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

Houston is seriously killing it when it comes to tech jobs! The city is at the top of the leaderboard for tech job growth in Texas, with openings skyrocketing by a crazy 45.6% this year.

Major players like Dell, IBM, and AWS can't get enough Houston talent, and the average tech salary is a sweet $100K! But it's not just corporate giants - Houston's startup scene is popping off with unicorns like Cart.com moving their HQ here.

SXSW even spotlighted how Houston's diverse industries are fueling collabs that drive innovation. With all these opportunities, folks are flocking here for tech gigs.

Check out Nucamp's coding bootcamps to accelerate your career switch!

The tech scene in Houston is totally popping, and getting in on the action might be easier than you think, even if your background isn't strictly tech-related.

According to the experts, a whopping 54% of jobs at tech companies are non-technical, which means your skillset from a different field could be a major asset.

Sure, you might not be a coding wizard (yet), but transferable skills are where it's at.

For starters, those communication and people skills you've honed over the years? Companies like GitLab and Zapier are all about that collaborative spirit.

Same goes for problem-solving and critical thinking – if you've got experience in healthcare, finance, or logistics, you're already a pro at analyzing situations and finding solutions.

Tech projects in Houston's major industries like energy and aerospace rely heavily on organizational badasses who can keep things running smoothly.

The bottom line is, companies in Houston's booming tech hub are actively seeking out diverse backgrounds and fresh perspectives.

As Unmudl points out, skills like adaptability, communication, and leadership can be total game-changers when it comes to unlocking new career opportunities in tech.

So don't sell yourself short – your non-tech experience might just be the secret weapon that helps you score your dream job in Houston's cutting-edge tech world.

Houston is the place to be if you're looking to get a job in tech.

The city has so many choices for leveling up your skills. You've got coding bootcamps like Nucamp that offer accelerated training to get you job-ready fast. Their programs cover the hottest areas like full-stack web dev, data analytics, and cybersecurity.

And they even have a job guarantee, so you know you're getting legit training.

But if you're more of a traditional learner, Houston's universities like UH and Rice have your back with their computer science and engineering degrees.

Or you could go for online courses from places like Coursera and Udacity to learn at your own pace. The point is, Houston has options for days when it comes to breaking into tech.

One thing that really stands out is Nucamp's coding bootcamps.

Their project-based approach gets you working on real-world scenarios, so you're prepped for the job market. They cover full-stack web dev over 22 weeks, data analytics in 17 weeks, and a 20-week cybersecurity program.

And with an 82% job placement rate within 180 days, they're legit.

No matter which route you take, Houston has plenty of ways to upgrade your skills and score a sweet tech gig.

It's just a matter of finding the right fit for your lifestyle and goals.

If you're trying to get a sweet tech job in Houston, networking is key.

This city is popping with tech meetups and communities where you can make connections and learn the ropes. It's all about building relationships, you feel me? Peep events like the Houston Tech & Finance Networking Event to link up with industry pros and get the inside scoop.

And don't sleep on those online communities either – joining Houston Tech groups can open up mad opportunities.

Just put yourself out there, ask questions, and let your passion for tech shine through. Before you know it, you'll be building connections that could lead to your dream gig.

When it comes to scoring that sweet tech gig in Houston, having a killer resume and cover letter is key.

Your resume should show off all the skills and experiences that match what they're looking for – whether it's coding languages, databases, or dev methodologies.

Don't forget to highlight the transferable skills you picked up from your non-tech background too, like problem-solving, communication, and project management – tech companies appreciate that.

As for the cover letter, make sure to tailor it to the specific company and role you're going after.

Let them know why you're passionate about tech, and give them a glimpse of your achievements and how your unique background makes you a strong candidate. Maybe throw in a quick story or example that shows off your problem-solving skills or tech savviness.

To really step up your job hunt game, tap into local resources and job boards made for Houston's tech scene:

• Houston Technica: This non-profit is all about supporting women in tech, with job listings and networking events.
• Built In Houston: An online community with company profiles, job postings, and the latest tech news in Houston.
• Join Houston Tech Online Communities: Virtually connect with local tech professionals for better opportunities.

Organizations like the Houston Hispanic Forum and Houston Technology Center are also solid for networking and career resources in the area.

But don't neglect interview preparation.

Do your research on the company, practice answering common tech interview questions, and come prepared with some insightful questions to ask them. Hitting up local tech meetups or online communities can help you stay in the loop with industry trends and sharpen your tech knowledge too.

As Barbara Harris, a former accountant who's now a software engineer in Houston, said,

"Switching careers is daunting, but proper preparation and a genuine passion for technology can make all the difference."

She dedicated countless hours to leveling up her tech skills, networking, and practicing for interviews – and it paid off significantly.

By creating a standout resume and cover letter, using local resources to your advantage, and preparing diligently for interviews, you'll be well on your way to landing that dream tech job in Houston.

And if you're looking to make the switch, consider coding bootcamps with job guarantees – they could be a valuable opportunity.

Houston's tech scene is fire, and it's welcoming all kinds of peeps who wanna switch careers and join the fun. Check out these inspiring stories of folks who left their old gigs behind and made the leap into tech.

Take Linda Rodriguez, for instance.

She used to sell cars for Mercedes, but coding was her true passion. After grinding through Nucamp's bootcamp, she scored a sweet Software Engineer role at DICK'S Sporting Goods.

Then there's James Martinez, who went from leading a team at a law firm to becoming a Web Developer at a digital marketing agency. Peeps like them prove that making a career change to tech is totally doable.

Houston's tech job market is booming too.

According to recent stats, our city ranks #5 nationwide for the increase in tech job postings from 2021 to 2022.

With companies like Asurion, AWS, and Dell setting up shop here, there are plenty of opportunities to land a rad tech gig. Plus, check out these tips from Nucamp on snagging a remote tech role right here in H-Town.

So, if you're feeling stuck in your current job and dreaming of a career in tech, don't sleep on Houston.

With the right mindset, some solid training like Nucamp's bootcamps, and a bit of hustle, you could be the next success story in our city's thriving tech community.