Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Phoenix
Last Updated: December 26th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Phoenix is a tech hotspot with opportunities to connect and innovate at must-attend events like Phoenix DevCon, PHX Startup Week, and Desert Blockchain Monthly. Ranked as a top tech city by CompTIA, Phoenix offers access to talent and networking to propel your career. Whether you're into blockchain, AI, or entrepreneurship, these conferences deliver impactful experiences and insider knowledge. Enjoy keynotes, workshops, and networking with potential collaborators or employers and be part of the dynamic tech community driving change in Phoenix.
Phoenix is seriously blowing up as a prime tech hotspot, with startups popping up left and right and major players like Intel and TSMC moving in.
CompTIA ranked Phoenix as the 10th best city for tech job growth in 2024, thanks to its booming job market, chill living costs, and access to top talent from ASU. But the real magic happens at the meetups and conferences, where you can connect with industry pros, stay ahead of the curve on the latest tech trends, and maybe even score your next gig or business partner.
The networking game at these events is crucial for leveling up your career.
Table of Contents
- Phoenix DevCon
- PHX Startup Week
- Desert Blockchain Monthly
- TechPHX Conference
- Phoenix Data Conference
- IoT DevFest
- Brightcove PLAY Meetup
- Women in Tech - Phoenix
- Phoenix Mobile & Emerging Tech Fest
- Methodology for Selecting Events
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Stay ahead of the curve with insights on Phoenix's tech industry growth and emerging trends.
Phoenix DevCon
(Up)Alright, so check this out - Devcon is like the ultimate Ethereum conference, and it's going down in Bangkok this year from November 12-15! It's a 4-day extravaganza where you can connect with developers, thinkers, and straight-up visionaries from all corners of the globe.
They've got talks and workshops covering everything from protocol updates and Layer 2 solutions to UX design and the mind-bending world of ZKPs. But it's not just about the tech - Devcon is a melting pot of ideas, cultures, and perspectives, all united in the mission of decentralizing the internet and empowering communities worldwide.
The real magic happens when you immerse yourself in the Devcon vibe.
Imagine rubbing shoulders with legends like Charles Martin, diving into thought-provoking discussions on cryptoeconomics, or even catching a glimpse of how DeFi is changing lives in places like Venezuela.
It's an experience that'll leave you buzzing with inspiration and ready to reshape the digital landscape. And let's not forget the networking opportunities - you never know who you might meet or what groundbreaking collab could sprout from a casual hallway chat.
PHX Startup Week
(Up)PHX Startup Week is this massive annual event that has become the place to be for anyone in Phoenix's startup and entrepreneurial scene. Organized by the local community, this multi-day conference brings together aspiring business owners, experienced founders, investors, and industry experts to connect, learn, and empower one another.
The event is all about fostering entrepreneurship and helping innovative ideas come to life.
Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops, attendees get the inside scoop on building and scaling successful businesses. Past events have featured heavy-hitters like venture capitalist Bill Gurley from Benchmark Capital and Linda Gonzalez, the former CEO of Nextdoor.
One of the coolest things about PHX Startup Week is the chance to hear real-life success stories from local startups like Pyx Health, a healthcare tech company, and Fabric, a construction tech platform that's growing like crazy.
These companies share their journeys, challenges, and strategies, which is super inspiring for anyone looking to start their own venture and showcases the entrepreneurial spirit in Phoenix.
PHX Startup Week isn't just about learning – it's also a prime networking opportunity.
Attendees can connect with like-minded individuals, potential investors, and influential industry leaders, opening doors for valuable connections and collaborations.
As one attendee put it,
"PHX Startup Week is a melting pot of ideas, where innovation thrives, and dreams find their footing."
The event's impact extends far beyond its duration, with many startups crediting PHX Startup Week as a game-changer for their growth and success.
According to a recent study, startups that participated in PHX Startup Week experienced a 25% higher rate of funding in the following year compared to non-participants.
That statistic alone shows how significant this event is for propelling Phoenix's startup ecosystem to new heights.
Desert Blockchain Monthly
(Up)The Desert Blockchain Monthly meetup in Phoenix is seriously the place to be if you're into blockchain tech and development.
This meetup, hosted by the Arizona Blockchain Association, dives deep into distributed ledgers, decentralized apps (dApps), and how blockchain can be a total game-changer across various industries.
Every month, blockchain experts share their knowledge, covering topics like:
- Blockchain Basics: Getting familiar with core concepts, consensus mechanisms, and how these blockchain networks are built. Gain a foundation in blockchain technology.
- Smart Contract Creation: Learning to build self-executing contracts on platforms like Ethereum, enabling secure and transparent transactions without middlemen. Enhance your skills in creating secure contracts.
- Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Exploring how DeFi could disrupt traditional finance by decentralizing services through blockchain. Discover the potential of DeFi.
- Web3 and the Decentralized Web: Checking out the emerging decentralized web, where blockchain plays a key role in data ownership and privacy. Understand the implications of Web3.
But it's not just about the technical side of things.
The Desert Blockchain Monthly brings together developers, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts who are stoked to share their knowledge and collaborate.
We've had awesome speakers like James Brown, a renowned blockchain developer and author, and Lyn Ulbricht, the Executive Director of the "Free Ross" campaign, advocating for her son Ross Ulbricht, the creator of the Silk Road marketplace.
With a strong focus on community, this meetup is the perfect place to network and engage in thought-provoking discussions about the future of blockchain.
TechPHX Conference
(Up)The International JavaScript Conference San Diego is where you want to be for the latest and greatest in the world of JavaScript! This multi-day event, usually happening in May, brings together coders, developers, and tech enthusiasts from all around to explore the cutting-edge topics, workshops, and networking opportunities that'll take your JS skills to the next level.
The 2024 edition is shaping up to be an absolute blast, with over 50 sessions led by speakers from top tech companies and innovative startups.
Get ready to dive deep into mind-blowing topics like AI, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more futuristic tech that'll blow your mind! Some highlights you won't want to miss:
- AI/ML Workshop: Hands-on experience with AI and machine learning algorithms, showing you how they work in the real world.
- Cybersecurity Panel: Experts spilling the beans on the latest threats and how to protect your digital assets like a boss.
- DevOps and Cloud Computing Track: Master the art of DevOps and learn how to leverage cloud services for maximum scalability and efficiency.
But it's not just about the sessions! The 2024 ASPPH Annual Meeting for Academic Public Health is all about building connections and fostering a community of like-minded techies.
Networking events and lounges are the perfect spot to meet new people, exchange ideas, and maybe even land your dream job! The 2023 edition attracted over 2,500 attendees, proving that this event is the place to be for staying ahead of the game in the Phoenix tech scene.
As Linda Anderson, a local software engineer, puts it, "If you're serious about technology, the 2024 Annual Meeting is a can't-miss event."
Phoenix Data Conference
(Up)Get ready to dive deep into the world of data at Data Saturday #38 in Phoenix! This epic event on March 23, 2024, hosted by the Arizona Data Platform Users Group, is a must-attend for anyone who wants to level up their data game.
You'll find training sessions covering everything from data analytics and machine learning to SQL and business intelligence, both locally and in the cloud. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this event is gonna be lit!
The Phoenix Technology Summit 2024 on March 13 is where you'll want to be to connect with the region's top tech leaders and experts.
Get ready for insightful keynotes, panel discussions, and interactive sessions on the latest trends in cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, AI, machine learning, and more.
This is your chance to network, learn from the best, and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving tech world.
Mark your calendars for the Marketing Analytics Summit 2024 in Phoenix from June 4-7.
This epic conference is a playground for data geeks, with sessions on everything from marketing data science and generative AI tools to collaborative dashboard design and retail media analytics.
You'll get to rub elbows with industry legends like Patricia Harris and pick their brains on the latest strategies and best practices.
IoT DevFest
(Up)Tech-heads! Get hyped for the IoT DevFest in Phoenix, where the coolest cats in the Internet of Things game come together to learn, network, and straight-up geek out! This epic event, going down in October 2024, is a total must for developers, engineers, and anyone looking to unlock the crazy potential of IoT tech.
Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, IoT DevFest has got your back.
They've got beginner tracks to help you wrap your head around the basics, and advanced sessions where you can dive deep into the cutting-edge stuff like edge computing, AI-powered IoT, and industrial automation.
Plus, they'll hook you up with the latest scoop on emerging trends like 5G IoT, blockchain integration, and sustainable IoT solutions, straight from the mouths of industry legends.
But it's not just about the knowledge bombs – IoT DevFest Phoenix 2024 is also the perfect place to connect with your tribe.
You'll get to rub elbows with fellow tech geeks, experts in the field, and potential collaborators who could totally take your projects to the next level. As one attendee said,
"The event provided invaluable insights into the ever-evolving IoT realm, while fostering meaningful connections that have proven instrumental in driving innovation."
So mark your calendars, because this is an opportunity you won't want to miss!
Brightcove PLAY Meetup
(Up)The Brightcove PLAY Meetup is where it's at for anyone who's into video tech and digital media.
This event goes down regularly in Phoenix, and it's all about connecting with other people who get excited about the latest trends, tools, and best practices in online video.
Brightcove's own PLAYTV is an award-winning streaming service dedicated to everything that matters in digital media.
We're talking news, analysis, documentaries, and interviews that'll give you fresh ideas and actionable tips for using video to connect with any audience.
One of the best parts about the Brightcove PLAY Meetup is exploring the cutting-edge advancements in video tech, which is evolving at warp speed.
You can expect to level up your knowledge in areas like:
- 360-degree video and virtual reality: Dive into immersive experiences that capture every angle and perspective.
- Live streaming and video on demand: Master the art of real-time broadcasting and accessible viewing.
- Video analytics for data-driven optimization: Learn to leverage metrics for smarter decision-making and performance improvements.
- Emerging standards and codecs: Stay updated on the latest technology ensuring insane video quality.
With expert-led sessions and interactive discussions, you'll be ahead of the game in the ever-changing video landscape.
But it's not just about the technical side of things.
The Brightcove PLAY Meetup is also a prime opportunity to network and make connections that could seriously boost your career. As Brightcove careers shows, they're always on the lookout for global talent, so you never know who you might meet.
Networking is crucial for professional development, and this meetup lets you exchange ideas and maybe even spark collaborations that could take you to the next level.
As Daniel Thomas puts it,
"Networking is paramount in our digital era; every conversation could lead to a future opportunity you didn't foresee."
Women in Tech - Phoenix
(Up)The Women Tech Phoenix meetup is the place to be if you're a girl looking to slay the tech game. They're all about smashing the bias and giving ladies a solid platform to connect, grow skills, and build their tribe.
These meetups are packed with golden opportunities to level up your career.
You can link up with mentors through their mentorship program and get the real deal on navigating the workplace.
Or dive into dope technical workshops that'll help you upskill in coding, cybersecurity, and all the hot tech trends.
But it's not just about the hard skills – they've got your back with leadership training to help you boss up and own those board meetings.
As William Martinez, a regular at these meetups, puts it, "Women Tech Phoenix has been a total gamechanger for my career as a software engineer. The community support and knowledge sharing have been so clutch for me." With a lineup of fire events, a squad of ambitious women, and a mission to uplift us all, this meetup is setting the bar for gender equality in Phoenix tech.
Phoenix Mobile & Emerging Tech Fest
(Up)The Phoenix Emerging Tech Group is where the coolest tech geeks gather every year to discuss the latest innovations in mobile and emerging tech.
This fest in Phoenix is the place to be if you're into cutting-edge stuff like AI, VR, and blockchain. It's a chance to connect with likeminded people who share your passion for pushing boundaries and exploring the future of tech.
The TECHSPO Phoenix 2024 promises to be an epic event where you can check out the next generation of technology advancements firsthand.
Imagine being able to interact with developers showcasing mind-blowing innovations in areas like the internet, mobile apps, advertising tech, and marketing tech.
It's a two-day expo filled with opportunities to network, learn, and get inspired by the game-changers in the tech realm.
Tech Fest 2024, organized by the Deer Valley Unified School District, is a must-attend event for educators and tech enthusiasts alike.
This two-day extravaganza offers a wide range of learning opportunities, from hands-on workshops to insightful presentations, all focused on enhancing your technology skills for the classroom and beyond.
Whether you're a seasoned teacher or a student aspiring to be a tech whiz, this fest has something for everyone.
Methodology for Selecting Events
(Up)Picking the top 10 tech meetups and conferences to hit up in Phoenix is no joke, 'cause this city's tech scene is fire! To keep it real, we had to lock in some serious criteria.
- Variety was key - we wanted events that cover everything from blockchain to data science, entrepreneurship to emerging tech. Gotta cater to all the different career goals.
- Audience matters. We wanted events that welcome beginners and seasoned pros alike, keeping it inclusive for everyone to learn and connect.
- Impact had to be real too. We checked out networking opportunities and speaker lineups. Events that level up your skills and connect you with the right people? Those were the ones we wanted.
- Personal reviews from past attendees. Their first-hand experiences gave us the inside scoop on which events really deliver the goods. Like that one time Nucamp shared strategies for overcoming hurdles in Phoenix's tech ecosystem - that's the kind of value we were looking for.
So with all that in mind, we locked in the top 10 must-attend tech events in Phoenix.
These events are gonna be lit!
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)Why is Phoenix a top location for tech meetups and conferences?
Phoenix has a booming tech job market, reasonable living costs, and access to top talent from institutions like ASU. This environment, combined with the presence of big tech companies like Intel and TSMC, makes Phoenix an ideal location for tech events.
What is Phoenix DevCon?
Phoenix DevCon is an Ethereum-focused conference bringing developers and visionaries together for talks and workshops on protocol updates, UX design, and more. It's a global gathering aimed at decentralizing the internet.
What can participants expect from PHX Startup Week?
PHX Startup Week is a multi-day conference for entrepreneurs to learn from keynote speeches, panels, and workshops featuring local success stories and industry experts. It's also a great networking opportunity for aspiring and seasoned business professionals.
What type of content is covered at the Desert Blockchain Monthly meetup?
Desert Blockchain Monthly covers a range of blockchain topics like consensus mechanisms, smart contracts, DeFi, and the decentralized web. It's an opportunity for enthusiasts to share knowledge and engage in discussions about blockchain's future.
What makes the TechPHX Conference a must-attend event?
TechPHX Conference focuses on JavaScript and includes over 50 sessions on AI, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more. It's not just about learning; it offers ample networking opportunities, attracting over 2,500 attendees in past editions.
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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.