Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Milwaukee

Milwaukee's tech scene is buzzing harder than a beehive! This city is a hotspot for all the major tech companies, from cloud computing giants to cutting-edge startups.

With over 350 companies calling it home, there's a ton of action going down. According to the folks at Tech Behemoths, the IT workforce has grown by 10% in just five years, hitting almost 25,000 professionals crushing it in fields like software engineering, data analysis, and UI/UX design.

The city's even keeping up with the latest tools and trends, so you know the skills you'll gain here are legit. Milwaukee is a total hub for sick tech events and conferences like Summerfest Tech, where you can network, level up your skills, and maybe even catch a sweet performance while you're at it.

And let's not forget about the Hour of Tech initiative, inspiring the next generation of techies by showing students how awesome this field truly is.

With so much happening, it's no wonder companies like Molson Coors are getting in on the action, boosting the scene even further.

Milwaukee is definitely proving itself as a rising star in the tech world, and with innovative programs like those offered by Nucamp, you can kickstart your career and be a part of this exciting journey.

When putting together the top 10 must-attend tech meetups and conferences in Milwaukee, we made sure to do our homework and take a closer look at what really matters.

It wasn't just about the hype or popularity, but the actual value these events could bring to the table.

First up, we checked if the events were relevant to the current tech scene.

Nobody wants to show up and feel like they're living in the past, right? We looked at the topics, speakers, and overall vibe to see if they were in tune with the latest trends and what's really popping off in the industry.

But that's not all.

We also wanted to make sure these events were worth the time and money. That's why we dug into attendee reviews and feedback to get the inside scoop on the quality of the content, networking opportunities, and overall experience.

Of course, we couldn't ignore the popularity factor either.

Events with a solid following tend to have that extra buzz and energy that can really take things to the next level. We looked at things like social media engagement, ticket sales, and past attendance records to gauge the hype.

Ultimately, our approach was all about finding the sweet spot – events that hit the mark in terms of relevance, value, and popularity.

We left no stone unturned, scouring everything from community platforms to local blogs and even word-of-mouth recommendations to uncover the hidden gems. This top 10 list is the real deal, curated with a keen eye and a deep understanding of what matters most to the Milwaukee tech community.

The Cream City Code is where it's at for all the techies out there in Milwaukee. This epic two-day conference brings together coders from all across the Midwest to explore the latest and greatest in the world of tech.

We're talking mind-blowing innovations, sharing knowledge, and discovering best practices that'll blow your mind.

So, what can you expect? Well, get ready for some serious learning about programming languages, web development, databases, and even the future of tech itself.

But it's not just about coding – they've got sessions on personal productivity, design, user experience, and even team leadership and collaboration. It's like a one-stop shop for leveling up your skills and career.

But the best part? The networking game is strong at Cream City Code.

You'll get to connect with other techies, potential employers, and people who just get it, you know? Plus, they've got a massive expo hall where all the big tech companies show off their latest and greatest.

It's the perfect chance to see what's out there and maybe even land your dream gig. And if you're lucky enough to be a selected speaker, you might even score some sweet perks like free entry, travel expenses, and a fancy speaker dinner.

Talk about a win-win!

Let me tell you about this epic Milwaukee Tech Bash that's going down.

It's like the ultimate party for all the tech geeks and innovators in the city! This bash has been around for a while, but it just keeps getting better every year.

In the past, they've had some seriously cool stuff happening.

Imagine listening to tech legends dropping knowledge bombs on stage. Or getting your hands dirty with hands-on workshops where you can level up your skills. Local startups and big players show off their cutting-edge tech.

It's like a playground for techies!

But this year, they're kicking it up a notch. First off, they've got a whole track dedicated to the latest and greatest tech like AI, machine learning, and blockchain.

You know, the stuff that'll shape the future. Plus, they're hooking us up with career workshops to help us land that dream job in the tech world.

But the real highlight? It's all about making connections.

You'll be rubbing shoulders with like-minded folks who live and breathe tech. Who knows, you might just meet your future co-founder or land a sick internship opportunity.

The Milwaukee Tech Bash is where it's at.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event is a must-attend. It's the perfect chance to stay ahead of the game and immerse yourself in the city's thriving tech community.

The MKE Tech Hub Coalition's Annual Meeting is where the cool kids of Milwaukee's tech scene come together to make some serious moves.

It's the place to be if you're all about pushing the boundaries of innovation and shaping the future of the city's tech ecosystem.

Last year's event was a total blast, and the 2024 lineup promises to be even more lit with discussions and initiatives that'll amp up the region's tech game.

One of the coalition's major goals is the "Talent Development Initiative," a program that's all about building a workforce that's stacked with the latest skills.

They're teaming up with local universities and coding bootcamps to bridge the gap between academia and the real-world, setting up mentorship programs for the up-and-comers, and championing diversity and inclusion in the industry.

It's a surefire way to nurture the next generation of tech talent and keep Milwaukee's innovation engine running hot.

But that's not all – the coalition's "Startup Accelerator Program" is a game-changer for aspiring entrepreneurs.

They're hooking them up with resources, funding opportunities, and mentorship to help their tech startups take off. And the results speak for themselves:

• Over 115 new tech companies have popped up in Milwaukee since 2018.
• 3,700+ jobs have been created in the sector between 2020 and 2022.
• Local startups raked in a staggering $210 million in funding last year alone.

As Diane Byrne, the coalition's Executive Director, put it,

"Our collective efforts are poised to cement Milwaukee's reputation as a thriving tech hub, fostering innovation, attracting top talent, and driving economic growth for years to come."

The MKE tech scene is on fire, and this annual meeting is where you'll want to be to catch all the action.

The Forward Tech Festival is the biggest deal in Milwaukee's tech scene, hands down. It's a massive five-day extravaganza that brings together all the coolest innovators, entrepreneurs, and tech geeks from around the region.

This year's edition, taking place from August 19th to 23rd, is shaping up to be an absolute blast, with over 40 different events and a whopping 5,000+ attendees expected to join in on the action.

Get ready to dive headfirst into a world of cutting-edge tech, mind-blowing innovations, and endless networking opportunities.

From keynote speeches to panel discussions, workshops, and even hackathons, there's something for everyone. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet in the tech game, this festival is where you'll find your tribe.

One of the highlights is definitely the Startup Pitch Competition, where ambitious entrepreneurs get to pitch their game-changing ideas to a panel of industry bigwigs like Matthew Taylor. Who knows? You might just witness the birth of the next groundbreaking tech unicorn right before your eyes!

And let's not forget about the Tech Expo, showcasing the latest and greatest innovations from top companies, startups, and research institutions.

Prepare to have your mind blown by the coolest gadgets, software, and tech solutions that are shaping the future as we speak.

The Forward Tech Festival isn't just about the events and activities – it's a celebration of Milwaukee's thriving tech ecosystem.

It's a chance for tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs like Barbara Brown, and industry leaders to come together, exchange ideas, and forge connections that could lead to the next big thing.

So mark your calendars, because this is one event you won't want to miss!

The Women in Technology Wisconsin Meetup is all about creating a rad space for ladies and non-binary peeps to thrive in tech.

It's like a massive squad that hosts epic events to help you network, learn new skills, and push the industry towards more inclusivity and gender equality.

Their 2024 lineup is straight fire! You've got quarterly panel discussions where industry bosses drop knowledge bombs on slaying challenges and climbing that career ladder.

Then there are the Code&Connect workshops – hands-on sessions to level up your coding game and stay ahead of the curve with emerging tech.

But the real MVP is the mentorship circles.

Imagine having an experienced pro in your corner, guiding you through the ups and downs of the tech world. It's like having a real-life cheat code for your career.

Now, mark your calendars for the Women in Tech Summit on September 14-15, 2024.

This two-day extravaganza is all about celebrating and amplifying the voices of women in tech. Susan Rodriguez, the co-founder of WIT Wisconsin, put it best: "Empowering women in tech isn't just about breaking down barriers; it's about unleashing the full potential of innovation and driving transformative change."

With sessions on professional development, leadership, and tech entrepreneurship, this summit is a game-changer.

It's like an epic level-up for your career and a chance to connect with some seriously talented folks. So, whether you're a coding queen, a startup hustler, or just curious about the tech scene, join the WIT Wisconsin squad and get ready to slay.

Alright, let's talk about the Wisconsin IT Symposium. This is one event you definitely don't want to miss if you're into tech and living in the Midwest.

It's like a giant playground for us nerds, bringing together the coolest minds and companies from all over the region. The 2024 edition is shaping up to be epic, with keynotes from industry legends like Jeremy Graves, Jack Lucci, and Vered Kogan.

They'll be dropping knowledge bombs on everything from AI and analytics to the future of work.

This symposium is all about networking and learning from the best in the biz.

You'll have the chance to attend breakout sessions, panel discussions, and workshops led by experts in fields like cybersecurity, cloud computing, and emerging tech.

It's the perfect opportunity to level up your skills and stay ahead of the curve. And let's not forget about the massive exhibit hall, where you can check out the latest and greatest tech solutions from hundreds of companies.

It's like a candy store for tech enthusiasts!

But the real magic happens when you connect with other attendees. This event draws over 2,500 IT professionals from across the Midwest, so you'll have plenty of opportunities to network, share ideas, and maybe even find your next gig.

The possibilities are endless!

If you're serious about your career in tech, the Wisconsin IT Symposium is a must-attend event. It's a day packed with inspiration, education, and connections that could change the game for you.

So mark your calendars, grab your notebooks, and get ready to geek out with some of the brightest minds in the industry.

Get ready to code for a cause at Code across Milwaukee, the annual civic hackathon that brings together tech enthusiasts, developers, designers, and community members to collaborate on innovative projects for improving the city.

With a focus on civic engagement and open data, this event is the perfect platform for enhancing your skills and making a real impact.

The hackathon format is intense – you'll form teams and grind for 48 hours straight to conceptualize, design, and develop tech-driven solutions for real-world challenges faced by Milwaukee.

According to the 2024 event overview, Code across Milwaukee will feature three distinct tracks:

1. Open Data Challenge: Leverage open data sets to create apps that enhance transparency, accessibility, and citizen engagement.
2. Civic Accessibility Challenge: Develop solutions that improve accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
3. Youth Innovation Track: Young innovators can explore technology and develop skills through mentorship and hands-on projects.

Throughout the event, you'll have access to a wealth of resources, including workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities with industry pros and subject matter experts.

As highlighted in the promotional material, Code across Milwaukee offers a "unique opportunity to collaborate, learn, and make a tangible impact on the community."

Past participants rave about the event's "inclusive and supportive environment" that fosters skill development and knowledge sharing.

Mary Thompson shared her experience:

"Code across Milwaukee was a game-changer for me. Not only did I learn valuable coding skills, but I also had the chance to work alongside incredibly talented individuals, all while contributing to projects that directly benefit our city."

The Official Cybersecurity Summit in Milwaukee on May 2, 2024, is going to be excellent! It's taking place at the swanky Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, and you won't want to miss this cyber showdown.

They've got some major players lined up to drop knowledge bombs, like:

• Linda Rodriguez , Chief Security Strategist at Tenable, Inc., sharing insights on next-level security strategies.
• Daniel Garcia , Enterprise Security Architect from SentinelOne, breaking down the latest cyber threats and defenses.
• Charles Lopez , Cybersecurity Advisor from CISA, closing out the event with a keynote that'll be informative.

But it's not just about the big names.

You'll get to level up your cyber game with sessions on everything from cloud security to data protection. And don't overlook the networking opportunities – this is your chance to connect with other professionals who are as passionate about cybersecurity as you are.

They're even offering continuing education credits, so you can apply those newfound skills on your resume.

This summit is a must-attend for anyone trying to stay ahead of the cyber curve.

Check this out, the Milwaukee Tech Showcase is where all the tech gurus come together to talk about the latest and greatest.

According to their website, it's "a technology leadership conference where IT leaders discuss the year in review, sharing strategies, successes, failures, and lessons learned." Sounds like the perfect place to get the inside scoop on what's happening in the world of tech.

They've got some seriously cool stuff planned for 2024.

Get ready to dive into the cutting edge of AI, IoT, VR, and AR. You'll get to see live demos and interact with mind-blowing innovations that'll make you feel like you're living in the future.

It's the ultimate playground for tech enthusiasts and anyone who wants to stay ahead of the game.

And let's not forget about the networking opportunities.

With thousands of attendees from all over, you'll have the chance to connect with like-minded people, exchange ideas, and maybe even find your next big gig or business partner.

It's a melting pot of creativity and innovation, and you definitely don't want to miss out on the action.

Let's talk about DevOpsDays Milwaukee, one of the coolest tech events happening in our city next year. This two-day conference, scheduled for September 25th-26th, 2024, is seriously going to be lit for anyone into DevOps and IT improvement.

The lineup they've put together is insane, covering all the latest trends and best practices in the DevOps world.

Get ready to dive deep into topics like Continuous Integration and Deployment (CI/CD), which is all about streamlining your software development process.

You'll also learn about leveraging cloud computing and infrastructure as code, essential skills for managing your infrastructure programmatically.

And if you're into ensuring system reliability and performance, the sessions on Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) are a must-attend.

But that's not all! DevOpsDays Milwaukee is also bringing the heat on DevSecOps and secure coding practices, helping you integrate security measures throughout your dev lifecycle.

With sessions like "BBQ and DevOps Milwaukee", you'll get a taste of real-world applications while enjoying some tasty grub.

Beyond the educational tracks, DevOpsDays Milwaukee is all about building a strong community.

You'll have plenty of chances to network, share knowledge, and make connections within Milwaukee's DevOps scene. And don't forget, this event embraces the spirit of open source and community involvement, so you can contribute to ongoing projects, participate in hackathons, and get creative in open spaces.

It's the ultimate opportunity to level up your DevOps game while having a blast with like-minded folks. Check out the official website for more details and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of DevOps!