How to Switch from a Non-Tech Background to a Tech Job in Detroit

Detroit is low-key becoming a major tech hub, making it the perfect place to score your dream job in the industry.

The city's workforce in tech has exploded by 28% between 2010 and 2020, with big shots like Amazon, Microsoft, and Google setting up shop here. But it's not just the giants - Detroit's startup scene is absolutely thriving, raking in a record-breaking $350 million in funding in 2021 alone.

What makes D-Town so appealing is the insanely low cost of living compared to other major tech cities. According to PayScale, the average tech salary in Detroit is around $72,000, but your money stretches way further here than in places like San Francisco or Seattle.

We're talking a median home price of just $57,800 in Detroit, compared to a whopping $1.4 million in San Fran and $830,000 in Seattle. Crazy, right? On top of that, the city is heavily investing in tech training programs to help locals like you and me break into the industry.

As Karen Jackson, President of Eastern Market Corporation, says,

Detroit is a place where you can really make your mark in technology right now. The opportunities are endless for those willing to learn and grow with the city.

So if you're looking to launch your tech career, Detroit is definitely the move.

Switching from a non-tech background to a tech job in Detroit ain't no joke, but it's totally doable if you play your cards right. First up, you gotta take a real look at the skills you already got under your belt.

Turns out, a lot of the stuff you learned in your previous gigs can be a major asset in the tech world. We're talking problem-solving prowess, communication game on point, and project management wizardry.

These transferable skills are like gold in roles like data analysis, software dev, cybersecurity, and more. But that's just the start. To truly level up, you'll need to get your hands dirty with some tech-specific skills.

If web dev is your jam, you better get cozy with JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Data analysis more your vibe? Python, SQL, and Excel will be your new besties. The good news is, Detroit's got your back with all sorts of resources to help you assess your skills and fill in the gaps.

Places like the Detroit Regional Chamber and TechTown Detroit offer skill assessment tools, workshops, and mentorship programs tailored to the local tech scene.

And coding bootcamps like Nucamp can hook you up with intensive training to make you job-ready. But don't just take my word for it. Thomas Wilson, Chief Technology Officer at Vectorform, a major Detroit tech player, says:

"While technical skills are crucial, we also highly value problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and a growth mindset. These transferable skills can be just as important as specific technical expertise."

So, if you're willing to put in the work and hustle like a boss, that dream tech job in Detroit could be yours for the taking.

Just remember, it's all about leveraging your existing strengths and filling in the gaps with the right resources and training.

If you're trying to get into the tech game in Detroit, there are tons of great options to level up your skills. This city has some of the top-rated coding bootcamps like Nucamp, Kenzie Academy, and General Assembly where you can get proper training in web development, data science, cybersecurity, and more.

These bootcamps are designed to hook you up with the hottest tech skills that companies are looking for.

But it's not just about bootcamps. Universities in Detroit like Wayne State and Oakland Community College also have legit programs for tech enthusiasts who want to dive into computer science, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

And if you're more of an online learner, platforms like Coursera and Udemy offer a ton of great courses taught by big-name schools. For example, you can take the Machine Learning course from Stanford or the Complete Web Developer Course on Udemy.

And the best part? Detroit has a whole community of tech enthusiasts who host workshops, seminars, and meetups where you can get hands-on experience and network with other like-minded individuals.

So whether you're looking for a coding bootcamp, a college degree, or just want to learn online, Detroit has got your back. Just gotta put in the work and hustle for that tech job.

• Coding Bootcamps: Top-rated options like Nucamp, Kenzie Academy, and General Assembly.
• Local Universities: Wayne State and Oakland Community College have solid programs.
• Online Learning: Courses from platforms like Coursera and Udemy.
• Tech Community: Engage in workshops, seminars, and meetups for networking.

Switching careers into tech in Detroit? There's a bunch of solid ways to connect with the local startup scene. D-NewTech has monthly meetups where you can hear industry vets spill the tea and link up with founders hustling on their next big thing.

If helping the community is more your vibe, check out Detroit Community Technology Project - they're all about using tech to empower neighborhoods and make the internet more accessible.

Aside from in-person meetups, there's a ton of online groups to join too.

Reddit's got /r/DetroitTech where techies post about upcoming events and job openings. Facebook and Discord servers like Detroit Tech Hub and Detroit Devs are for picking experienced devs' brains and hearing about cool projects.

The key to leveling up your network is being active - show up to events, engage online, and don't be afraid to reach out to people doing dope stuff.

With Detroit's tight-knit tech community, it's easy to make connections that could lead to sweet opportunities down the line. Just be genuine, hustle consistently, and you'll be golden.

When you're applying for tech jobs in Detroit, you gotta make sure your resume and cover letter are on point. Ditch the cover letter and focus on highlighting your skills that match what companies in the D are looking for.

They're all about that adaptability, problem-solving, and teamwork vibe. If you've got experience in project management or customer service, show 'em how those skills can translate to roles like Scrum Master or Tech Support Specialist.

It's all about making those connections, ya know?

Main Themes:

• Highlight transferable skills: Emphasize how experience in project management or customer service can translate to tech roles.
• Use local job boards and recruiters: Engage with local job boards and recruitment agencies to enhance your job search.
• Research company culture: Understand the company's culture and values to prepare for interviews.

To really level up your job search game, tap into the local job boards and recruitment agencies that have their finger on the pulse of Detroit's tech scene.

Check out these tech recruiters like Epitec and Brightwing.

They know what's up. When it's time for interviews, do your homework on the company's culture and values. A lot of firms in the D are all about collaboration and community involvement, so be ready to share how you can contribute to that vibe.

And don't forget to brush up on those technical questions, but also have some solid behavioral examples ready to show off your problem-solving skills and hunger to keep learning.

"The key to a successful tech career in Detroit is adaptability. The landscape is constantly evolving, and employers value candidates who can learn quickly and embrace change." - Elizabeth Brown, Senior Recruiter at Airfoil Group

A polished resume and cover letter tailored to the Detroit market can make all the difference.

Check out these tips for crafting a killer resume and cover letter.

And if you need some inspo, peep these tech resume examples from local Detroit pros.