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

If you're a 20-something thinking about getting into tech in Lawrence, Kansas, the job market here is seriously on fire! Lawrence is packed with all kinds of tech companies, from fresh startups to big-name corps.

Based on the latest stats, the tech scene in Lawrence has been steadily growing, with a solid 12% bump in tech jobs over the past 5 years.

Some of the major tech players in town hiring like crazy include:

• Garmin International Inc. - They do GPS tech and software, super cool stuff.
• Payless ShoeSource - Don't sleep on their e-commerce and IT solutions game.
• Sunrise Systems - Killing it with software dev and IT consulting.
• Dope startups and remote workers for big tech names setting up shop here.

They're looking for talents in all sorts of areas like software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, and IT support.

As Lawrence's tech game keeps leveling up, you'll also find sick opportunities in coding, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence.

One local tech pro put it best:

"Lawrence has this awesome mix of established companies and innovative startups, making it the perfect spot to launch your tech career."

Oh, and if you're looking to break into Lawrence's tech scene, Nucamp's coding bootcamps can definitely give you the skills and connections to make it happen.

Switching careers from a non-tech background to a tech job in Lawrence isn't as hard as it seems. The truth is, you probably got skills already that'll give you an edge.

According to the Peaslee Tech crew, some of the most in-demand transferable skills for tech roles are:

• Problem-solving and analytical skills - Being able to break down complex issues, gather data, and come up with solutions is crucial for tech roles like software dev, data analysis, and cybersecurity.
• Communication and collaboration - Working well in teams, explaining technical stuff clearly, and fostering inclusive vibes are highly valued in the tech world.
• Adaptability and continuous learning - With technology constantly evolving, being willing to learn new skills and roll with the changes is key for success.

It's no wonder that soft skills are becoming more and more important in the tech game.

According to the Lawrence software development company rankings, 92% of local tech employers prioritize candidates with solid people skills, time management abilities, and a growth mindset.

As the tech scene in Lawrence keeps blooming, with companies like PayIt and Driving Demand leading the charge, having these transferable skills can make you a more competitive candidate.

Plus, resources like the Lawrence Public Schools Career and Technical Education program offer training to help you leverage your existing skillset and make a smooth transition into the local tech industry.

Lawrence, Kansas is the spot if you're trying to switch to a tech career! This city's got mad resources to help you level up. KU Boot Camps offer legit programs in web development, data analytics, and cybersecurity – perfect for newbies or seasoned pros.

And don't sleep on Nucamp Coding Bootcamp; their remote bootcamps are clutch for those looking to make a career pivot.

But it's not just about classes, Lawrence has a poppin' tech community where you can network and stay sharp.

Groups like Lawrence Code Club and Lawrence Tech Meetup host regular meetups for collaborations and staying up on the latest trends. And if you're looking for a more traditional education path, KU's got your back with degree programs like B.S. in Information Technology, B.S. in Computer Science, and M.S. in Data Science.

Beyond the classroom, Lawrence is brimming with resources to help you thrive in tech.

Spots like Code Ninjas offer dope coding camps for the young'uns, while places like Peaslee Tech and JCCC at Lawrence provide technical training and apprenticeships.

And don't forget about community hubs like The Laundry and the Lawrence Tech Community website – these are essential for finding local gigs, events, and staying plugged into the scene.

Building a killer tech portfolio is crucial if you wanna land that dream job in Lawrence. It's like your chance to show off your skills and let employers know you're the real deal.

Here's the scoop on how to make your portfolio pop:

1. Showcase your best projects: Showcase projects that align with what Lawrence companies are looking for, such as healthcare, education, and software development.
2. Highlight Lawrence connections: Emphasize your understanding of the local vibe in Lawrence. Create projects that benefit the community, such as a mobile app for city services or a website for a non-profit.
3. Document your process: Detail every step of your project work, including wireframes, code snippets, and user testing notes. This demonstrates your problem-solving skills.
4. Obtain testimonials: Gather testimonials from individuals like John Hernandez you've worked with on local projects. Quotes like "John's web app boosted our donations by 25%! He really got our local needs." can significantly enhance your portfolio's credibility.

Follow these tips, and your tech portfolio will be straight fire, showing off your skills and Lawrence love.

That's how you'll land your dream gig in this town, no doubt!

Trying to land a dope tech gig in Lawrence? Networking is key, my friend. It's all about connecting with people in the local scene and getting that insider knowledge.

Check out these business networking events in Lawrence - they're the perfect spot to rub shoulders with industry pros and maybe even score some sweet job leads.

Lawrence is home to KU Innovation Park, a hub for tech and bioscience companies.

They offer virtual tenancy options that let you access their dope workspace, events, and resources.

It's like a co-working space on steroids.

KanREN is a game-changer for Kansas institutions, providing cutting-edge internet services and expert support.

They're like the internet superhero we all need, keeping things running smoothly for businesses and schools across the state.

Bottom line? If you're looking to break into the tech scene in Lawrence, networking is non-negotiable. Get out there, make connections, and let the opportunities come to you. Who knows, your next big gig might be just around the corner!

Let's talk about tailoring your resume to nail those tech jobs in Lawrence. You gotta make it stand out by highlighting the skills and experience that match what companies here are looking for.

Even if you're switching from a non-tech background, brag about your problem-solving, attention to detail, and analytical skills - those are key. And if you've worked with local organizations or projects related to companies in Lawrence, definitely mention that.

It shows you're invested in the community.

When prepping for interviews, do your homework on the company's products, culture, and all that good stuff.

Then practice answering questions that test your technical knowledge and ability to think on your feet.

Companies here value good communication and teamwork just as much as your coding chops. Consider doing mock interviews to hone those soft skills.

To increase your visibility with local employers, check out job boards like the University of Kansas listings, Lawrence Tech Meetup group, and Topeka Area Regional Job Bank.

And don't be afraid to start small - lots of companies are open to helping entry-level folks learn on the job if you're committed.

The key is showing your genuine interest in Lawrence's tech scene.

Get involved in meetups, hackathons, or anything that connects you with the community. That kind of passion and drive is what makes companies here take notice.

Lawrence is the place to be if you want to switch gears and kickstart a career in tech! Just check out these inspiring individuals who made the leap from non-tech fields.

Their stories show that with the right mindset and hustle, anyone can excel in the tech world.

Take Jessica Rodriguez, for instance. This former teacher went from schooling kids to mastering web dev after enrolling in a coding bootcamp.

She admits feeling like a total fraud during interviews at first, but building cool projects and contributing to open-source codes helped her gain that boss-level confidence.

Now, she's excelling as a front-end developer at a software company in town.

Then there's Richard Lee, who traded in his sales manager role to crunch numbers as a data analyst.

He said wrapping his head around SQL and Python was challenging initially. But by joining meetup groups and participating in hackathons, he leveled up his skills like a pro.

His key advice? "Surround yourself with a supportive tech community that gets you."

Of course, changing careers isn't always a breeze.

Common roadblocks these tech trailblazers faced included feeling like an outsider without a formal tech background, battling imposter syndrome, and navigating the job market as a career-switcher.

But they powered through by immersing themselves in coding projects, attending local meetups, and highlighting their problem-solving and communication skills during interviews.

If you're in Lawrence and dreaming of a gig in tech, the moral of the story is clear: Stay hungry, keep learning through bootcamps or self-study, and build your network. With that grind mentality and refuse-to-lose spirit, scoring your dream job in tech is totally doable. These inspiring stories prove it!