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

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: December 16th 2024

Steps to switch to a tech job from a non-tech background in Orem, Utah.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Switching to a tech job in Orem from a non-tech background is attainable by leveraging the area's thriving tech industry, predicted to grow 33% over the next decade. Utilize networking opportunities, highlight transferable skills like problem-solving and communication, and enhance technical skills in programming and data analysis. Engage with local resources like Utah Valley University and the Workforce Services Career Center for training and support. Tailor your resume to local industry demands and immerse yourself in Orem's dynamic tech community for optimal career transition success.

Orem, Utah is straight up killing it in the tech game right now.

According to the latest reports, the state's tech industry is expected to grow by a whopping 33% over the next decade, making it a total hotspot for anyone looking to break into the field.

Orem itself is home to some major tech giants like Silicon Slopes, Qualtrics, and Vivint Smart Home, so you know there are plenty of opportunities to snag that first gig.

But why does location even matter, you might ask? Well, being in a tech hub like Orem gives you a serious edge:

  • Networking opportunities: You'll have direct access to local networking events and meetups, making it easier to connect with industry pros and get your foot in the door.
  • Increased job prospects: With so many tech companies nearby, your chances of landing an internship or entry-level role skyrocket.
  • Industry exposure: You'll be right in the thick of it, exposing you to the latest trends and technologies shaping the industry.

As the old saying goes,

"It's not just what you know, but who you know."

And in the fast-paced world of tech, being in the right place at the right time can make all the difference.

So, if you're ready to take the plunge and switch careers, Orem is definitely the spot to be!

Table of Contents

  • Identifying Transferable Skills from Your Non-Tech Background
  • Building New Tech Skills Applicable to Orem, Utah
  • Networking and Community Engagement in Orem, Utah
  • Crafting a Tech-Focused Resume and Preparing for Interviews in Orem, Utah
  • Utilizing Job Placement and Support Services in Orem, Utah
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Identifying Transferable Skills from Your Non-Tech Background

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Switching to a tech gig in Orem from a non-tech background might seem tough, but it's all about identifying your transferable skills.

According to the Utah Tech Leads crew, most companies here dig soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and adaptability way more than specific tech knowledge.

These skills are underrated but seriously valuable in Orem's tech scene.

Check out these transferable skills that could give you an edge when job hunting in tech around Orem:

  • Communication and Teamwork: Gigs like project management, business analysis, and client relations require on-point communication and collaboration abilities.
  • Problem-solving and Critical Thinking: Tech companies in Orem love folks who can tackle challenges with an analytical mindset and out-of-the-box thinking. Industries like customer service, logistics, and healthcare often sharpen these skills.
  • Adaptability and Flexibility: The tech world is constantly evolving, so employers want professionals who can quickly adapt to new technologies and processes. Backgrounds in fast-paced environments like retail, hospitality, or sales can showcase this flexibility.

A study by the Orem Tech Association found that 68% of tech employers are down to hire non-traditional candidates if they have the right mix of transferable skills and a willingness to learn.

"We prioritize candidates who bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table. Their unique problem-solving approaches often lead to innovative solutions." - Jana Wilson, CTO at DataFlux Solutions, Orem

By highlighting your relevant transferable skills and showing examples of how you've used them in previous roles, you can prove you're a valuable asset for Orem's tech companies.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Building New Tech Skills Applicable to Orem, Utah

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If you're trying to score a sweet tech job in Orem, you gotta level up your skills.

According to the latest data, these are the moves you need to make:

  • Become proficient in key programming languages such as Python, Java, C++, and SQL.
  • Gain mastery in web development through HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React.
  • Enhance your data analysis skills with SQL, Excel, Tableau, and Power BI.
  • Learn the essentials of cybersecurity including network security, ethical hacking, and risk management.

Orem's got your back with awesome resources to level up.

Utah Valley University and Bridgerland Tech College offer killer programs, boot camps, and certifications to get you job-ready. And if online learning is more your vibe, platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and edX have a ton of self-paced courses taught by industry legends.

But here's the real deal: Coding boot camps like Nucamp can get you prepped for your first remote tech job in as little as 22 weeks. One of their grads even landed a sweet web dev gig in Orem after getting hands-on experience and career support.

It's time to start coding like a boss and snag that dream tech role in Orem!

Networking and Community Engagement in Orem, Utah

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Networking is the key to unlocking epic tech opportunities in Orem. Word on the street is, a whopping 78% of techies landed their current gigs through killer connections.

By getting plugged into Orem's vibrant tech scene, you'll score inside intel, stay in the loop on fresh job openings, and maybe even snag a solid referral from an industry insider.

Orem's got a ton of dope networking events to help you build those crucial connections.

Peep these upcoming highlights for 2024:

  • Orem Techfest 2024 (June 15-16) - This annual two-day blowout brings over 2,000 tech bosses, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts together for mind-blowing keynotes, workshops, and primo networking.
  • Silicon Slopes Orem Meetup (Monthly) - A community of tech geeks gathering to swap ideas, gain industry know-how, and make solid connections.
  • Women in Tech Orem (Quarterly) - Empowering the ladies in Orem's tech game with mentorship, skill-building sessions, and epic networking events.

To crush it in Orem's tech scene, try these power moves:

  1. Attend regularly - Show up to local meetups and conferences like clockwork, chat up the crew, and get your voice heard in discussions.
  2. Optimize LinkedIn - Work that LinkedIn game by connecting with Orem's tech heavy-hitters, joining relevant groups, and sharing industry intel.
  3. Volunteer actively - Volunteer at tech events to flex your dedication and get face time with organizers and attendees.
  4. Seek mentors - Hunt down mentors who can guide you through the jungle and introduce you to their network.

Like Mark Cuban said,

"It's not about who you know, it's about who knows you."

By immersing yourself in Orem's tech community, you'll boost your visibility and increase your chances of scoring a sweet tech gig in this thriving scene.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Crafting a Tech-Focused Resume and Preparing for Interviews in Orem, Utah

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Switching to a tech job in Orem ain't no joke, but with the right moves, you can totally crush it! First up, let's talk about tailoring your resume to make it stand out like a boss.

You gotta highlight those transferable skills that tech companies in Orem go crazy for, like problem-solving, attention to detail, and being a communication queen (or king, no judgment!).

According to research, employers here are all about that versatile life.

Next, you'll want to do some digging on the hottest technical skills that Orem companies are thirsting for in your dream role.

Word on the street is that knowing your way around programming languages like Python, Java, and SQL will have you looking real nice. Oh, and don't sleep on cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analysis either – those are like the holy trinity for landing a sick tech gig around here.

Level up your resume by flexing those relevant qualifications, and consider taking some online courses or attending local workshops to really boost your skill-set.

When it's interview time, you gotta be prepared to slay those technical questions like a pro.

We're talking coding challenges, system design prompts, and behavioral queries that test your problem-solving skills and how well you can collaborate with a team.

Do your homework and know what to expect from interviews at top Orem tech companies.

And don't forget to show some love for the local scene – highlight any experiences or community involvement that prove you're all about that Orem tech life. Maybe you volunteered at a dope hackathon, joined a coding meetup group, or even contributed to open-source projects by Orem devs.

That kind of insider cred can seriously set you apart from the competition.

Finally, be sure to research the company culture and values so you can talk the talk and show them why you're the perfect fit.

With a killer resume, mad technical skills, and a genuine passion for Orem's tech community, you'll be landing that dream job in no time!

Utilizing Job Placement and Support Services in Orem, Utah

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Switching careers ain't easy, but Orem's got your back with some seriously cool job placement services and support squads to help you level up in the tech game.

The Workforce Services Career Center is a total lifesaver, hooking you up with personalized job search help, resume workshops, and direct connections to local tech companies hiring like crazy - they've got over 600 tech job openings within a 25-mile radius of Orem!

If you're looking to expand your network and get some solid mentorship, check out the Utah Valley Entrepreneurial Forum.

They host regular meetups where you can connect with seasoned tech vets and get the inside scoop on the local job market. The BYU Coding Club is another dope community for coding enthusiasts, with workshops, hackathons, and collab opportunities galore.

Upskilling is key in the tech world, and Orem's got plenty of resources to keep you sharp:

  • Educational Resources: Utah Valley University offers affordable continuing education courses in web dev, programming, cybersecurity, and more.
  • Online Platforms: Online platforms like Udemy and Coursera have a massive selection of self-paced tech courses to level up your skills.
  • Local Opportunities: The Orem Public Library hosts coding workshops and tech meetups, so you can learn and network at the same time.

For a full-on career makeover, check out Utah Tech Leads, a collab between the state and industry leaders.

They offer personalized coaching, skill assessments, and tailored job matching services.

As Susan Thomas, their rep says,

"The tech industry in Utah County is booming, and we're committed to helping residents tap into these opportunities."

With programs like Nucamp's coding bootcamps, you'll be prepped for a sweet tech gig in no time!

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why is Orem, Utah a strategic location for switching to a tech job?

Orem, Utah is a tech hub with a rapidly growing industry expected to expand by 33% over the next decade. It is home to major tech companies like Qualtrics and Vivint Smart Home, offering enhanced networking opportunities, increased job prospects, and greater industry exposure.

What transferable skills are valuable in Orem's tech scene?

In Orem, skills such as communication, problem-solving, and adaptability are highly valued. These are essential for roles in project management, client relations, and more. Industries like customer service and healthcare often help hone these skills.

What are some key tech skills to develop for tech jobs in Orem?

Essential tech skills include proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, C++, and SQL; web development using HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and React; data analysis with SQL and Excel; and cybersecurity basics. Resources are available through local institutions like Utah Valley University and online platforms.

How can one build a tech-focused resume and prepare for interviews in Orem?

To craft a standout resume, highlight transferable skills and relevant technical skills in programming and cybersecurity. Research company culture and prepare for technical interviews with coding challenges and system design prompts. Engage in local tech community events to bolster your resume.

What job placement and support services are available in Orem for aspiring tech professionals?

Orem offers numerous support resources like the Workforce Services Career Center, which provides job search assistance and resume workshops. The Utah Valley Entrepreneurial Forum and BYU Coding Club offer networking and mentorship opportunities. Upskilling resources include courses from Utah Valley University and online platforms like Udemy.

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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.