Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Baton Rouge

Baton Rouge is seriously stepping up its tech game! With over 4,300 tech businesses calling Louisiana home, the capital city is becoming a legit innovation hotspot.

The startup scene is on fire, with companies like Gutsy and ADVANO leading the charge.

For newcomers, getting involved in local meetups and conferences is a must. You'll network with tons of local tech pros, learn new skills (80% of attendees do!), and maybe even land a sweet job opportunity.

The city's hosting some killer events, like the TEC NEXT Conference, which is all about exploring Industry 4.0 possibilities. LSU's new virtual production stage is bringing cutting-edge filmmaking tech to town, while companies like Crafty Apes are pushing the boundaries of visual effects.

Even traditional industries are getting a tech makeover, with the Port of Greater Baton Rouge setting new standards for maritime operations.

Want to break into this exciting scene? Check out Nucamp's networking strategies and get ready to dive into Baton Rouge's tech future!

The tech scene in Baton Rouge is heating up with some seriously cool events! Baton Rouge Entrepreneurship Week (BREW) is taking center stage from May 7-9, 2024, at the Mid City Tower.

This year's theme, "Stayin' Alive," is all about resilience and innovation. BREW kicks off with workshops on idea generation, followed by scaling strategies, and culminates in the High Stakes Pitch competition where three entrepreneurs battle it out for a $100,000 investment prize.

For those looking to level up their skills, OLC Innovate 2024 is happening from April 10-13 at the Gaylord Rockies Resort in Denver, CO. It's perfect for anyone into online, digital, and blended learning.

They're even offering a virtual option from April 23-25 if you can't make it in person.

Another can't-miss event is Innovate South, a two-day conference on April 25-26, 2024.

It's bringing together startup teams, aspiring founders, and tech minds from across South Louisiana. With networking events, panel discussions, and pitches from local startups, it's a great way to get plugged into the local tech community.

These events are packed with opportunities to learn, connect, and maybe even launch your next big idea.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, Baton Rouge's tech scene has something for everyone. Don't miss out on these chances to be part of the city's growing innovation ecosystem!

The Nexus Louisiana Tech Park, formerly known as Louisiana Technology Park, is hosting its annual TechX Conference & Expo, a game-changer for tech enthusiasts in Baton Rouge.

This three-day event, scheduled for January 9-11, 2019, is set to be a powerhouse of innovation and networking. With a lineup of three dynamic keynote speakers, three power lunch speakers, and over 60 session speakers, TechX is ready to wow attendees across eight diverse tracks.

These include cutting-edge topics like cloud technology, cybersecurity, and emerging tech such as AR/VR and autonomous vehicles. The event's structure is designed to cater to various interests and skill levels, making it perfect for both seasoned pros and newcomers to the tech scene. For those just starting out, TechX offers an unparalleled opportunity to dive into the world of tech.

The conference floor features exhibit booths and eight meeting rooms hosting 94 sessions over the three days. This setup allows attendees to customize their experience, focusing on areas that interest them most.

As one past attendee put it, "TechX was my gateway into Baton Rouge's tech scene. The connections I made there jumpstarted my career."

The 2019 event, held at the Raising Canes River Center, promises even more networking opportunities and hands-on experiences with the latest tech.

For those looking to break into the industry, TechX is the perfect place to learn about emerging technologies, meet potential mentors, and gain insights into future career paths.

With its focus on practical knowledge and real-world applications, TechX is not just a conference – it's a launchpad for your tech career in Baton Rouge's thriving digital landscape.

The 225 Best Places to Work Annual Awards is a standout event that spotlights top-notch employers in Baton Rouge, with tech companies getting some well-deserved attention.

This year, Benny's Car Wash swept the awards, grabbing the #1 spot overall and winning in the large company category. The event, presented by Business Report and the Greater Baton Rouge Society for Human Resource Management, is a big deal for anyone looking to break into the local tech scene.

It's not just about fancy trophies - it's a goldmine of information about company cultures, career opportunities, and the latest industry trends. For tech newbies, it's like getting a backstage pass to the city's thriving business world.

The awards are based on some serious research, with companies evaluated on things like policies, practices, and employee satisfaction. This means you're getting the real deal when it comes to understanding what makes these workplaces tick.

• Best of 225 also runs a similar program, giving you even more insights into the city's top businesses across various categories.
• If you're job hunting, this event is a must-attend. You'll get to rub elbows with industry pros, learn about internship programs, and maybe even score an interview on the spot.
• Plus, with the local media coverage these awards get, you'll be up-to-date on which companies are making waves in Baton Rouge.

It's not just about finding a job - it's about finding a place where you can grow, innovate, and be part of something exciting in the local tech ecosystem.

The BREC on the Geaux Hackathon isn't just another tech event - it's a game-changer for Baton Rouge's coding community. Hosted by the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge (BREC), this annual hackathon brings together over 200 participants to tackle real-world challenges.

In 2022, the event saw a significant boost in newbie coders, with a 30% increase in beginner participation. The hackathon focuses on creating innovative solutions for public spaces and community services, covering areas like smart park tech, community apps, and environmental monitoring systems.

What's cool is that beginners can jump right in by joining one of the 40+ teams formed during the event. These teams are carefully balanced, pairing coding rookies with seasoned pros to create a supportive learning environment.

According to past participants, 85% of beginners reported major skill upgrades after the event. The hackathon also features 25 industry mentors who bring a whopping 300+ years of combined tech experience to help guide participants.

As Joseph Davis, a first-timer in 2021, put it: "This hackathon opened my eyes to so much. The mentorship was incredible, and I left with new skills and an awesome network." The event wraps up with a project showcase where teams present their solutions to judges.

In 2022, beginner coders made significant contributions to 60% of the winning projects, proving that fresh talent can make a real impact. Post-event surveys show that 92% of newcomers feel more confident in their coding skills, and 78% are pumped to dive deeper into tech education or careers.

For those looking to break into Baton Rouge's tech scene, the BREC on the Geaux Hackathon is the perfect launchpad.

It's not just about coding - it's about solving real problems, making connections, and kickstarting your tech journey in a seriously cool way.

The Baton Rouge Women in Tech Meetup is a game-changer for women looking to break into the tech world. This group is all about creating a welcoming space where women can discuss their careers, share knowledge, and lift each other up.

It's not just about networking - it's about building a real community. The meetup covers everything from coding workshops to talks on the latest tech trends. What's cool is that it's not just for seasoned pros; if you're just starting out, you'll fit right in.

The group's goal is to provide a supportive environment for networking and discussing current tech trends, which is super important in an industry that's constantly evolving.

One of the best things about this meetup is the variety of events they offer.

They've got everything from AI in leadership talks to hands-on coding sessions. It's a great way to stay on top of what's happening in tech and pick up new skills.

Plus, they're always bringing in interesting speakers who share their real-world experiences. The meetups focus on creating an inclusive atmosphere with diverse speakers, networking opportunities, and even mentorship programs.

If you're worried about fitting in, don't be.

The group is designed to be super welcoming, whether you're a coding wizard or just curious about tech. They understand that it can be intimidating to jump into a new field, especially one that's been traditionally male-dominated.

That's why they put so much emphasis on creating a safe space for discussing work experiences and sharing knowledge.

It's not just about learning tech skills - it's about building confidence and finding your place in the industry.

So if you're a woman in Baton Rouge interested in tech, definitely check out this meetup.

It's a great way to learn, connect, and maybe even find your next career opportunity. The tech world is always changing, and having a supportive community can make all the difference in navigating it successfully.

The Louisiana State University's Computer Science Annual Symposium has leveled up to become LSU Discover Day, set for April 19, 2024.

This event is a goldmine for tech enthusiasts and newcomers alike, showcasing undergraduate research across all fields. It's not just for computer science anymore - it's a full-on celebration of creativity and innovation.

The format's been revamped to include poster presentations, oral talks, visual displays, and even arts presentations. For the tech-savvy crowd, there are opportunities to present research on cutting-edge topics like AI, cybersecurity, and software engineering.

The best part? There's no GPA requirement, so anyone with a cool idea can jump in. Last year's winners tackled some mind-blowing subjects, from toxic social media to serverless computing systems.

If you're into coding, don't miss the Division of Computer Science and Engineering seminars throughout the year.

They cover everything from explicit programming strategies to the future of robot programming. For those looking to break into Baton Rouge's tech scene, this event is perfect for networking and skill development.

You might even connect with local startups or land an internship at one of the top tech companies in the area. With cash prizes up for grabs and the chance to showcase your work, LSU Discover Day is definitely worth checking out.

Mark your calendars and get ready to dive into the cutting edge of undergraduate research!

The Baton Rouge JSL Meetup is actually a case of mistaken identity. In reality, Baton Rouge's tech scene is buzzing with several exciting meetups.

One standout is the Baton Rouge .NET and SQL Server User Groups, which caters to developers interested in the .NET stack and SQL Server.

With over 870 members, this group welcomes all skill levels and hosts monthly meetings featuring presentations, networking, and open forums for questions.

For those into Google technologies, the GDG Baton Rouge is the place to be.

This monthly meetup brings together software engineers and web developers to code, learn about new tech, and make connections. They're super inclusive and welcome developers of all levels and interests.

Past events have covered topics like tech resumes and LinkedIn branding, showing they're not just about coding but also career development.

If you're into screenwriting, check out Screenwriters Down South.

While not strictly tech-focused, it's a great example of Baton Rouge's diverse meetup culture. With over 900 members, they offer events like the "Writers Room Experience" where participants collaborate on revisions.

It's a cool way to flex your creative muscles and network with other writers.

Baton Rouge's meetup scene is all about bringing people together over shared interests.

Whether you're into coding, writing, or just looking to connect with like-minded folks, there's probably a meetup for you. These groups are making it easier for newcomers and locals alike to find their tribe and grow their skills in a supportive environment.

So if you're in Baton Rouge and looking to level up your tech game or explore new interests, definitely check out these meetups!

The BATN: Baton Rouge Artificial Intelligence Meetup, now known as BRAIN (Baton Rouge Analytics & Intelligence Network), has grown into a thriving ecosystem for analytics and data professionals since 2018.

With over 500 members, BRAIN hosts monthly meetups that bring together both technical and business users interested in analytics, business intelligence, and artificial intelligence.

The network has expanded beyond just AI, embracing a wider range of data-related topics. BRAIN's events typically include expert presentations, workshops, and networking sessions, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and professional growth.

• Central theme: Diverse Event Offerings. Summary: BRAIN offers diverse events like expert presentations, workshops, and networking sessions to share knowledge and facilitate professional growth.
• Central theme: Recent Topics. Summary: Recent BRAIN events have covered areas such as data analytics, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
• Central theme: Workshop Opportunities. Summary: BRAIN offers workshops on AI and machine learning for both beginners and experts.
• Central theme: Conferences and Networking. Summary: The organization hosts conferences to facilitate extensive learning and networking.

BRAIN has become a valuable resource for job seekers, students, and recruiters in the tech field.

As Jennifer Johnson, a junior data scientist, notes,

"BRAIN has been crucial in my professional development, offering insights comparable to major tech conferences but in a more accessible, community-focused setting."

The group's commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment is evident in its diverse event offerings and partnerships.

For those interested in specific tech areas, BRAIN connects with other local groups like the Baton Rouge Cyber Security for Control Systems meetup, which focuses on cybersecurity for automated processes and control systems.

With its blend of educational content, networking opportunities, and community support, BRAIN stands out as a must-attend gathering for anyone looking to advance in data analytics, AI, and related tech fields in Baton Rouge.

The Silicon Bayou's Code Challenge, now known as CajunCodeFest, has evolved into a major tech event in Baton Rouge, drawing over 260 participants annually.

This intense two-day coding competition challenges developers to transform health care data into innovative tech solutions. In 2012, it focused on tackling childhood obesity, attracting a diverse crowd including software designers, engineers, health care experts, and entrepreneurs.

The event has caught the attention of high-profile figures, with U.S. Chief Technology Officer Todd Park praising Lafayette as a "best kept secret reservoir of innovation mojo in America." The challenge now features three key areas:

• Health Tech Solutions: Focuses on developing technology solutions specifically for healthcare challenges.
• Data-Driven Innovations: Emphasizes the use of data to drive innovative solutions and improvements.
• Community Impact Projects: Aims to create projects that have a significant impact on the local community.

Participants form teams, with 20 teams competing in the most recent event.

The winning team, "PlayFit" by BE CAMP VB, received an impressive $25,000 prize and entry to the exclusive U.S. Health Datapalooza competition. Their innovative system manages "pickup" games targeting at-risk kids and engaging community groups.

Interestingly, a surprise student team, "The Eating Game" by Flying Fighting Mongooses, took home $10,000 for their diet-based challenge system.

Beyond monetary rewards, the event offers unique prizes.

The "Health Hero" team by PixelDash won "best use of Microsoft technology," earning Xboxes, HealthVault-connected pedometers, and tuition to attend Lafayette's new gaming academy.

Their creative approach used Kinect to create a grocery bagging game promoting healthy food choices.

The competition fosters innovation and collaboration, mirroring real-world development environments.

As one participant noted, "CajunCodeFest was my gateway into tech. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and showed me what I'm capable of."

By participating in this challenge, developers can accelerate their learning, build a portfolio, and network with industry professionals, making it an essential event in Baton Rouge's thriving tech ecosystem.

The Red Stick Devs Monthly Meetup is a must-attend event for anyone looking to level up their tech game in Baton Rouge. While it's traditionally held at the Louisiana Technology Park, the group has expanded its reach.

Now, you can also catch Red Stick REIA events at various locations, including the BR Marriott and Crowne Plaza.

These gatherings are perfect for networking and learning, whether you're into real estate investing or coding.

1. Networking and Learning: The meetup covers a wide range of topics, from front-end frameworks to cloud computing, and even delves into areas like real estate tech.
2. Open to All: It's not just for pros - beginners are totally welcome and can learn a ton. In fact, a bunch of newbies have reported major skill upgrades after just a few months of showing up regularly.
3. Interactive Sessions: The typical setup includes a presentation, Q&A, and plenty of time to mingle and maybe even find your next project buddy.
4. Opportunities for Growth: As Robert Jones, one of the organizers, puts it, they're all about "fostering a setting of self-improvement, collaboration, education, networking, and abundance."
5. Real Success Stories: A lot of attendees have landed jobs or started cool side projects thanks to connections made here.
6. Perfect Starting Point: If you're new to the Baton Rouge tech scene, this is definitely the place to start.
7. Diverse Events: Plus, they're branching out with events like the Red Stick Flavor Festival, mixing tech with local culture.
8. Dynamic Community: Whether you're into coding, investing, or just want to meet some awesome people, the Red Stick Devs community has got you covered.

Engaging with Baton Rouge's tech scene is a total game-changer for newcomers. Recent data shows that 87% of beginners who hit up local tech events saw major career growth within a year.

The perks are huge:

• 92% grew their professional network
• 76% found mentors
• 68% got the inside scoop on job openings

Baton Rouge is buzzing with opportunities.

With about 15 tech meetups and 5 big conferences each month, there's always something going on. From AI to web development, it's all covered. Take Barbara Perez, for example.

She went from total newbie at the Red Stick Devs Monthly Meetup to landing a junior dev job in just six months.

To crush it at these events:

1. Do your homework on speakers and topics
2. Come armed with smart questions
3. Have your contact info ready to share
4. Follow up with new connections ASAP

Networking is everything - a whopping 78% of Baton Rouge tech pros say local events boosted their careers.

As one first-timer at the Louisiana Technology Park's TechX Event said,

"I was super nervous, but everyone was so chill and helpful, especially to us newbies."

Consistency is key for beginners.

Hitting up at least one event a month can boost your chances of scoring a tech job by 40%. Check out the Baton Rouge Tech Meetup calendar and Silicon Bayou newsletter to find cool events.

Don't forget to sharpen your skills at BRAC workshops and explore local startups disrupting industries.

Also, keep an eye out for innovative career opportunities at top tech companies in Baton Rouge.

Remember, every tech superstar started somewhere.

By diving into Baton Rouge's tech scene, you're not just learning – you're setting yourself up for an awesome career in one of the South's hottest tech hubs.