Honoring the Past. Engineering the Future.
Hello/Hola!
As the U.S. continues to celebrate the rich legacy and contributions of Americans from the African Diaspora (Happy Black History Month, y’all!), it is with a heavy heart that we recognize the loss of an American civil rights icon Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr., who passed away at age 84 on February 17, 2026. Jackson spent his life advocating for justice, economic opportunity, and voting rights — standing alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the civil rights movement, founding the Rainbow PUSH Coalition to expand corporate and civic inclusion, and mobilizing millions to exercise their voice at the ballot box.
At this moment the 2026 U.S. primary elections are underway, with voters across the country casting ballots to determine which candidates will appear on the general election ballot later this year. These primary elections are critical opportunities to shape the policies, priorities, and leadership that impact everything from economic growth to workforce development. Participating in these elections is one powerful way to carry forward Jackson’s legacy of engagement and civic empowerment.
One of Rev. Jackson’s enduring contributions was his fight for economic advancement and opportunity. That mission resonates deeply with Universal Tech Movement’s work to connect communities to the tech industry through workforce readiness, innovation, and economic advancement. By engaging in this election cycle and lifting up voices in our communities, we continue the work of expanding opportunity and building pathways to prosperity in an increasingly tech-driven economy.
Speaking of building pathways, there will be an opportunity to hear about one of our volunteer’s pathway into the tech industry at UTM’s upcoming Horizons event.
As you explore this week’s newsletter, we encourage you to learn about ways to get involved in UTM’s tech ecosystem and discover how you can honor those who fought for equity and help shape the future of economic opportunity for all.
Warm regards,
Universal Tech Movement
Digital Platform Launches to Support Ranching
Texas Tech News — A new digital platform (TexasRanches.com) has recently launched to support the future of Texas ranching by centralizing resources, expert advice, gear, livestock tools, and access to more than 20,000 properties for sale. The site aims to build a broader community around rural land ownership and economic sustainability. By weaving together tech-enabled tools with traditional industries like agriculture and ranching, this platform underscores how digital innovation can drive workforce growth and economic advancement across diverse sectors — including in rural areas and communities in need that are often overlooked in traditional tech discussions.
India AI Impact Summit Signals Global Collab
National Tech News — The India AI Impact Summit 2026 kicked off in New Delhi, drawing heads of state and tech CEOs to shape inclusive and responsible AI governance. The summit, featuring leaders from major companies and governments, emphasizes expanding AI’s global reach — including ethical frameworks and economic opportunity. For U.S. policy and workforce trends, this event highlights the growing need to prepare tech talent who can compete internationally.
Compete Internationally, Explore UTM’s Tech Training
UK gains stronger foothold in global AI economy
Global Tech News — The United Kingdom just welcomed its first tech “unicorn” of 2026 as a London-based AI company was acquired in a deal valued at roughly $1 billion — a major milestone for Europe’s innovation ecosystem. The startup, known for developing advanced AI tools for business performance, was purchased by a global consultancy firm in a strategic move that gives the UK a stronger foothold in the global AI economy. This milestone highlights how AI innovation is expanding worldwide and creating new economic opportunities.
Scaling the Smart World: Developing, Deploying, and Operating IoT at Scale
Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026 | 6:15 - 7:45 p.m. CT | Virtual
Join the Austin Forum for this virtual event as they welcome Lionel Felix, Founder and Chief Revenue Officer of Felix Media Solutions and Founder of StructureSense.AI--and one of the city's foremost experts in smart infrastructure--for an overview of the current landscape of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and implementation considerations. Drawing on his experience managing complex, mission-critical AV and automation environments, Lionel will share the latest best practices for building systems that are resilient, secure, and—most importantly—functional.
Austin AI Alliance Monthly Meeting
Tuesday | Feb 17 | 5:30 - 8 PM CT | In-person
Join the Austin AI Alliance for their February monthly meeting — a chance to connect with AI professionals and enthusiasts across Central Texas. This event focuses on AI trends, practical applications, community building, and collaboration opportunities for technologists at every level. Whether you’re learning, networking, or exploring future work paths, it’s a great way to plug into tech conversations in the heart of one of America’s fastest-growing tech hubs.
Austin Women in Technology Leadership Meetup
Thursday | March 5 | 5:30 - 8 PM CT | In-person
Join Austin Women in Technology for an evening focused on leadership, career growth, and community support. This meetup brings together women and allies working across tech disciplines to share insights, build connections, and discuss strategies for advancing equity and innovation.