The National Society of Black Engineers will hold its 2026 Annual Convention at the Baltimore Convention Center from March 18-22, bringing together thousands of students, professionals and leaders in STEM fields. The multi-day event will feature workshops, panel discussions, a career fair and the Black on Purpose Festival— celebrating Black engineering excellence with food, music, art and technology demonstrations.
Category: Technology
BEYA STEM Conference elevates HBCUs’ role in AI and federal innovationÂ
The 40th annual BEYA STEM Conference in Baltimore highlighted the importance of HBCUs in AI and national security related careers, and discussed strategies for engaging students before college, as well as the potential environmental impact of AI.
Black tech leaders call for ownership, access and leadership
Black tech leaders in Baltimore and Washington, D.C., are urging greater ownership, access and representation as artificial intelligence reshapes industries and daily life. Through community-building, entrepreneurship and AI governance, they say Black professionals must move from consumers of technology to architects of the systems shaping the future.
Power, profit and protection: Local advocates weigh risks of Landover data center
As demand for artificial intelligence grows, a proposed hyperscale data center in Landover, Md., has sparked concerns among residents about environmental, health and infrastructure impacts. Community advocates warn the project could disproportionately burden historically Black neighborhoods unless enforceable protections are put in place.
Mayors discuss impact of data centers in their cities
As data centers expand alongside the growth of artificial intelligence, mayors across the U.S. are weighing economic benefits against environmental and infrastructure concerns. Local leaders say clear standards are key as communities push back.
BEYA STEM Conference to mark 40th anniversary with focus on AI, cybersecurity and quantum computing
The Becoming Everything You Are (BEYA) STEM Conference returns to Baltimore Feb. 12–14 to mark its 40th anniversary, bringing together students, professionals and industry leaders for networking, training and career opportunities. As workforce needs shift, organizers say this year’s conference will focus on artificial intelligence, quantum computing and cybersecurity.
Inside Black Education Station, a streaming platform where Black kids see themselves
Black Education Station provides young Black children with safe, culturally-relevant educational content designed to build confidence, self-esteem and pride in their identities. The platform is entirely Black-owned, Black-led and independent, ensuring its programming remains free from corporate or government influence.
Comcast Flagship Lift Zone brings free Wi-Fi and digital skills training to Ward 8
Ward 8 residents now have access to free Wi-Fi and upgraded technology at the Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus (THEARC) in Southeast Washington, D.C. Comcast invested $750,000 to launch a new Flagship Lift Zone at the campus, which also includes digital skills training and expanded workforce development support.
TEDCO’s last Entrepreneur Expo highlights Maryland’s innovation and thriving startup ecosystem
The 2025 TEDCO Entrepreneur Expo brought together business owners, investors and industry leaders to explore opportunities for innovation and growth. Speakers, including Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and University of Maryland President Darryll Pines, highlighted the state’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs at every stage and fostering a thriving startup ecosystem.
Unplug to recharge: Why more people are turning to digital detoxes
As technology increasingly dominates daily life, people are turning to digital detoxes, taking intentional breaks from screens, social media and constant connectivity. Experts say these efforts reflect growing awareness of technology’s toll and a proactive effort to protect mental health.
AI in schools: Will ChatGPT help or hurt Black students?
A recent MIT study finds essays written with assistance from artificial intelligence lacks creativity and brain engagement.
How artificial intelligence furthers environmental racism in Black America
By Rev. Dr. Heber BrownWord in Black When one of my best friends (who is also a pastor) encouraged me to look into utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) tools for ministry purposes, I was exhilarated. It seemed like a game-changer at my fingertips. I used it to make presentations and outline Bible studies, saving time on […]

