Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Fort Worth

As a 20-something techie in Fort Worth, one of the coolest ways to kickstart your career is by attending local meetups and conferences.

This city is low-key becoming a tech hub with major companies like Elevate and Bell Flight all having a presence here.

By joining these events, you'll not only stay in the loop with emerging trends but also network with industry pros and potential mentors.

For starters, check out Tech Talent South's immersive coding programs - it's like the ultimate event for coding enthusiasts in Fort Worth.

You'll get to learn loads of new skills from seasoned developers and maybe even showcase your own creations. Or if you're into networking, attending University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) Tech Events is a must.

They cover diverse topics and give you a chance to connect with academia and tech professionals.

The bottom line is, tech meetups and conferences open up a world of opportunities for beginners like us.

As experts say,

"Conferences facilitate networking, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded individuals, potential partners, and mentors."

So gear up, show up, and unlock the vibrant tech scene in Fort Worth!

You know what's lit in Fort Worth? The Cowtown Code Camp! This epic coding fest is where all the techies and aspiring developers flock to level up their skills.

Whether you're a total noob or a seasoned coder, they've got dope workshops and challenges to keep you engaged. It's like a buffet for coding geeks, with sessions covering everything from web dev with React and Angular to mobile app building with Flutter.

But it's not just about the technical side - you also get to mingle and network with other code-lovers, maybe even find a mentor to guide you on your coding journey.

Speaking of mentors, the Camp offers a sick opportunity to connect with veterans in the industry.

They'll share their wisdom and experiences, helping you navigate the ever-changing tech landscape like a pro. And let's not forget the potential job prospects – this event is a prime spot to showcase your skills and impress potential employers.

But the Cowtown Code Camp isn't just a one-day thing – it's a full-on immersive experience that'll have you living and breathing code for a whole week.

From hands-on coding challenges to networking sessions, it's like a boot camp for tech ninjas. And when you're not coding, you can explore the vibrant city of Fort Worth, taking in the sights and sounds of this historic "Cowtown."

You gotta check out this DFW Data Science meetup group! It's a haven for data geeks and anyone curious about the world of numbers and insights.

With almost 4,000 members and counting, it's a vibe where you can connect with some serious data masterminds.

The best part? These meetups aren't just about dry lectures, they're all about hands-on learning and real-world applications.

You've got experts breaking down complex topics like machine learning, data mining, and even AI in a way that's easy to grasp. Plus, they've got workshops where you can get your hands dirty with coding in Python, R, and other data tools.

But it's not all just tech talk, you know? These meetups are a great way to network with like-minded people and maybe even land your dream job in the data science field.

You'll meet professionals from top companies, entrepreneurs building their own startups, and even professors from local universities. It's a melting pot of brilliant minds, and you never know who you might connect with!

"Attending these meetups has been a pivotal part of my career in data science," says Elizabeth Miller. "The knowledge and connections I've gained are invaluable."

Fort Worth Tech Talks is the spot if you're looking to level up your tech game. It's like a quarterly meetup where the coolest cats in the local tech scene come together to share their knowledge and talk shop.

You got experts from all sorts of technical fields dropping mad insights and tips.

Some of the big names who've graced the stage include David Lopez, the VP of Engineering at a major company, who dropped some serious wisdom on scaling Agile for the big dogs.

Then there's Patricia Harris, the cybersecurity guru, who blew our minds with the latest threats and how to stay safe. And let's not forget John Gonzalez, the UX design queen, who led an interactive sesh on creating digital experiences that'll blow your mind.

The organizers make sure there are entry-level sessions to help newbies get a solid foundation.

One attendee even said, "Fort Worth Tech Talks is a goldmine for anyone just starting their tech journey. The vibe is welcoming, and the beginner sessions are on point."

Fort Worth Tech Talks is the perfect spot to network and connect with seasoned pros.

You could score a mentor or even land a sweet gig in the tech scene. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the local tech world, this event is an absolute must-attend.

Get ready to level up your tech game, because DevFest is coming to Fort Worth! This epic event, organized by the Google Developers Group (GDG), is the place to be if you're into coding, designing, or just geeking out over the latest tech trends.

It's like a massive techie party, but instead of lame music and cheap drinks, you get to indulge in mind-blowing workshops, killer speaker sessions, and a chance to connect with industry pros from Google and beyond.

Last year's DevFest 2024 in Jos, Nigeria, was a total blast, with themes like "Build with AI" and "Data" taking center stage.

But this year, Fort Worth is stepping it up with a lineup that's sure to blow your mind. Imagine chatting with experts about the future of Generative AI and Large Language Models, or getting the inside scoop on best practices for building apps with cutting-edge tools like Project IDX and the PaLM API. It's like a masterclass in staying ahead of the curve, but way more exciting than sitting in a stuffy classroom.

And let's not forget the epic after-parties and networking events, where you can mingle with fellow tech enthusiasts and maybe even land your dream internship or job.

DevFest is all about connecting with the community, sharing ideas, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the world of tech.

Mark your calendars, practice your coding skills, and get ready to experience the ultimate tech extravaganza in Fort Worth!

The Women Who Code Fort Worth Meetup is a part of a larger movement that started as a community group in 2011. It's all about bringing together a vibrant community of tech-savvy individuals who care about making the industry more diverse, inclusive, and equitable.

With over 360,000 members worldwide, this group is a powerhouse for empowering diverse women to excel in technology careers.

One of the coolest things about Women Who Code Fort Worth is their dedication to fostering a sense of belonging and support.

They've got a squad of over 1,000 volunteers leading local and digital communities, sharing knowledge through technical talks and mentoring sessions. Together, they've organized a mind-blowing 20,000+ community-led events, awarded millions in scholarships, and given away conference tickets galore.

But here's the catch – as of April 18, 2024, Women Who Code is closing its doors due to funding challenges.

While it's a bummer, they're encouraging women in tech to keep paying it forward with the connections and skills gained through this movement. The relationships and experiences gained through Women Who Code are meant to inspire future endeavors, even after the organization wraps up.

So, if you're looking to get involved with the Fort Worth chapter before it's too late, hit up their online communities like DFW Code & Coffee or Women Coding Community.

These groups are all about creating safe spaces for networking, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other's growth in the tech world.

The Fort Worth JavaScript Meetup is the place to be if you're into coding and want to level up your JavaScript skills.

With over 11,000 members, it's a massive community of coders who are all about sharing knowledge and supporting each other.

These meetups cover everything from the basics to the cutting-edge stuff.

You can catch workshops on JavaScript fundamentals or deep dives into React, Angular, you name it. And the best part? The vibe is super chill and inclusive, so don't be afraid to ask questions or share your own experiences.

They even have famous developers and experts stopping by to drop some serious wisdom.

But what really makes this meetup stand out is the support system for beginners.

You've got experienced coders volunteering to mentor newbies, guiding them through challenges and providing feedback. They also organize hands-on coding sessions and workshops tailored for different skill levels, so you can practice and apply what you've learned in a supportive environment.

And if you're just starting out, they've got you covered with entry-level discussions on JavaScript fundamentals, React, Node.js, and more.

Beyond the learning aspect, these meetups are a great way to network and potentially land job opportunities.

You'll be surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your passion for coding, and you never know who you might connect with. One member even shared that they went from zero coding experience to scoring their first junior frontend developer role, all thanks to the Fort Worth JavaScript Meetup community.

So, if you're serious about leveling up your JavaScript game, check out their meetup page and RSVP for the next event.

The TechMill Converge Conference is an epic annual event hosted by TechMill, Fort Worth's go-to tech hub and co-working space.

Since it kicked off in 2017, this conference has become the place to be for anyone who's into tech, whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started.

What makes the TechMill Converge Conference stand out is the wide range of cutting-edge topics it covers.

The 2024 edition is shaping up to be insane, with sessions on:

• Advancements in AI and machine learning that are changing the game
• Cybersecurity tips and tricks to stay ahead of the threats
• Cloud computing and serverless architectures that are revolutionizing the industry
• UX design and human-computer interaction that'll blow your mind
• Entrepreneurship and startup scenes that are taking Fort Worth by storm

With over 50 speakers and 30 sessions planned, you're guaranteed to find something that sparks your curiosity and fuels your passion.

If you're new to the tech world, the TechMill Converge Conference is an unmissable opportunity.

It's

"a melting pot of ideas, inspiration, and innovation,"

according to TechMill's Executive Director, Lisa Anderson, offering a supportive space for networking, hands-on workshops, and guidance from seasoned pros.

You'll get an inside look at the latest trends, explore potential career paths, and connect with like-minded folks, immersing yourself in Fort Worth's thriving tech scene from day one.

Plus, you might even discover your new passion or calling.

Check out this UX Research and Strategy group! It's a chill spot for anyone looking to get into the world of user experience (UX) design and research.

These folks get it - creating rad digital products means putting the user first. With over 1,400 members, it's one of the biggest UX meetups in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

If you're fresh to the scene, understanding how people interact with tech is key.

This meetup has your back with talks, workshops, and panel discussions covering all things UX, like:

• Usability Testing: Discover ways to spot issues and smooth out those user flows.
• Design Thinking: Embrace a people-first approach to problem-solving and innovation.
• UX Research: Dive into qualitative and quantitative research methods that drive data-backed design decisions.

According to the Nielsen Norman Group, a leading UX authority, "Demand for UX skills keeps climbing, with job postings for UX roles increasing by 8% in 2022." That's a clear sign that UX expertise is in high demand these days, making meetups like UX Research and Strategy an invaluable resource for beginners looking to break into the field.

"The UX Research and Strategy group has been an awesome resource for me as a newbie. The welcoming community and knowledgeable speakers have helped me grasp the fundamentals of user-centric design and given me the confidence to pursue UX as a career." - Nancy Gonzalez, UX Design Student

Whether you're a student, changing careers, or just passionate about creating awesome user experiences, this meetup is the perfect spot to network, learn from the pros, and stay up-to-date with the latest UX trends and best practices.

Have you heard about the Makerspace at Fort Worth Library? It's like a playground for tech geeks and creative minds! This place is packed with all sorts of cool gadgets and tools you can use to bring your ideas to life.

I'm talking 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics stations, and even woodworking gear. It's a hands-on paradise for anyone who loves to tinker, build, and explore.

But it's not just about the fancy equipment – the Makerspace also hosts a ton of awesome events and workshops.

You can learn coding, robotics, 3D design, and so much more. Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone to sink their teeth into.

Plus, you get to connect with other like-minded folks who share your passion for tech and creativity.

One of the coolest things about the Makerspace is the community vibe.

It's a collaborative space where you can bounce ideas off others, get feedback, and even find potential partners for your next big project. The possibilities are endless when you have access to the right tools and a supportive network of makers and innovators.

Hold up, let me tell you about this wild tech event called RebelCon.

It's a crazy weekend bash happening September 29-30 at Hollow Hill Event Center in Weatherford. Picture this: a two-day tech fest packed with cutting-edge VR and AR experiences, dope music acts, and a whole lot of outdoor adventures.

The lineup is straight fire.

We're talking keynote speakers like Travis Chamber from Chamber Media, Ricky Tejapaibul from Tech Wildcatters, and VR pioneer Lisa Wong.

There's even a concert on Saturday with 14-year-old rising star Remy Reilly, hip-hop artist 88 Killa, and electro-pop sensation LEV taking the stage.

But that's not all.

RebelCon is an immersive experience like no other. You can score a two-day all-access pass for $387, which hooks you up with:

• Speaking sessions: Engage with industry leaders and innovative thinkers.
• AR and VR experiences: Interact with the latest advancements in augmented and virtual reality.
• Music festival: Enjoy live performances from emerging and established artists.
• Bonfire chat with speakers: Participate in informal discussions around a campfire.
• Fitness workout session: Stay active with guided fitness routines.
• Swag bag: Receive exclusive goodies worth $500.

If you're feeling extra fancy, upgrade to VIP for $697 and get:

• Overnight glamping: Experience luxurious camping accommodations.
• Free food and drinks: Enjoy complimentary meals and beverages.
• High-value swag bag: Take home a swag bag valued at $1,000.

It's a no-brainer, am I right?

When it came to picking the top 10 tech meetups and conferences in Fort Worth, we didn't mess around. We went all out, doing mad research and gathering info from every corner to make sure our list was straight fire.

Here's how we did it:

• Checked event worthiness: First up, we checked if these events were actually worth the hype for all you beginners trying to make waves in the tech scene. We looked at the speakers, the topics, everything - making sure it lined up with what newbies need to level up their skills.
• Consulted the local tech community: But we didn't just trust our own judgment. We hit up the local tech community, the real ones who've been there and done that. Their insights on which events were beginner-friendly and had that supportive vibe were clutch. After all, networking is key, and we wanted to know where the real connections happen.
• Prioritized hands-on experiences: Speaking of connections, we prioritized events that gave you more than just theory - hands-on experiences, project collabs, the whole nine yards. The kind of stuff that'll make you stand out when you're hunting for that first gig at places like Elevate or other top tech companies.
• Diverse data sources: To cover all our bases, we scoured online event directories, meetup groups, reviews from past attendees - you name it. We even picked the brains of our own crew who had been to these shindigs before. With all that intel, you can bet your bottom dollar that our top 10 list is the real deal for anyone trying to break into the Fort Worth tech scene.