Cherokee Tech Meetup Marks Growth with 800 Members

<p><em>Woodstock Community News| Woodstock, GA</em></p><p>The Cherokee Tech Meetup concluded its first full year of programming this week, reporting a membership of over 800 professionals and marking a shift toward establishing the county as a regional hub for technology and innovation.</p><p>Powered by the Cherokee Office of Economic Development in partnership with local web-app developer Black Airplane, the initiative hosted 10 events throughout 2025. The series brought together tech leaders to discuss topics ranging from e-commerce strategies to artificial intelligence trends.</p><p>Attendees heard from industry experts including Amit Dingare, Chief AI Officer at PRGX, and Louis Gump, author of "The Inside Innovator." Other featured speakers included executives from major companies such as SiteOne Landscape Supply and Advance Auto Parts, highlighting the depth of the local professional landscape.</p><p>According to the announcement, the broader IT market in the region employs over 70,000 workers, with a projected 15% job growth rate in the coming years. The initiative aims to retain this talent locally by highlighting Cherokee County's business incentives, educational programs, and quality of life.</p><p>Looking ahead to 2026, organizers plan to continue the partnership with Black Airplane and expand event offerings. The goal remains to support the local tech ecosystem alongside entrepreneurship support programs like Startup Cherokee.</p>