WinstonNet Builds AI Lab at MLK Recreation Center
The nonprofit is expanding its long-standing digital literacy initiatives in Winston-Salem.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Data Centers
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WinstonNet has begun construction on a new artificial intelligence innovation training lab located at the MLK Recreation Center. This facility aims to expand the nonprofit's efforts to increase technology access throughout Forsyth County.
Why it matters
The project builds on decades of local digital literacy efforts intended to help residents navigate an increasingly complex technological landscape. It seeks to bridge the gap for community members who lack the necessary computer skills to keep pace with modern workforce demands.
The agency currently manages 25 computer labs and has distributed 5,800 devices, ranging from computers to smartphones, to residents over 25 years. Educational offerings include a 4-hour basic literacy program and a 30-hour training course held with Forsyth Tech.
The players
WinstonNet
This nonprofit organization provides digital literacy training and technology hardware to residents of Forsyth County.
Forsyth Tech
This educational institution partners with WinstonNet to provide a 30-hour digital literacy training program.
Winston-Salem Foundation
This organization provides critical funding and investment support to sustain the initiatives led by WinstonNet.
The details
WinstonNet refurbishes donated corporate hardware in-house for community distribution and provides specialized support for students and caregivers through its Digital Bridges Forsyth program. The nonprofit receives funding and investment support from the Winston-Salem Foundation to sustain its operations.
Timeline
WinstonNet was established in the 2000s.
The nonprofit has operated for 25 years.
The Digital Bridges Forsyth program started during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The new MLK AI innovation training lab is scheduled to open in 2027.
The Tech Race
WinstonNet is shifting from basic computer literacy toward advanced AI training to keep local residents competitive in an evolving digital economy. This initiative mirrors broader industry efforts to replace legacy computer skills training with specialized AI and machine learning instruction.
Residents of Forsyth County will gain access to specialized artificial intelligence training that could improve future job prospects and technical proficiency. Participants can utilize these resources to supplement the existing 4-hour or 30-hour literacy programs offered by the agency.
The takeaway
Technological literacy initiatives are evolving to include AI-specific training to better prepare residents for future workforce requirements. Interested individuals should monitor the nonprofit’s progress to identify when enrollment for the new training sessions begins.
What happens next
The artificial intelligence innovation training lab at the MLK Recreation Center is slated to open to the public in 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local technological infrastructure in the Data Centers section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Myfox8.
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