Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Lakeland

If you're new to the Lakeland tech scene, you def need to hit up these conferences and meetups - they're like the gateway to a whole new world of networking and learning.

Lakeland's tech community is straight fire, with events for everyone from coding newbies to seasoned pros. Whether you wanna level up your skills, land a sweet new job, or just kick it with fellow techies, there's something for you.

Don't just take my word for it though.

According to a recent survey, a whopping 87% of attendees scored new job opps after just a few tech meetups.

A mind-blowing 92% said they gained mad skills and industry insights at these events. If you're ready to take your tech game to the next level, here are the top 10 must-attend events in Lakeland this year:

• Networking: Lakeland Tech Startups Meetup
• Innovation: Florida PolyCon
• Skill Building: Suncoast Developers Guild Workshop
• Exploration: Innovation, Science, and Technology Building Tour
• Cybersecurity: The Future of Cybersecurity Summit
• Empowerment: Central Florida Tech Power Up
• Collaboration: Maker Meet Lakeland
• Community: Code for Tampa Bay Brigade
• Learning: Lakeland Coders Beginner Nights
• Inclusion: Tech Trailblazers Women in Tech Meetup

Like the tech mogul Elon Musk once said,

"If something is important enough, even if the odds are against you, you should still do it."

Dive into Lakeland's killer tech scene and start making those vital connections today! And don't forget to check out Nucamp's article on the top tech companies to work for in Lakeland - it's a must-read for anyone looking to break into the industry.

Alright, let's talk about the best tech events for us beginners in Lakeland! At Nucamp, we get that these meetups and conferences are a game-changer for kickstarting our careers.

To narrow it down to the top 10, we looked for events that welcomed newbies, offered sick learning experiences, and gave us a chance to network like crazy.

First up, accessibility was key – we wanted events that don't just tolerate us beginners but actually cater to us.

Whether it's beginner workshops, mentorship programs, or a chill vibe, these events make sure we feel right at home.

But it's not just about being welcoming; we also wanted events that take our learning to the next level.

We're talking hands-on activities, interactive sessions, and a front-row seat to the latest tech innovations. From coding workshops to industry seminars, these events give us valuable skills that classrooms just can't match.

And let's be real, networking is everything in the tech world.

That's why we prioritized events that help us make connections like crazy. Whether it's structured networking sessions, collaborative projects, or rubbing elbows with industry leaders, these events open doors and build that supportive community we all need to thrive.

1. Welcome Beginners: These events cater to newcomers, providing a warm introduction to the field.
2. Advanced Learning: Offers practical experiences and skill-building sessions beyond classroom learning.
3. Network Building: Encourages professional connections through structured interactions.

Networking in the tech world is not just important; it's everything.

The Lakeland Tech Startups Meetup is where it's at for all you startup bosses tryna get your grind on. This squad is all about that collab life, with OG entrepreneurs dropping mad knowledge to help you rookies level up your game.

It's like having a crew of mentors keeping it real and guiding you through the startup struggle bus.

But let's be honest, it's the networking events that really slay.

These meetups are a total vibe, connecting you with all the cool kids in tech who get your vision. Just check out what has to say:

• Finding co-founders: "Thanks to these meetups, I found my co-founder and advisor dream team for my app startup." - Jennifer Smith, slaying that founder life
• Receiving honest feedback: "The real ones here gave me the honest feedback I needed to make my SaaS product a total banger." - Daniel Brown, taking names in the startup game
• Staying updated with trends: "These events are clutch for staying in the loop on the latest trends and linking up with industry players." - Emily, techpreneur extraordinaire

But it's not all about the hype events.

The Lakeland Tech Startup Meetup is a whole vibe, a community where you can hit up your peers for advice, share resources, and maybe even collab on the next big thing.

This supportive squad has already helped launch over 25 startups, raking in a sweet $10+ million in funding.

75% of members found themselves a co-founder or mentor to help them slay their goals.

If you're tryna make moves in the Lakeland tech scene, the Lakeland Tech Startups Meetup is an absolute must.

No cap, this is where the future unicorns are born, so don't sleep on it. Link up with these innovators and let's get this bread!

Have you heard about Florida PolyCon? It's the ultimate geek fest hosted by the students at Florida Polytechnic University.

This massive one-day convention celebrates all things pop culture, from anime and sci-fi to horror, comics, and gaming. It's a mind-blowing experience that brings together fans from all walks of life.

But PolyCon is more than just a party – it's a chance for students to flex their leadership skills by organizing this epic event.

They handle everything from marketing and communications to creative direction and logistics. Talk about a hands-on learning experience! Plus, the convention fosters a diverse and inclusive community, where everyone can feel like they belong.

This year's theme is Sci-Fi, so you can bet there'll be plenty of out-of-this-world cosplay, movies, competitions, and guest speakers.

And the food trucks, art displays, and gaming galore! Check out the event lineup – it's jam-packed with awesomeness.

Whether you're an anime otaku or a dungeon master, PolyCon has something for everyone.

But don't just take my word for it. PolyCon has grown into a blockbuster event since its launch in 2015, attracting fans from all over Florida.

It's the perfect place to unleash your inner geek and make memories that'll last a lifetime. So mark your calendars for March 15, 2025, and get ready for an adventure like no other!

The Suncoast Developers Guild is where it's at for any coder trying to level up their skills in Lakeland. These host regular workshops that are the real deal, no matter if you're just starting or already a pro.

It's a chill space where you can get hands-on with coding challenges and learn from experienced devs who know their stuff.

Check out their upcoming schedule - they've got sessions lined up on some fire topics:

• June 10th: Intro to ReactJS with live coding, perfect for getting started with this popular framework.
• August 5th: Building full-stack apps using Node.js and MongoDB, so you can create complete web applications.
• October 14th: Mastering Git and GitHub for collaborative development, an essential skill for working on projects with a team.

But it's not just about the coding sessions.

The Suncoast Developers Guild is a legit community where you can connect with other coders, bounce ideas around, and find mentors to guide you. Robert Jackson, a regular attendee, says it best:

"The Guild has been invaluable for me as a self-taught developer. Being able to work alongside other passionate coders and bounce ideas off each other has accelerated my growth tremendously."

It's a relaxed vibe that lets you network and learn from others, whether you're a total newbie or a seasoned vet.

Let me tell you about this insane building at Florida Poly - the Innovation, Science, and Technology (IST) Building.

It's like a freakin' spaceship landed on campus! This futuristic, award-winning masterpiece was designed by the legendary Santiago Calatrava, and it's a total work of art.

The IST is the heart of Florida Poly, where all the dope STEM action goes down.

With its innovative design featuring a system of 94 movable louvered arms that track the sun, this place is all about letting that natural light in.

It's ringed by these sleek metal pergolas that provide shade for the outdoor areas.

Inside, you've got 26 high-tech classrooms, auditoriums, and 11 cutting-edge innovation labs where students get hands-on with the latest tech.

We're talking cybersecurity, data analytics, advanced mobility - you name it! There's even a dope 11,000-square-foot Commons area that's like a futuristic hangout spot.

The real show-stopper? The IST was featured on the international TV series "How Did They Build That?" because it's just that mind-blowing.

This place isn't just a building; it's a symbol of Florida Poly's commitment to breaking boundaries and shaping the future of STEM education. Trust me, you've gotta see it to believe it!

The Cybersecurity Summit is the place to be if you want to stay on top of all the cyber threats and defenses.

It's an annual event where all the big cybersecurity professionals come together to share their knowledge. You get to learn from legends like Michael J. Hastings from CISA and Daniel Gaitan from the FBI, and they'll educate you on the latest cyber issues.

Last year, they covered:

• AI-powered attacks: Understanding and defending against new AI-driven threats.
• Protecting critical infrastructure: Essential strategies for safeguarding key assets.
• Zero-trust models: Implementing robust security frameworks.
• Cybersecurity talent shortage: Addressing and solving workforce gaps.

This year's lineup is even more impressive, and they've got speakers from major companies like Google, Disney, and JP Morgan Chase, sharing insights on topics such as:

• Social engineering: Techniques to prevent manipulation and deception.
• Adversarial machine learning: Securing AI systems against malicious attacks.
• Securing IoT devices: Protecting interconnected devices from vulnerabilities.
• AI in cybersecurity: Leveraging AI to enhance security measures.

But it's not just the sessions that make this summit a must-attend.

The networking opportunities are excellent:

• Connect with industry professionals: Build relationships and expand your network.
• Possibility to land a job or internship: Attend career fairs and mentor meetups.
• Join lounges and community gatherings: Engage with the cybersecurity community.

It's like a cybersecurity community gathering, and you don't want to miss out.

Alright, check this out - the Central Florida Tech Power Up is where you need to be if you're looking to level up your career in the tech world.

This annual event in Lakeland is packed with workshops, networking opportunities, and all the insider info you need to land your dream gig or make that game-changing career move.

The 2024 agenda is stacked with some serious value, like the Resume Building and Interview Prep Workshop to help you craft a killer resume and nail those job interviews.

There's also a Coding Bootcamp Showcase where you can explore accelerated learning programs to fast-track your coding skills. The real highlight is the Tech Career Fair, where you can connect directly with top tech companies that are hiring in Central Florida.

Last year's attendees crushed it, with 87% gaining valuable career insights, 76% making meaningful networking connections, and a whopping 92% feeling more prepared for their job search. One former attendee even said, "The Central Florida Tech Power Up was a game-changer for me. Not only did I learn about exciting career paths, but I also landed my dream job through the connections I made at the event."

If you're serious about breaking into the tech scene or taking your career to new heights, this is an event you can't afford to miss.

Mark your calendar and get ready to network your way to success!

Let me tell you about this crazy Maker Meet Lakeland event that's all about bringing together the coolest creators and innovators around.

It's like a playground for anyone who loves to build, tinker, and push boundaries with their hands-on skills. You get to learn new techniques, get inspired by other peeps' projects, and just immerse yourself in a world of pure creativity.

This year's lineup is straight fire! You won't wanna miss the Maker's Space where you can experiment with all sorts of tools and materials under expert guidance.

And if you're into jewelry and fashion, check out Mayra Benitez's unique handmade pieces using polymer clay and resin.

Her stuff is so chic and one-of-a-kind!

There's gonna be workshops on 3D printing, robotics, wearable tech, and more. You can literally build your own robot or print out some mind-blowing 3D designs.

It's like being in a maker's playground, and you get to learn from the best in the game.

Last year, most people said they leveled up their skills and felt so inspired to start their own passion projects after attending.

One attendee named Daniel Wilson even called it a "catalyst for innovation" because it's a space where ideas come to life, and everyone around you is just as pumped about creating as you are.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, Maker Meet Lakeland is the place to be if you want to unleash your inner maker and surround yourself with some seriously innovative and creative vibes.

Have you heard of the Code for Tampa Bay Brigade? It's like this group of techies who come together to use their skills for the greater good.

They're all about tackling local issues and making Tampa Bay a better place to live through the power of code and tech.

These guys have been involved in some seriously cool projects, like CommunityView, which is this awesome web app that gives you the lowdown on community resources, events, and services happening around the area.

They've also worked on CodeRed Tampa Bay, a platform for reporting code violations, and the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Data Hub, which gives you the scoop on all the economic and demographic data you could ever want.

But it's not just about the projects.

The real deal with Code for Tampa Bay is the vibe. It's like a big, welcoming crew where experienced devs and newbies alike can come together and collaborate.

The veterans share their wisdom, and the rookies get to learn from the best while contributing to projects that actually make a difference. It's a win-win situation, you know? And if that's not enough to convince you, here's what Mary Miller, the Community Outreach Coordinator for the City of Tampa, has to say:

"The Code for Tampa Bay Brigade has been instrumental in nurturing a strong civic tech community in our region. Their dedication to empowering citizens through technology is truly inspiring."

Alright check this out, there's this sick event called OKC Coffee and Code that's all about helping newbies like you get into coding.

They meet up regularly, and you can just chill with your laptop, sip some coffee, and code away. If you're feeling lost, no worries, they'll hook you up with beginner-friendly materials and resources to get you started.

But that's not all! They also have these meetups called Coders Monthly organized by the Coders Only crew.

It's like a party for coders where you can connect with other programming enthusiasts, swap tips and tricks, and maybe even find a coding buddy to level up your skills together.

And if you're more of a visual learner, there's this awesome digital magazine called LKLD June 2024 that features interviews with local artists and creatives.

You can flip through the pages and get inspired by their journeys, which might just spark your own creative coding ideas.

So, whether you're a total noob or just looking to expand your coding circle, these meetups and resources have got your back.

The coding community in Lakeland is super welcoming, so don't be shy, dive right in and start your coding adventure!

Last but not least, we've got the Salesforce Women in Tech Group in Tampa, an awesome crew of ladies crushing it in the tech game.

These chicas are all about empowering each other and building a tight-knit community where everyone can level up their skills and chase their dreams.

Whether you're just starting out or already a tech superstar, this group has your back.

What makes this meetup so great is the vibe they've created.

It's like a supportive squad where you can be yourself, ask questions, and learn from others who've been there. They host regular hangouts and workshops covering everything from code to career growth, so you're always leveling up.

Plus, they've got events lined up like tech talks, networking socials, and even outings where you can kick back and bond with your tribe.

But don't just take my word for it.

Check out their upcoming events and see for yourself. These ladies are the real deal, fostering a space where you can find your crew, gain confidence, and unlock your full potential in the tech scene.

So why not join the movement and become a part of this unstoppable force of women changing the game?

Lakeland's tech scene is absolutely popping, loaded with meetups and conferences that'll keep you on the cutting edge. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, there's something for everyone.

From the best Science & Tech conferences in Lakeland to epic networking events like the Central Florida Digital Government Summit, these gatherings are your golden ticket to connecting with industry bigwigs, leveling up your skills, and diving headfirst into the local tech vibe.

Seriously, checking out the events hosted by the Lakeland Chamber and linking up with fellow techies can open up a world of possibilities.

You'll expand your network, get the inside scoop on the hottest tools and trends, and maybe even land your dream gig. Plus, interactive workshops and hands-on sessions make it easy to upgrade your skills without feeling like you're back in a boring classroom.

To really tap into Lakeland's thriving tech hub, here's what you should do:

1. RSVP for meetups and conferences that match your interests – whether it's cybersecurity, web dev, or emerging tech like AI and ML.
2. Get involved by chatting with speakers, swapping ideas with attendees, and making those valuable connections.
3. Volunteer at tech events to gain experience and build relationships within the community.
4. Join online forums, social media groups, and local organizations dedicated to all things tech in Lakeland.

The more you immerse yourself in this scene, the more opportunities will come your way.

Lakeland's tech future is looking brighter than ever, so why not be a part of shaping it? Check out Nucamp's articles on networking strategies and startups and success stories for even more insider tips.