How to Switch from a Non-Tech Background to a Tech Job in New Orleans

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 26th 2024

Guide to switching from non-tech to tech career in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Switching to a tech job in New Orleans is attainable even with a non-tech background. The city's tech sector, generating $3 billion annually, offers opportunities in software engineering, data analysis, and cybersecurity. Utilize resources like Louisiana Tech Park and network through Tech Fest. Enhance skills through bootcamps or online courses while highlighting transferable skills such as communication and problem-solving.

The tech scene in NOLA is on fire! Even if you're fresh out of college with no tech background, there are so many chances to get into the industry. Sectors like mobile app development and software engineering are booming, with major companies and hot startups all over the city.

But it's not just coding - fields like healthcare, energy, and hospitality are embracing new tech too, creating openings for data analysts, cybersecurity pros, UX designers, and more.

Places like the Louisiana Tech Park are fueling innovation, while The Idea Village helps launch groundbreaking startups. And with sweet programs at places like Tulane, you can level up your skills and get job-ready in no time.

The Big Easy's creative spirit combined with smart investments make it the place to be for anyone wanting to break into tech!

Table of Contents

  • Identifying Transferable Skills from Non-Tech to Tech
  • Education and Training Resources in New Orleans
  • Networking and Community Support in New Orleans
  • Navigating the Job Search in New Orleans' Tech Industry
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Identifying Transferable Skills from Non-Tech to Tech

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Making a career switch to tech can seem like a big move, but you'd be surprised how your current skills fit right in.

Companies are searching for people with transferable abilities like communication, problem-solving, and project management.

Even if your background isn't technical, these versatile talents make you an attractive candidate. In New Orleans, the tech scene is booming, and employers want diverse perspectives.

Pinpoint your transferable skills from past gigs, whether you were managing events, crunching numbers, or providing top-notch customer service.

With a knack for learning and adapting, you've got what it takes to thrive in a coding, UX, or IT role. You'd be surprised how your current skills fit right in.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Education and Training Resources in New Orleans

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New Orleans is basically becoming a total hotspot for anyone tryna break into tech! Operation Spark is this sick non-profit coding bootcamp that's all about making tech careers accessible for everyone.

They've got programs for high schoolers and adults, teaching you the skills to score some seriously lucrative jobs without even needing a college degree.

LSU is offering these intense online tech bootcamps too, covering everything from coding and cybersecurity to data analytics and AI. You can get industry-ready in as little as 10 weeks, all powered by the epic Fullstack Academy curriculum.

Over 1,500 top companies are straight-up desperate to hire their grads!

If you're more of a self-study kinda person, there are tons of online learning platforms out there like Coursera and Udemy, offering courses taught by legit experts from prestigious universities.

You can seriously level up your tech game at your own pace, all from the comfort of your couch.

The bottom line is, New Orleans has your back when it comes to scoring a sweet tech gig.

With all these bootcamps, degree programs, and online courses, you can keep upgrading your skills and stay ahead of the game in this ever-changing industry. The key to success is never stopping that grind!

Networking and Community Support in New Orleans

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New Orleans is becoming a serious tech powerhouse with over 300 companies and 20,000 professionals in the sector. The local tech community offers incredible networking opportunities for career changers, with companies like Accruent, DXC Technology, and High Voltage Software choosing to set up shop here.

What makes networking in NOLA special is how the city combines professional growth with its unique culture - it's not just about trading business cards, it's about building real connections.

The New Orleans Entrepreneur Week (NOEW) is a prime example, now in its 12th year as the Gulf Coast's leading tech networking event, complete with live music and interactive sessions.

The city's tech scene generates $3 billion in annual revenue, creating plenty of opportunities for newcomers to break in.

Organizations like Idea Village and the New Orleans BioInnovation Center actively support this growth, offering mentorship and resources to help you transition into tech.

The momentum is real - 68% of local startups are planning to hire in the next year, and with tax incentives like a 25% rebate on software development payroll costs, the ecosystem keeps expanding.

Whether you're interested in software engineering, digital marketing, or game development, there's a community here ready to welcome you.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

Navigating the Job Search in New Orleans' Tech Industry

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A remote tech job from New Orleans is totally possible if you've got the right skills. Start by learning the essential tech skills that New Orleans employers are seeking in 2024, like iOS and Android app development.

With mobile usage on the rise, these skills are in high demand.

Once you've got the technical know-how, it's all about showcasing your abilities.

Craft a killer resume highlighting your achievements and quantify your impact wherever you can. Employers eat that up. And don't sleep on networking – leveraging alumni networks from schools like Tulane can be a game-changer.

Attend local tech events, connect with professionals online, and find yourself a mentor to guide you through the process.

When it comes to interviews, preparation is key.

Research common questions for the specific role and company you're targeting. Be ready to discuss relevant tech trends and methodologies, and have examples of how you've tackled complex technical issues.

And don't forget to show off your communication skills – they're just as important as the technical side of things. With the right strategy and a bit of hustle, you'll be landing that dream tech job in New Orleans before you know it!

Frequently Asked Questions

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How can I transition from a non-tech background to a tech job in New Orleans?

You can transition by leveraging your transferable skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and project management. New Orleans offers a thriving tech scene with diverse opportunities, and employers value these non-technical skills alongside technical ones.

What educational resources are available for tech career changers in New Orleans?

New Orleans provides various educational resources, including coding bootcamps like Nucamp and Fullstack Academy, which offer programs in coding, cybersecurity, and more. Online platforms like Coursera and Udemy are also available for self-study, making tech careers accessible without traditional degrees.

How important is networking in New Orleans' tech industry?

Networking is crucial in New Orleans' tech industry, which features over 300 companies and numerous professionals. Events and organizations like Idea Village offer networking opportunities that combine professional growth with the unique local culture, helping build genuine connections.

What skills should I focus on to secure a tech job in New Orleans?

Focus on developing skills in high demand, such as iOS and Android app development, as mobile usage rises. Additionally, enhancing your technical proficiency with coding skills and showcasing achievements on your resume will aid in securing a position.

What strategies can help in the job search for New Orleans' tech sector?

Successful job searching in New Orleans' tech sector involves crafting a strong resume, engaging in networking, and preparing for interviews by researching industry trends and showcasing both technical and communication skills. Attending local tech events and finding mentorships can also be beneficial.

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Chevas Balloun

Director of Marketing & Brand

Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.