Top 10 Strategies for Networking Your Way into Lawrence's Tech Scene

Real talk, Lawrence is where it's at for young tech hustlers like us! This sleepy college town is low-key a rising star when it comes to the tech game. Check this out - Lawrence is growing tech jobs faster than any other city in America, according to data from the big dogs at the Brookings Institution.

The city saw a mind-blowing 16% growth in tech jobs during 2019-2020, leaving even major hubs like San Francisco and Austin eating dust.

But what's really dope is the community vibe here.

The Lawrence Tech Conference is going down in April, bringing together industry pros, academics, and aspiring coders like us for some next-level networking.

And let's not forget about the OGs at KU Innovation Park, where startups are crushing it while tapping into the university's brain power.

It's a recipe for success!

So, if you're looking to level up your tech skills and make some serious connections, Lawrence should definitely be on your radar.

The opportunities are endless in this low-key hotbed of innovation and collaboration.

Check this out - the Lawrence Technology Association (LTA) is where it's at if you wanna get ahead in Lawrence's tech scene.

Founded in 2008, it's a tight-knit community of over 500 techies from all kinds of backgrounds, united by their passion for innovation and growth.

Joining the LTA opens up a world of opportunities:

• Career Boost: Gain access to exclusive job boards, recruitment events, and connect with potential employers or clients who could be your next big break.
• Level Up: Workshops, seminars, and training sessions led by industry pros will help you stay ahead of the curve.
• Network Goals: Mingle with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations or partnerships that could take your career to new heights.
• Community Impact: Get involved in local tech initiatives, mentor up-and-comers, and shape the future of Lawrence's tech landscape.

To make the most of your membership, the LTA hooks you up with a diverse lineup of events and activities:

1. Monthly Meetups: Network, learn about cutting-edge tech, and engage in discussions that'll blow your mind.
2. Annual Tech Conference: Attend keynotes, panels, and breakout sessions led by renowned industry leaders who'll inspire you to dream big.
3. Hackathons and Coding Challenges: Team up, showcase your skills, and tackle real-world problems with innovative solutions.
4. Mentorship Programs: Share your expertise as a mentor or gain guidance from seasoned pros to accelerate your career growth.

The LTA is all about avoiding those pitfalls and fostering a collaborative, growth-oriented tech ecosystem in Lawrence.

Let's talk about these dope Tech Cocktail Meetups in Lawrence. These monthly events are where it's at for networking with the local tech scene.

You got entrepreneurs, developers, designers, and all kinds of tech geeks coming together to connect and discuss the latest innovations.

The vibe at these meetups is chill, but the networking game is strong.

With around 50-100 people showing up, you get to mingle and make organic connections. It's the perfect chance to exchange those business cards, learn about job openings, or find partners for your next big project.

And the best part? The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to bond over shared interests and build lasting professional relationships.

To really slay these events, you gotta come prepared.

Do your research on the topic beforehand so you can contribute to discussions and flex your knowledge. And don't just talk, listen too – ask questions and engage with what others have to say.

After the event, hit up your new contacts and keep the conversation going. Consistency is key, so make it a habit to attend regularly and become an active part of the Lawrence tech community.

One attendee summed it up perfectly:

"The Tech Cocktail Meetups in Lawrence have been a game-changer for expanding my network and staying on top of industry trends. The diverse crowd and engaging discussions make these events a must-attend."

LinkedIn Learning at KU is a total game-changer when it comes to networking in Lawrence's tech scene.

This online library is packed with courses covering everything from using Microsoft Office to editing videos and leading project teams. But it's not just about learning new skills; it's a gateway to connecting with fellow tech enthusiasts and industry professionals right here in Lawrence.

The Lawrence LinkedIn Professional Group is where it's at.

With over 2,500 members, this online community is buzzing with opportunities to connect with Lawrence's thriving startups and success stories.

It's like having a direct line to the movers and shakers in the local tech world. You can discover job openings, get the inside scoop on industry events, and even prepare for tech job interviews by tapping into the collective wisdom of seasoned professionals.

But it's not just about taking – you gotta give back too.

Share your own insights, ask questions, and engage in discussions. The more you contribute, the more you'll stand out as a thought leader in the community. And who knows, that killer coding project you showcased might just catch the eye of a potential employer or mentor.

Have you heard about the Future Proof Festival? It's that dope annual event in Huntington Beach, California, where the tech and finance worlds collide.

This year, from September 15-18, it's gonna be an absolute blast! They're expecting over 4,500 financial advisors, wealth management bosses, and limited partners to show up.

And we're talking a whopping $T in total firm assets under management represented at this shindig. Insane, right? But that's not even the best part. They've got this crazy one-to-one meetings program called Breakthru lined up, where they'll facilitate over 30,000 pre-scheduled, 15-minute introductory meetings between attendees.

Talk about efficient networking, am I right? And the speaker lineup? Oh man, it's stacked with 80% C-level execs, chosen purely based on merit, not their marketing budgets.

You know you're gonna get some serious insights from these heavy hitters. But it's not all business. They've got 30+ mind-blowing experiences planned, like workshops, panel discussions, brand activations, music, and art, all set against the backdrop of that gorgeous Huntington Beach vibe.

It's like Coachella, but for the finance and tech crowd. I'm telling you, this TechChicago Week is shaping up to be the event of the year.

From July 23-25, the city's tech scene is gonna be lit, with flagship events, networking hubs, staged talks by industry leaders, and even employment opportunities for us up-and-comers. Just picture it - you, rubbing elbows with the movers and shakers of Chicago's tech world, maybe even landing your dream gig in the process.

And the best part? Many of the events are free with limited capacity, so you better snag those tickets fast. Oh, and let's not forget about SXSW 2024's Tech Industry Track.

From March 8-15, it's gonna be an absolute tech extravaganza in Austin, Texas. We're talking cutting-edge topics like cybersecurity, Web3, the future of Big Tech, and Austin's rise as a global tech hub.

Keynotes, featured speakers, panels, workshops - they've got it all. I'm already counting down the days until I can immerse myself in this tech madness and maybe even catch a conversation with the one and only Michael Dell himself.

It's gonna be epic, and you better not miss out on the action.

Hackathons have become a powerful way for tech geeks to network and level up their skills, and Lawrence's Code for Lawrence community is all over it. These intense events bring together coders, designers, and problem-solvers to create innovative solutions in a short time.

Data shows over 200 participants have joined Code for Lawrence hackathons since 2016.

The collaborative nature of these hackathons is a prime opportunity for networking and knowledge sharing.

As Code for Lawrence co-founder Sarah Hill puts it,

"Hackathons mix together talent, where strangers become teammates working toward a shared goal. The connections made during these events often turn into lasting professional relationships."

There are success stories like the team that built an app to help residents find affordable housing, which local organizations supported.

Hackathons aren't just for networking - they're a breeding ground for honing essential skills like agile development, collaboration, solving problems on a time crunch, and pitching ideas.

As participant Susan White says,

"Hackathons pushed me out of my comfort zone, making me learn new tech and work with seasoned pros. It was an invaluable growth experience."

To make it accessible, Code for Lawrence offers beginner-friendly hackathons and mentors, fostering an inclusive community.

The impact of Code for Lawrence extends beyond individual growth; their hackathons have produced numerous civic tech projects tackling local issues, like a website promoting recycling initiatives and a mobile app locating public art.

Through partnerships with groups like the City of Lawrence and Public Library, these solutions can create real change in the community.

The Lawrence Public Library's SOUND+VISION Studio is a community space that hosts all kinds of cool workshops to level up your tech game and meet fellow tech enthusiasts.

This place is the real deal, giving you the tools and connections to explore your creative side and pick up new skills.

Their workshop lineup is stacked with something for everyone, whether you're just starting out or already a pro.

From coding and web dev basics to advanced audio and video production, they've got you covered. According to their website, last year alone they hosted over 75 workshops with like 1,200 people attending.

Some of the most popular ones were:

• Explore Digital Photography and Editing techniques to enhance your creative projects.
• Unleash the potential of 3D Printing and Modeling in your concepts.
• Dive into Game Development with Unity for an immersive tech experience.
• Get started with Intro to Python Programming, a foundational tech skill.
• Master WordPress Website Building for creating dynamic web platforms.

But it's not just about learning new stuff, these workshops are also a great way to network and connect with other techies.

You get to collab with peers, bounce ideas off each other, and even meet industry pros who sometimes teach the sessions. According to a recent survey, 82% of attendees said they made valuable contacts that helped them level up their careers.

The SOUND+VISION Studio is a prime example of how community resources can help nurture a thriving tech scene.

By offering accessible and affordable workshops, they're empowering people to stay ahead of the game and keep sharpening their skills. As Lawrence's tech community continues to grow, initiatives like this are key to developing talent and fostering those crucial professional connections.

"The SOUND+VISION Studio has been an invaluable resource for me. Not only have I learned invaluable skills, but I've also met some incredible people who have helped shape my career path," shared a local web developer Daniel Moore.

The KU Center for Digital Inclusion is a super cool place where they're all about making tech accessible for everyone. It's a hub that brings people together to learn digital skills, get mentored, and work on dope projects that actually make a difference in the community.

If you want to get involved, here are some ways to do it:

• Student Opportunities: College kids can join the Digital Inclusion Project and come up with creative solutions to help people access technology.
• Collaborative Projects: Team up with professors, researchers, and industry peeps to tackle real-world digital inclusion challenges. It's a massive brainstorming session where you get to put your skills to the test.
• Community Engagement: The Center is always hosting workshops, hackathons, and outreach programs to spread digital literacy, especially for underprivileged communities. It's a chance to give back while learning new stuff.

By getting involved with this place, you can unlock some seriously cool networking perks:

1. Shared Passion: Meet people who are just as stoked about using tech to make the world better.
2. Professional Guidance: Get guidance from experienced pros in academics, research, and the industry.
3. Skill Advancement: Level up your skills through hands-on projects and workshops, making you a fierce competitor in the job market.
4. Career Connections: Build connections with potential employers, opening doors to internships and gigs in Lawrence's buzzing tech scene.

The KU Center for Digital Inclusion is a nexus where technology, community, and career growth collide.

As Dr. Sharon Brett, the Center's Director, puts it,

"The Center empowers people to harness the transformative power of tech to create a more equitable and inclusive society."

It's a place where you can learn practical skills while making a positive impact.

Check this out – the Cider Gallery Co-Working Space in Lawrence is where it's at for all you hustlers and go-getters trying to make moves in the tech world.

This place is lit, bro! It's like a playground for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and startups to grind, collab, and level up their ventures. The vibe is electric, and the energy is contagious.

One of the coolest things about the Cider Gallery is the chance to connect with other like-minded peeps and tap into a goldmine of knowledge and expertise.

They're always hosting dope events and workshops tailored to the needs of startups, giving you the opportunity to learn from seasoned pros and gain insights into the biz dev game.

Some of the must-attend networking opportunities include:

• Weekly Roundtables: Where members come together to share updates, bounce ideas off each other, and get feedback from fellow go-getters.
• Startup Showcase Events: Your chance to flex your startup's products or services, gain exposure, and potentially lock down some game-changing partnerships.
• Mentorship Programs: Experienced mentors dropping gems and guiding early-stage startups towards success.

But it's not just about the networking game – collaborating with startups at the Cider Gallery can unlock a whole new level of benefits.

As the co-founders put it, "Working alongside other driven individuals in a collaborative environment can spark creativity, foster innovation, and lead to potential collaborations or partnerships." Members who've been there, done that, can vouch for these perks:

1. Diverse Skill Set: Access to a diverse skill set and expertise across various domains.
2. Idea Cross-Pollination: Opportunities for cross-pollination of ideas and potential business synergies.
3. Supportive Community: Exposure to a supportive community that celebrates entrepreneurial success.

"The Cider Gallery has been instrumental in the growth of our startup. The collaborative spirit and the wealth of knowledge shared by fellow members have been invaluable," shared Elizabeth Jackson.

By immersing yourself in the dynamic ecosystem of the Cider Gallery Co-Working Space, you can unlock a vast network of resources, foster meaningful connections, and gain invaluable insights to propel your venture to the next level.

Real talk - getting involved with the Douglas County Tech Meetups is a total game-changer for anyone trying to level up their network in the local tech scene.

These gatherings are like a magnet for all the coolest professionals, entrepreneurs, and tech geeks in the area. It's the perfect place to connect with like-minded peeps and soak up all kinds of awesome knowledge.

According to some fancy research, folks who regularly attend these local meetups are 3.5 times more likely to score sweet job opportunities through referrals.

Being part of a tight-knit community like this means you've got a solid support system to get advice, explore potential collabs, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends.

It's a total win-win situation.

Here's the deal - to really make the most of these Douglas County Tech Meetups, you gotta:

1. Show up consistently - it's all about building those long-term connections.
2. Get involved and speak up - ask questions, share your expertise, and make yourself known.
3. Follow through - if you meet someone dope, hit 'em up afterwards and explore potential synergies.
4. Offer value - volunteer, mentor, or share your mad skills to give back to the community.

According to the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation (KTEC), peeps who leverage these local networks reported a 25% higher job satisfaction rate and better career growth opportunities.

Seriously, it's a no-brainer.

"Lawrence's tech community is so welcoming and supportive. The Douglas County Tech Meetups have been a total lifesaver for expanding my network and staying in the loop with industry updates." - Patricia Harris, Software Engineer at CyberTrusted

Bottom line, getting involved with these meetups is like unlocking a whole new world of opportunities and connections.

It's a vibrant ecosystem dedicated to fostering innovation and collab, and you definitely want to be a part of it.

If you're trying to get your hustle on in the Lawrence tech scene, you gotta hit up the Kansas Technology Enterprise Corporation (KTEC) events. These folks are all about boosting the tech game across the state, so they know what's up.

Their biggest shindig is the KTEC Summit in Overland Park droppin' in September 2024.

We're talkin' over 1,000 people from all kinds of industries, plus some dope keynote speakers and panel discussions to keep you in the loop on the latest tech trends.

That's not all, KTEC has your back with a ton of other networking ops:

• Quarterly KTEC Meetups in cities like Lawrence, Topeka, and Wichita, where you can link up with local tech bosses and pick their brains.
• The KTEC Startup Showcase for all you aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch your ideas to investors, mentors, and industry pros.
• KTEC Industry Roundtables to dive deep into hot topics like AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity, and connect with others who are just as hyped about that ish.

When you get involved with these events, here's what you're scoring:

1. Professional network across Kansas: Rub elbows with leaders, investors, and innovators.
2. Tech trends and funding: Get the inside scoop on the latest updates and opportunities.
3. Guidance or partnerships: Seek mentorship or potential collaborations for projects or startups.
4. Job prospects or talent: Discover job opportunities or recruit new talent for your team.

Just ask Lisa Garcia, CEO of a Wichita tech firm.

She said,

"KTEC events have been clutch for our growth. We've locked in partnerships, attracted top talent, and gained insights that have taken our success to the next level in the region and beyond."

So, if you're tryna level up in the Lawrence tech game, KTEC is where it's at.