Top 10 Strategies for Networking Your Way into College Station's Tech Scene

If you're trying to get your foot in the door of the tech world, Texas A&M's Engineering Career Fair is where it's at. This massive event happens twice a year, and the next one is going down on September 4th and 5th, 2024.

At the Legends Event Center, you'll have the chance to rub elbows with some serious tech heavy-hitters.

We're talking big names like Amazon, Apple, Google, and Microsoft, just to name a few.

Last year, the fair was an absolute madhouse, with over 10,000 students and alumni showing up to snag one of the 20,000+ internships and full-time gigs up for grabs.

So, you better come correct. Dress like you mean business and have an elevator pitch locked and loaded to make a killer first impression. And don't sleep on doing your homework – research those companies inside and out, so you can show them you're the real deal.

Just ask Susan Thompson '21, who studied up on company cultures and landed three on-site interviews.

That's how you level up, my friend!

The Washington DC Business and Tech Industry Meetup is the place to be if you wanna level up your tech game.

With over 1,800 members, this group is a melting pot of professionals from all walks of life, ready to share their knowledge and connect. Whether you're a coding whiz, a data guru, or just starting out, there's something for everyone.

The events lineup is straight fire! From mastering cutting-edge technologies like Generative AI to diving deep into the world of cloud computing, you'll never run out of opportunities to expand your skills.

And the networking sessions, where you can rub shoulders with industry leaders and potentially land your dream gig.

But it's not just about the technical stuff.

The group also hosts events focused on personal growth, like salary negotiation tactics and navigating the corporate world as a minority. It's a safe space to learn, grow, and build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals who genuinely care about your success.

If you're serious about making moves in the tech industry, joining the Computer Science groups in your area is a no-brainer.

These communities are a goldmine of knowledge, offering everything from workshops and hackathons to thought-provoking discussions on the latest trends and innovations.

It's the perfect way to stay ahead of the curve and make valuable connections that could open doors for you down the line.

Alright, so let's talk about these Build Cities Hackathons, they're like a massive tech party where all the cool kids come to flex their coding skills and make connections.

One of these events back in 2016 had over 200 participants battling it out for some serious prize money, we're talking $16,680 up for grabs! These hackathons are the place to be if you want to get noticed by the big players in the tech scene.

But it's not just about the cash prizes, though those are sweet.

Events like the Smart City Hackathon in 2021 brought together students, developers, and industry experts to tackle real-world challenges facing cities.

You get to work on cutting-edge projects, learn from the pros, and show off your skills to potential employers, all while making valuable connections.

Check out what this guide on Smart City Hackathons has to say.

They highlight how these events are a breeding ground for innovation, citizen engagement, and capacity building. Plus, employers love seeing hackathon experience on a resume, it's like a seal of approval for your problem-solving and collaboration skills.

The Brazos Valley Economic Development Corporation (BVEDC) is the real MVP when it comes to College Station's tech scene.

These guys are all about helping businesses grow and connecting people in the industry. If you're trying to network and get your name out there, BVEDC is the move.

They host all kinds of events like meetups and seminars where you can kick it with other techies, share ideas, and make connections.

Their "Celebrate Technology in the Brazos Valley" event had like 200 attendees from different tech fields, so you know it's lit.

Plus, they've got resources to help you start your own biz, like guides, market info, and mentorship programs specifically for startups and small tech companies.

But that's not all – BVEDC is tight with big names like Cisco, Oracle, and Texas A&M University.

So, you can tap into their network and get plugged into the industry. They've even helped companies like BioVeritas, FluxWorks, and HPTech launch and grow their businesses.

One CEO said BVEDC's mentorship program and connections helped them land clients and investors. It's a no-brainer – if you want to level up your career and meet the right people in College Station's tech community, you gotta link up with BVEDC.

Let me tell you about the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) - it's a place for anyone into tech and engineering! These individuals are all about cutting-edge research and finding solutions to real-world problems.

If you're in College Station and looking to level up your networking game, TEES is where you need to be.

Throughout the year, they host all kinds of events for different engineering fields.

You've got seminars and lectures where experts from universities and companies share their knowledge on the latest tech and best practices.

Then there are multi-day conferences and symposiums where researchers, professionals, and big shots in the industry come together to discuss groundbreaking advancements and collaborate on solutions.

• Seminars and lectures: Experts share knowledge on the latest tech and best practices.
• Conferences and symposiums: Researchers and professionals discuss groundbreaking advancements and collaborate on solutions.

But that's not all! TEES also organizes tech showcases where companies and researchers get to flex their latest innovations.

You can see the future of engineering unfold right before your eyes. And if you're a student, they even have competitions where you can put your problem-solving skills and teamwork to the test.

• Tech showcases: See the latest innovations from companies and researchers.
• Student competitions: Test your problem-solving skills and teamwork.

Attending these events isn't just about expanding your technical knowledge, though.

It's also an incredible opportunity to connect with people who share your passion for tech. According to a recent TEES survey, over 85% of attendees said they made meaningful connections that led to collabs, mentorships, or even new job opportunities.

One attendee, Christopher White, a senior software engineer at a local tech firm, said, "The TEES events have been a game-changer for my career.

I've met industry leaders, formed lasting professional relationships, and even landed my current job through a connection I made at a TEES conference."

"The TEES events have been a game-changer for my career. I've met industry leaders, formed lasting professional relationships, and even landed my current job through a connection I made at a TEES conference."

If you're serious about tech and want to surround yourself with a community of like-minded individuals, stay ahead of the curve, and open up new career possibilities, then immersing yourself in the TEES scene is an absolute must.

It's a surefire way to take your networking game to the next level in College Station's thriving tech ecosystem.

The Aggie Coding Club is where it's at for anyone looking to level up their tech skills and make some killer connections.

Founded in 2015, this club has grown massively, with hundreds of members from all kinds of majors joining the squad.

Being part of the Aggie Coding Club means you get access to some seriously awesome perks, like:

• Workshops: Every week, you can learn something fresh from industry pros and experienced student mentors who break down the latest tech trends, from web dev to data science.
• Projects and Hackathons: Put your coding chops to the test by tackling real-world projects or competing in adrenaline-pumping hackathons. These hands-on experiences are a game-changer for building your problem-solving and teamwork skills.
• Networking Events: The club hooks you up with exclusive networking opportunities where you can rub elbows with Aggie alumni, tech gurus, and potential employers. It's the ultimate gateway to scoring internships and landing that dream job.

A recent survey revealed that a whopping 89% of members felt like they leveled up big time, gaining serious coding skills, boosting their confidence, and unlocking their leadership potential.

Even better, 76% of members scored internships or full-time gigs through the club's powerful network.

"The Aggie Coding Club has been my secret weapon," says David Thomas, a senior computer science major. "Not only did I gain practical coding experience, but I also connected with incredible mentors and industry leaders who helped me navigate every step of my career journey."

The Aggie Coding Club is a must-join for any tech-savvy Aggie looking to crush it in the world of software development.

Ever been to Grand Station Entertainment? It's the biggest entertainment hotspot in College Station, but they host these "Tech Nights" where you can mingle with fellow techies and score some sweet opportunities.

People rave about the insane lineup of activities like bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and even axe throwing! But the real draw is the chance to connect with industry pros, aspiring devs, and startup founders over drinks and snacks.

One highlight is the keynote speaker, usually someone from a major tech company dropping knowledge bombs.

After that, it's full-on networking mode! You never know who you'll meet - some folks have even landed dream jobs or scored funding for their passion projects just by striking up convos.

Like this dude William Jackson who found an investor for his coding bootcamp, or Lisa Perez who impressed a hiring manager and got hired on the spot. Wild, right?

What makes Tech Nights so special is the chill, inclusive vibe.

As one regular named Max puts it, it's like a "homecoming for techies" where you can geek out over new tech demos and just vibe with your people. To make the most of it, come loaded with biz cards and your best elevator pitch.

Don't be afraid to approach people - that's how you make those vital connections. And always follow up after to keep the momentum going. With opportunities and an atmosphere that screams good vibes only, Grand Station Entertainment's Tech Nights are a must for anyone trying to level up in College Station's tech scene.

The Bryan/College Station Chamber of Commerce is where it's at for anyone trying to break into the local tech scene.

These guys host some seriously sick events that'll help you network like a boss and level up your skills.

First off, you've got the Tech Talks, where industry bigwigs spill the tea on the latest tech trends and innovations.

It's like a masterclass in staying ahead of the game.

But that's not all! The Chamber also throws down with Startup Showcases, where ambitious entrepreneurs pitch their mind-blowing ideas to potential investors and collaborators.

Who knows, you might even meet your future business partner at one of these shindigs.

And if coding is more your vibe, they've got Coding Workshops where seasoned developers break it down and show you the ropes.

Whether you're a coding newbie or a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone.

But don't just take my word for it – the numbers speak for themselves.

According to a recent survey, a whopping 85% of Chamber members landed some sick business connections through these events, and 62% scored a career boost or a new gig in the tech world.

That's what I call a win-win situation!

Just ask Christopher Williams, a software engineer who's been killing it at the Chamber events. He'll tell you straight up: "These events have been game-changers for my career.

Not only have I built an epic network, but I've also gained mad knowledge that's helped me crush it at work and stay ahead of the curve."

The Brazos Valley Makers' Club is the spot for all you tech geeks and DIY maniacs! It's a crew of folks who live and breathe innovation, and they're always down to help you level up your skills.

By volunteering with these rebels, you'll get to expand your network and link up with some seriously brilliant minds from all walks of life. Check it out:

• Skill Development: You'll gain some serious hands-on experience by assisting with workshops, mentoring programs, and other educational gigs. Whether it's coding, 3D printing, or tinkering with gadgets, you'll sharpen your skills while contributing to the local tech scene.
• Networking Galore: The club hosts a ton of events like maker fairs, hackathons, guest lectures, and social gatherings. These are prime opportunities to mingle with industry pros, entrepreneurs, and fellow tech junkies, fostering valuable connections and potential collabs.
• Personal Growth: Volunteering isn't just about flexing your tech muscles; it's also a chance to develop crucial soft skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork – traits that employers in the tech world seriously dig.

Here's how you can get involved with the Brazos Valley Makers' Club:

1. Organize events: Lend a hand with organizing the annual Brazos Valley Maker Faire, a showcase of mind-blowing projects and interactive exhibits.
2. Mentor youth: Mentor the young'uns in coding workshops or robotics competitions, inspiring the next gen of tech leaders.
3. Lead workshops: Share your expertise by leading a workshop or seminar on your area of specialization, whether it's 3D printing or Internet of Things (IoT) applications.

As Michael Lee, a long-time volunteer, puts it, "Volunteering with the Brazos Valley Makers' Club has been an epic journey.

Not only have I gained some serious skills, but I've also formed tight bonds with some of the dopest minds in the tech community." By getting involved, you'll be part of a network that fosters innovation, collaboration, and personal growth like no other.

The Aggie Network is like a cheat code for leveling up your tech career. It's a massive squad of over 625,000 former Aggies from Texas A&M, and they're all about helping each other climb that ladder.

Whether you're a coding noob or a seasoned hacker, the Network has your back.

First up, you gotta join the "Find an Aggie" Directory.

It's like LinkedIn on steroids, letting you connect with Aggies in your field, from fresh grads to industry vets. Need an intro? They got you covered. Looking for a mentor? Easy peasy.

Next, keep an eye out for Aggie Club events happening in major tech cities.

These meetups are a golden opportunity to rub elbows with Aggies killing it at places like Google, Apple, and Microsoft. Who knows, you might even land *yourself an* internship or job through one of those connections.

The Network has its own mentorship program where you can link up with an experienced pro in your dream field.

Imagine having a personal guide to help you navigate the tech jungle and avoid all the rookie mistakes. Straight-up game-changer!

The Association of Former Students is always hiring student ambassadors to be the face of the Network.

Talk about an epic resume booster and a chance to get plugged into that Aggie insider info.

So, if you're trying to make moves in the College Station tech scene or anywhere else, the Aggie Network is an absolute must.

Leverage those connections, soak up that wisdom, and watch your career take off like a rocket! Just don't forget to study those job-hunting strategies from Nucamp first.