Who’s been helping make the DMV tech scene a hot commodity? We aren’t talking about the blistering heat and humidity this summer, but experts in the region with technological acumen who simultaneously make a difference where they live. Technical.ly’s 2024 RealLIST Engineers features savvy leaders who not only have technological prowess, but also make a difference in the DMV scene. Maybe they host a meetup group, dedicate time to educating the next generation, or even help beautify local hiking trails.The list, which we’ve published in the DC region since 2019, is put together with help of reader nominations (you can submit names all year round), and our own research and past reporting. Keep reading to meet the 15 impressive people who made the list this year. Leslie WelchLeslie Welch. ExcellaWhen she’s not working as a principal fellow in AI and analytics at the Arlington software company Excella, Welch is very involved in data community meetups throughout the region, including Data Viz DC and Data Science DC. She’s a co-organizer of Power BI DC, a group focused on bringing together users of Microsoft’s business intelligence data visualization software product. She previously served a team lead for the inclusion, diversity, and equity ambassadors at Excella. David CurryDavid Curry. BarbaricumA senior software engineer and solutions architect at the government relations firm Barbaricum, Curry has more than 25 years of experience in the field. Outside of work, he volunteers at the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club, where he helps maintain trails and cabins in the region

Data analytics and machine learning company Black Cape has promoted Mike Santamaria to executive vice president and Claire Rich and Justin Shelton to software engineering directors as part of efforts to expand its leadership team.