnerships benefit students and the local workforce.
  Summary: Companies like JPMorgan Chase and local agencies hire Collin-trained professionals for critical roles.

"Collin’s graduates are prepared for careers ranging from entry-level security analyst roles to more advanced security architect and incident responder positions, meeting the needs of North Texas employers who report large gaps in their cybersecurity teams." - Susan Moore

Year	Enrollment Increase (%)	Cybersecurity Graduates
2022-23	-	80
2023-24	20	160

For McKinney, where job growth in cybersecurity roles is outpacing national averages, Collin’s curriculum (built on a strong foundation in networking and system administration) ensures graduates hit the workforce job-ready.

The program’s recognition as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA also adds credibility for both students and their future employers.

As companies like JPMorgan Chase and local government agencies seek skilled candidates, Collin College’s updated program serves as a pipeline for local talent, offering lab-based certifications and connections to ongoing industry advancements.

• Central theme: Program expansion addresses regional job market needs.
  Summary: Collin aligns its curriculum with local workforce and employer requirements.
• Central theme: Students gain industry-recognized certifications.
  Summary: Graduates hold lab-based certifications that open doors to immediate employment.
• Central theme: Ongoing program development keeps pace with industry.
  Summary: The college adapts to industry advancements to benefit its students and the larger community.

To learn more about Collin College’s cybersecurity programs, visit the department’s official overview here, explore program degree and certificate options here, and see the latest news on enrollment growth and outcomes here.

McKinney is making significant progress in transportation innovation with the rollout of its new Smart Traffic System, officially set for operational launch in July 2025.

Unlike traditional traffic systems, McKinney’s upgrade features a $550,000 investment in AI and IoT-powered smart traffic management, utilizing real-time data and networked sensors for dynamic signal control.

The city is coordinating with industry partners to implement technologies such as adaptive traffic signals, emergency vehicle priority detection, and pedestrian and cyclist monitoring across seven key intersections.

• Smart investments are driving transportation innovation, thanks to advanced AI and IoT that enable McKinney’s new traffic management system.
• Coordination with industry partners supports technologies like adaptive signals and safety features for a more efficient commute.
• The system will provide annual savings of 33 hours in travel time per commuter and reduce citywide emissions by 10% through smarter signaling (Tech News in McKinney).

The new system, launched in partnership with Traffic Technology Services, incorporates advanced software like MAXTIME intersection control, which has been successfully used in other North Texas cities and ensures efficient intersection timing - especially important during emergencies and peak hours (Q-Free and Texas Highway Products).

City officials, including Lisa Jackson, highlight that improved smart signaling will help reduce intersection accidents, enhance emergency response, and lower emissions due to less idling.

Metric	Previous System	Smart System (Projected)
Annual Hours Saved (per commuter)	0	33
Emission Reduction (%)	0%	10%
Travel Duration Reduction (%)	0%	12%

Residents have already reported improved commute times, and 78% support continued tech investments to boost quality of life.

The upcoming integration of new traffic signals, sensors, and smart traffic apps reinforces McKinney’s goal of serving as a model for sustainable urban development (McKinney Smart City Initiative).

• The community is experiencing better commute times and strong support for future technology investments.
• New traffic signals, sensors, and smart apps will help McKinney serve as a sustainability model for other cities.

As implementation rolls out, the community can look forward to faster commutes, safer roads, and a more sustainable city environment that puts both data and residents at the center of progress.

McKinney’s progress on digital inclusion took an interesting turn this week as Connect2Tech, a local nonprofit focused on bridging the digital divide, announced it was among those recommended for a $1.2 million Digital Equity Grant through the Texas Broadband Development Office.

However, with Texas recently pausing all grants tied to the federal State Digital Equity Capacity Grant Program while awaiting further guidance from Washington, the timeline for receiving these funds is now uncertain.

Despite the pause, funding for digital equity remains a critical topic statewide and nationally, as Texas and other states have developed digital opportunity plans to address gaps in technology access and digital skills for underserved populations amid the ongoing funding freeze.

The Connect2Tech grant, if released, is designed to expand technology access for over 4,500 low-income families, seniors, and students in McKinney’s underserved neighborhoods.

Project plans include:

• Free community Wi-Fi hotspots are aimed at helping bridge immediate gaps in internet access for underserved areas.
• Bilingual digital literacy workshops target both English and Spanish speakers to build essential tech skills for success.
• Subsidized laptop distribution will empower students and families by making technology more affordable and accessible.
• Workforce upskilling programs help individuals boost their digital skills and improve employment opportunities.

These initiatives match statewide goals to increase digital literacy, device access, and broadband connectivity outlined in the Texas Digital Opportunity Plan.

While the grant is recommended and not rescinded, Connect2Tech and similar organizations across Texas are in a holding pattern as the state aligns with a federal review of digital equity programs and their mandates.

Nationally, $619 million from the Digital Equity Act was tapped by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration earlier this year, funding projects like digital skills workshops and device distribution through nonprofits, cities, and universities - even as political debates play out over program priorities and eligibility at the federal level.

By focusing on practical needs - connectivity, skills, and affordable devices - Connect2Tech stands ready to support McKinney residents whenever funding resumes, aiming for broader access and stronger digital skills for every household in the community.

This week, Trinity Digital Solutions, a prominent IT services firm in McKinney, revealed its Green Grid Initiative 2025 - a commitment to transition all company-operated data centers and development labs to renewable energy over the next 18 months.

The initiative centers on installing an estimated 10,000 solar panels in collaboration with local providers, aiming to offset more than 5,200 metric tons of CO₂ annually, a reduction comparable to removing nearly 1,150 cars from city streets.

This effort lines up with a broader trend, as global cleantech investments are projected to surpass fossil fuel spending for the first time in 2025, with solar power driving most of this shift and battery storage playing a bigger role in grid reliability (Cleantech investments outpace fossil fuels).

• Sustainability leadership: Trinity Digital Solutions is setting new standards for green IT, moving to 100% renewable energy in its operations.
• Clean energy infrastructure: The firm plans to install 10,000 solar panels, significantly reducing carbon emissions.
• Technology innovation: Investments in server virtualization and battery storage enhance efficiency and reliability.
• Community partnerships: Trinity collaborates with local e-waste recyclers and is working to move its fleet to electric vehicles by 2026.
• Financial impact: Estimated cost savings of $300,000 per year make the shift both environmentally and economically sound.

Trinity’s effort is part of a wave of local sustainability action.

McKinney itself is hosting large-scale renewable projects and has a strong citywide focus on clean energy innovation, with wind farms designed to generate enough power for 75,000 homes and create 250 new jobs (McKinney’s renewable energy efforts).

Initiative	Local Leader	Impact
Solar Panel Installations	Joseph Anderson	Reduces over 5,200 metric tons of CO2 yearly
Wind Farms Project	Patricia Rodriguez	Powers 75,000 homes, creates 250 jobs
E-Waste Recycling Program	Charles Gonzalez	Expands sustainable disposal and reuse partnerships

Local chambers and environmental organizations continue to support these initiatives, offering resources and fostering community engagement to push the green transition forward.

For example, companies like Trinity can leverage sustainable business guidance and connect with more than 1,100 other local firms through the McKinney Chamber of Commerce (Chamber benefits and resources).

As Trinity’s CEO, Ludo Fourrage, stated, “Our Green Grid Initiative isn’t just about technology - it’s about elevating sustainability standards for McKinney’s entire tech sector.”

The buzz around McKinney’s tech scene has grown even stronger in 2025, highlighting how local innovators like Pathfinder Apps are helping the city establish its status as a national tech player.

Founded by McKinney native Matthew Harris, Pathfinder Apps recently saw their "MyCampus Companion" tool recognized as a Top 10 EdTech Solution of 2025. This rise reflects a blend of local support and industry momentum within McKinney’s tech sector, which now contributes 25% of the city’s GDP and benefits from over $1.5 billion in investments since 2020 (see latest city tech industry insights).

Pathfinder’s success mirrors the growth of tech opportunities in the area: with more than 200 startups and over 5,000 tech jobs created since 2020, McKinney now offers fertile ground for digital entrepreneurs.

The company’s year-by-year momentum is impressive:

• 2023: Pathfinder Apps wins Collin County Emerging Startup Award, highlighting local tech advancement as supported by the McKinney Economic Development Corporation and startup funding programs (community support details here).
• 2024: Launches “MyCampus Companion” with adoption in all McKinney ISD middle schools, showing how McKinney ISD strengthens its tech pathways and STEM offerings for students.
• Early 2025: Rises to #3 in the Apple App Store’s "Education" category and outperforms national retention averages, a testament to the recognition that McKinney-based tech firms are earning nationally.
• April 2025: Featured in "Innovate Texas Weekly" as McKinney supports tech education and entrepreneurship through new program investments, partnerships, and talent development initiatives (recent community grant activity).

As Matthew Harris says, “Bringing real-world impact right out of McKinney proves you don’t have to be in Silicon Valley to change the landscape.”

Local innovators like Pathfinder Apps are shaping McKinney into a serious tech destination - and their journeys inspire others to pursue their own digital dreams.

As April 2025 wraps up, McKinney’s tech sector is solidifying its role as a regional driver of growth and innovation. This month, the new $1.3 billion Long Branch mixed-use development was announced, bringing plans for 1,600 apartments, 318,600 square feet of office space, retail, a hotel, and trails - all of which will create opportunities for collaboration, new jobs, and urban revitalization (read more on the Long Branch project).

Alongside major private investment, public infrastructure is advancing as well: McKinney’s new smart traffic management system, launching summer 2025, is projected to save commuters 33 hours a year and reduce overall emissions by 10% (see the latest city tech news).

The tech sector now accounts for 25% of the city’s GDP, supporting over 5,000 high-skill jobs and more than 200 startups, with competitive salaries and a projected 25% sector growth by 2027.

• Main Theme: Major investment and urban growth are shaping McKinney’s tech sector.
  Summary: Significant development projects, like Long Branch, and public infrastructure improvements are elevating McKinney's status as a tech hub.
• Main Theme: Public and private partnerships are fueling tech and economic expansion.
  Summary: Collaboration between businesses and the city is driving sustained technological innovation.
• Main Theme: The tech sector contributes substantially to the city’s economy.
  Summary: McKinney’s technology sector now represents a quarter of the local economy and continues to increase job opportunities.

Education remains a central pillar in McKinney’s momentum.

Collin College continues to scale its tech programs, recently securing $1.3 million for new data science and AI initiatives and partnering with local startups and universities to launch workforce-focused tracks in cybersecurity, software development, and robotics (learn about the latest in educational tech expansion).

Community engagement is strong as well, shown by 85% resident support for tech investments and vibrant turnout at recent STEM events and job fairs. As McKinney welcomes more residents and new businesses, its blend of public-private partnerships, inclusive workforce education, and innovative infrastructure keeps tech momentum accessible for all, promising sustainable opportunity through the years ahead.

• Main Theme: Education and training are at the forefront of the city’s tech strategy.
  Summary: Investments in education and workforce preparation in fields such as AI, cybersecurity, and software are ensuring a robust talent pipeline.
• Main Theme: Strong community support and engagement power the local tech ecosystem.
  Summary: Broad community backing and event participation underpin McKinney’s ongoing innovation.
• Main Theme: Inclusive growth ensures opportunities for all residents.
  Summary: Accessible education and collaborative partnerships foster a sustainable and diverse tech sector.

Development/Initiative	Key Focus	Projected Impact
Long Branch Mixed-Use Project	Urban Growth, New Jobs	Revitalizes McKinney, 1,600 apartments, 318,600 sq ft offices
Smart Traffic System	Infrastructure Efficiency	33 hours saved per commuter, 10% lower emissions
Collin College Tech Initiatives	Workforce Development	Produces skilled tech graduates, supports local startups

"Collaborative partnerships and educational innovation are laying the foundation for McKinney’s sustained tech growth."

For insights from local tech leaders, Charles Miller, Patricia Garcia, and Lisa White are at the forefront of these advances, highlighting the city’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth.