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

Minneapolis is making some serious waves in the tech game, with heavy hitters like Best Buy, Target, UnitedHealth Group, and 3M calling this city home.

The tech scene here has been growing at a crazy pace, with tech jobs increasing by 8.7% from 2015 to 2020, according to CompTIA's Cyberstates report. Some startups you should definitely keep an eye on in 2024 are Bright Health, Branch, and Inhabitr.

And the job market is looking insane too, with software developer roles expected to grow by 10.8% and computer systems analyst positions set to increase by 9.1% by 2028, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Minneapolis' diverse tech landscape and the talent pipeline from schools like the University of Minnesota make it a prime destination for anyone looking to level up their tech career.

As one industry expert put it,

"The Minneapolis tech scene is vibrant, innovative, and constantly evolving, offering ample opportunities for growth and career advancement."

And coding bootcamps in Minneapolis can help you kickstart your journey into the world of tech, like the ones offered by Nucamp Coding Bootcamp.

Switching to a tech job in Minneapolis isn't easy if you're coming from a non-tech background, but it all starts with taking an honest look at your current skills.

You gotta identify what you're already good at and where you need to level up. It's crucial because the tech scene in the Twin Cities is competitive - according to a report, 92% of Minneapolis tech employers struggle to find qualified candidates for roles like software development, cybersecurity, and data analytics.

That's where assessing your skills comes in.

Just because you don't have a tech background doesn't mean you're starting from scratch. Soft skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and being able to adapt are highly valued in the tech world, according to a survey of local companies by Minneapolis Workforce Development.

To get a clear picture of your strengths and weaknesses, you can tap into resources like:

• SkillCycle: A Minneapolis nonprofit that offers personalized skills assessments and career coaching for tech job seekers like you.
• Minneapolis Community and Technical College: They have skills assessments and advisors to help you find the right tech path.
• Minnesota Career Information System: An online tool with self-assessment modules that match your abilities to suitable tech roles.

Using these local resources is key to identifying your transferable skills, the areas you need to work on, and creating a solid plan to upgrade your skillset for the tech career you want in Minneapolis.

Minneapolis is the place to be if you want to switch into the tech scene. The city's got a ton of awesome options for getting the skills you need, whether you're looking to go all-in with a coding bootcamp or just want to take some online courses on the side.

If you're ready to dive headfirst into the tech world, bootcamps like Nucamp and Prime Digital Academy offer intense training programs to get you job-ready in no time.

Nucamp covers full-stack web dev, data analytics, and more, while Prime focuses on software engineering skills.

For something more low-key, check out online platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Pluralsight – they've got Minneapolis-based instructors teaching everything from basic coding to advanced cybersecurity.

Or join local meetup groups like Twin Cities Code Camp and Minneapolis Python User Group to learn alongside other tech enthusiasts.

If you prefer the traditional college route, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, University of Minnesota, and Metropolitan State University all have solid tech-focused programs.

Just keep in mind that the job market for tech professionals is super competitive right now, so hands-on training and continuous skill development are crucial to standing out, according to experts like Susan Davis from GWS.

Switching to a tech job in Minneapolis? Building connections is key! According to this article, networking can unlock new gigs and help you level up your skills.

The IT industry is all about who you know, so get out there and start meeting people! Minneapolis has a thriving tech scene with plenty of events to attend.

Check out the following events and groups to maximize your networking opportunities:

• Twin Cities Coding Meetup: Offers coding sessions where you can practice and enhance your skills while networking.
• Minneapolis TechFest and MinneWebCon: Attend these conferences for networking opportunities and gaining insights into the tech industry.
• Professional Groups: Join the Twin Cities .NET User Group, Minneapolis Analytics Collective, or SHE Codefellers for even more chances to connect with like-minded techies.

Networking is the ultimate cheat code for landing your dream tech role in Minneapolis – so start building those relationships and watch your career soar!

If you're trying to switch to a tech job in Minneapolis, getting some real-world experience is key. One solid move is to volunteer with local tech projects or nonprofits.

Places like Geekade and Twin Cities Community Voice Mail offer coding and web dev volunteer roles, so you can put your skills to use while doing good.

Internships and entry-level gigs are also a great way to get your hands dirty.

Big tech companies like Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth Group, which are headquartered right here in Minneapolis, often have internship programs for aspiring techies like us.

And don't sleep on smaller local startups like Branch Messenger and LeadPages – they're always on the lookout for fresh talent and junior devs.

If you're more of a freelancer type, Minneapolis has a poppin' freelance tech community.

Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr connect you with clients who need services like web dev, mobile app dev, and software engineering. Local freelance networks like Minneapolis Freelance Network and MinneWebCon can also hook you up with valuable resources and job opportunities.

Here's the rundown on getting that experience in Minneapolis' tech scene:

• Tech Volunteering: Geekade, Twin Cities Community Voice Mail, Free Geek Twin Cities
• Major Companies with Internships: Target, Best Buy, UnitedHealth Group, U.S. Bank, 3M
• Freelance Platforms: Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, Toptal, Guru
• Local Freelance Networks: Minneapolis Freelance Network, MinneWebCon

As Benjamin Franklin said, "Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn." By getting involved in real tech projects and experiences, you'll not only level up your skills but also build a professional network and portfolio, setting you up for success in Minneapolis' booming tech scene.

Alright, let me break it down for you on how to crush those tech interviews in the Twin Cities. This recruiter from Minneapolis shares the top questions you'll likely face, like why you're interested in tech, your proudest accomplishment, and what kind of role you see yourself in a few years down the line.

Solid prep for these is key.

But don't just study up on the technical side. This guide from the state says employers want to know your motivation, if you'll fit the company culture, and how much they'll need to pay you.

Do your homework on the company and role so you can show why you're the perfect fit.

Now for some real talk - Robert Half shared these must-ask questions that tech companies use to test your communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and passion for the field.

Be ready to explain complex tech concepts simply, discuss personal projects you've worked on, and share how you handle tight deadlines or remote work.

Don't stress though, there are plenty of local resources to help you prep.

The Twin Cities Media Alliance and PRIME Ability Mentoring offer mock interviews and coaching tailored for Minneapolis. And check out Tech Cities - they host networking events where you can connect with locals in the industry and get the inside scoop on what companies are looking for.

Alright, so you're trying to break into the tech scene in Minneapolis? That's awesome, and this city has got your back with some killer resources. First up, check out MSP TechHire - they'll hook you up with training for sick tech jobs like software development, network administration, and computer support.

Once you're certified, they'll even help with job placement, paid internships, and networking opportunities.

Minneapolis has some pretty sweet orgs that'll give you the 411 on landing that dream tech gig.

Career Services at Minneapolis College is a goldmine - they'll help you with everything from resume building to interview prep.

And don't sleep on Hennepin County Employment Services either. They've got job fairs, training resources, and all sorts of programs to get you job-ready.

Minneapolis is home to some rad communities like Twin Cities Diversity in Tech, MinneWebCon, and the Minneapolis Analytics Meetup.

Joining these groups will surround you with industry pros who can share their wisdom and maybe even put in a good word for you. Trust me, having that support system is clutch when you're trying to level up your career.