Top 10 Strategies for Networking Your Way into Phoenix's Tech Scene

Phoenix's tech scene is straight-up booming, and networking has never been more vital! According to CompTIA's projections, tech job growth in Phoenix between 2022-2024 is set to skyrocket by a mind-blowing 9.6%, leaving the national average of 6.7% in the dust.

This surge is fueled by several game-changers:

• Major tech giants like Intel and Amazon are setting up shop in Phoenix, bringing their A-game
• Existing tech leaders like ON Semiconductor and Microchip Technology are rapidly expanding their operations
• Phoenix's startup ecosystem is on fire, with a staggering $1.2 billion in venture capital funding raised in 2022 alone
• Huge investments like the $5 billion semiconductor center and TSMC's $12 billion fab plant are creating thousands of new tech jobs

As Richard Davis, President & CEO of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, puts it, "Phoenix's tech talent pipeline is growing at a rapid-fire pace, making it an extremely attractive market for innovation." With projections of over 20,000 new tech jobs by 2024, networking has become essential for professionals seeking to capitalize on these opportunities and level up their careers in this dynamic landscape.

Check out the top tech meetups and conferences in Phoenix to start building your network!

For real, Galvanize is the spot to be if you wanna dive into Phoenix's tech scene and make those connections. This coworking space has been the hub for all things innovative since it hit the ground running in 2012.

With a massive 8,000 square feet dedicated to collab zones, slick classrooms, and event venues, Galvanize Phoenix is where it's at for ambitious entrepreneurs, seasoned pros, and tech nerds like us.

They host a crazy number of meetups focused on tech, which means endless opportunities to expand your network and stay up-to-date with the latest industry buzz.

We're talking coding workshops, data science seminars, startup pitch nights, hackathons – you name it, they got it covered. Their Phoenix campus hosts over 1,900 of these events annually, drawing in crowds of fellow tech enthusiasts and professionals.

To make the most out of your Galvanize event experience, here are some pro tips:

1. Show up early and mingle before the event kicks off – it's the perfect chance to break the ice and make those initial connections.
2. Get involved in discussions, ask questions, and share your knowledge to showcase your expertise – don't be a wallflower!
3. Carry business cards and swap contact info with interesting peeps for future collabs or opportunities.
4. Follow up promptly after the event with personalized messages to solidify those new connections.

As Miranda Torres, the Campus Operations Manager, put it, "Our events are all about fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and genuine connections within the tech community.

We strive to create an inclusive environment where individuals can learn, grow, and build lasting professional relationships."

The Arizona Technology Council (ATC) has been a driving force in Phoenix's tech scene since way back in 1957. With over 700 member companies, from Fortune 500 giants to rad startups, the ATC represents a diverse range of industries like aerospace, optics, data centers, and renewable energy.

Joining this influential organization opens up a world of opportunities for anyone looking to expand their network and take their career in Phoenix's booming tech industry to new heights.

As an ATC member, you get access to a massive network of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and subject matter experts through their stacked lineup of events.

We're talking networking mixers, panel discussions, workshops – the whole nine yards. These expertly curated gatherings are the perfect chance to make valuable connections and gain insights from seasoned pros.

The best part? The ATC hosts over 100 educational and networking events annually, so you'll always have opportunities to engage with the local tech community.

But it doesn't stop there.

The ATC hooks its members up with a suite of indispensable resources, including:

• Customized business support: Services like market research and business plan assistance. Access to tailored support can make a real difference in strategic planning.
• Exclusive discounts: Savings on business services, professional development programs, and industry publications allow for cost-effective growth and learning opportunities.
• Opportunities for sponsorship: Getting involved in corporate sponsorships and strategic partnerships opens doors to expanded visibility and collaborative efforts.
• Advocacy efforts: Representation at the state and federal levels ensures a favorable business climate for tech companies to thrive.

The ATC has played a major role in the success of numerous tech companies in Phoenix.

One prominent local startup's CEO, Patricia Martinez, shared,

"The ATC has been instrumental in facilitating connections and providing valuable resources that have propelled our growth."

That's the kind of impact we're talking about here.

LinkedIn is the spot for making killer connections in Phoenix's tech scene. If you're a techie looking to level up your network, this platform is an absolute game-changer.

According to the buzz, over 70% of tech pros in the Phoenix area are active on LinkedIn, using it to advance their careers and build connections.

To really unlock LinkedIn's potential, join the right local groups.

The Arizona Technology Council is a total must-join with over 12,000 members.

It's a hub for tech companies, professionals, and industry leaders in the state. Another solid option is the Phoenix Tech Hub, a vibrant community of over 8,000 members focused on networking, job opportunities, and industry insights.

Don't sleep on #YesPhx either – with over 5,000 members, this group is all about promoting the Phoenix tech ecosystem and facilitating networking events.

Engaging with industry leaders is key to expanding your network and gaining valuable insights.

Follow thought leaders and engage with their content by leaving insightful comments and sharing their posts. Use the "Alumni" feature to connect with professionals from your alma mater who work in the tech industry.

And don't be a wallflower in group discussions – share your expertise, seek advice from more experienced members, and get involved.

As Elizabeth Lopez, a prominent figure in the Phoenix tech scene, says, "LinkedIn is a goldmine for networking and professional growth, but it's up to you to dig in and make meaningful connections." So, start building those connections that can take your tech career to new heights.

In the heart of PHX's tech scene, there's this sick co-working space called CoHoots that's like a whole vibe for networking and getting stuff done.

We're talking 14,000 square feet of private offices, dedicated desks, and chill lounges designed to keep your creativity flowing and productivity on point. But CoHoots ain't just about the workspace, it's a legit hangout for tech geeks looking to expand their professional circles.

They host these dope tech-focused meetups that have become the spot for professionals, entrepreneurs, and students to connect.

From coding workshops to startup pitch nights, these events are prime for linking up with peeps who get it, swapping ideas, and gaining some serious insider knowledge.

According to their event calendar, CoHoots averages like 15 tech meetups each month, covering everything from app dev to cybersecurity and all the latest emerging tech trends.

But the real advantage of co-working at places like CoHoots goes beyond the meetups.

As David Hernandez, their Director of Operations, puts it, "The true power is in the random connections that happen naturally.

Our members come from all sorts of backgrounds, but they're united by this passion for innovation." It's like a melting pot of ideas and expertise, creating an atmosphere that's prime for collaborating and potential partnerships.

Key benefits include:

• Diverse talent pool - Access to a diverse talent pool opens up numerous perspectives and skill sets.
• Resource sharing - Shared resources enhance collective efficiency and knowledge exchange.
• Mentorship growth - The potential for mentorship fosters professional and personal growth.
• Business opportunities - Exposure to new business opportunities can spur innovation and collaboration.

With its thriving community, CoHoots embodies the essence of networking in Phoenix's tech scene, fostering connections that can elevate your career and shape the future of innovation.

Arizona State University is excellent when it comes to tech education and networking in Phoenix. They've got a range of programs that'll give you all the skills and connections you need to excel in the tech game.

In 2024, ASU's Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering are dropping three brand-spankin' new degrees that'll blow your mind: a B.S. in Robotics, an M.S. in Quantum Engineering, and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Data Science.

Talk about cutting-edge!

But it's not just about the degrees. ASU is a total networking goldmine for tech enthusiasts looking to expand their skillset and make some serious connections.

They host a bunch of epic workshops and seminars throughout the year that are perfect for rubbing elbows with industry hotshots. Like, they've got the annual ASU+Galvanize Web Immersion program where you get to work on real-world projects and connect with the pros.

And let's not forget about the AI+Ethics Speaker Series, where you can hear from the biggest names in AI and explore the ethical implications of the tech.

Oh, and the ASU Innovation Open? That's a pitch competition where you can check out the sickest student startups and maybe even score some face time with investors or mentors.

ASU's tech community is seriously buzzing, and there are so many opportunities for organic networking.

Susan Davis, Director of the ASU Entrepreneurship + Innovation program, says it best:

"The true value of ASU's tech ecosystem lies in the serendipitous connections forged over impromptu coffee chats or casual conversations in our maker spaces and tech lounges."

When you're part of ASU's dynamic tech scene, you've got access to a whole world of knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and relationship-building that'll take your career to new heights in Phoenix's booming tech industry.

Phoenix's tech scene is on fire, and the #yesphx community is fanning the flames. This movement, which started as a simple hashtag back in 2014, has become a driving force behind the city's entrepreneurial spirit and tech growth.

If you're looking to get your foot in the door, #yesphx events are where it's at.

These folks know how to throw an epic bash while networking and sharing knowledge. From insightful tech talks where industry hotshots spill the tea, to adrenaline-pumping hackathons where you can flex your coding muscles, there's something for everyone.

The #yesphx community is all about paying it forward.

They organize events like "Give Camp," where tech whizzes come together to develop solutions for local non-profits, making a real difference in the community.

It's a win-win situation – you get to sharpen your skills while giving back.

• 25,000 attendees: With over 25,000 attendees at their events since the beginning, #yesphx has become a hub for the city's tech-savvy crowd.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, these events are the perfect place to rub shoulders with like-minded individuals, swap stories, and maybe even land your next gig.

PHX Startup Week is this epic annual event that's a total must for anyone in Phoenix's startup scene. In 2024, it's going down from November 11th to 15th, and you won't want to miss it.

It's like a networking paradise where you can rub elbows with Phoenix's most innovative entrepreneurs, investors, and tech gurus.

Beyond the pitch competitions and investor meetups, there's a crazy lineup of over 100 sessions covering everything from funding strategies to cutting-edge tech trends.

These sessions are led by seasoned founders and industry experts, so you'll be learning from the best while making valuable connections.

But the real highlight is the Startup Village, where you can immerse yourself in the local startup ecosystem.

Check out groundbreaking products and services, attend hands-on workshops, and even score one-on-one mentoring sessions with seasoned entrepreneurs.

It's a networking goldmine, and you might just meet your future co-founder or investor.

Jennifer Miller, founder of EcoTech Solutions, landed investors and game-changing partnerships at last year's PHX Startup Week, propelling her company to new heights.

With its buzzing atmosphere and endless networking opportunities, PHX Startup Week is an absolute game-changer for anyone looking to level up their entrepreneurial game in Phoenix.

Check this out - Tech Jobs for Good is an awesome job board featuring opportunities at companies with a mission to tackle major social and environmental issues.

From climate change to healthcare and education, they're connecting talented techies with employers doing work that actually matters.

But it's more than just job listings.

The Tech for Good Institute is on a mission to make sure technology drives inclusive and sustainable growth, especially in Southeast Asia.

They bring together diverse voices to shape policies and understand the impact of emerging tech on the region.

And for those looking to get hands-on experience in using tech for social good, check out Tech to the Rescue.

Their Tech for Good Navigator outlines 10 different ways companies can engage in pro-bono projects for non-profits. Whether you're looking to upskill your team, compete in a hackathon, or mentor a non-profit, they've got you covered with a step-by-step playbook.

Phoenix Tech for Good is definitely worth checking out too.

As a local non-profit, they're on a mission to bridge the digital divide and empower underserved communities through free tech education, computer refurbishing, and community outreach initiatives.

By volunteering with them, you not only gain hands-on experience but also connect with a network of professionals passionate about using their skills for positive change.

Attention all the ladies killing it in the tech game! If you're looking to level up your career and connect with a group of women in STEM, you need to check out TechWomen Arizona.

This nonprofit is all about empowering and supporting the next generation of female leaders in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

TechWomen brings together emerging women leaders from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East for a mentorship and exchange program in the U.S. You'll get to work on real-world projects with mentors from top companies, attend workshops on topics like entrepreneurship and leadership, and form connections with like-minded women from around the globe.

Additionally, TechWomen offers programs for women in STEM based in Arizona.

Quarterly "TechTalks" with inspiring speakers, a mentorship program to help you level up your skills, and "CodeHERs" coding workshops and hackathons to flex your technical muscles.

Their annual "Elevate: Women in Tech Summit" is the place to be for networking, workshops, and connecting with fellow tech professionals.

Phoenix is straight-up killing it when it comes to the tech game, and Seed Spot is at the forefront of fueling that fire.

This non-profit is all about empowering entrepreneurs and helping them turn their innovative ideas into thriving businesses.

Seed Spot's accelerator and incubator programs are legit, offering mentorship, funding opportunities, and a supportive community to help startups soar.

Just check out success stories like Huxxable, an AI recruiting whiz, and FreeFall Aerospace, pushing boundaries in the drone tech space – these guys hit it big with Seed Spot's guidance.

If you're an aspiring tech mogul looking to network and level up, Seed Spot's got your back:

• Accelerator Programs: Intense training, expert mentors, and access to investors – everything you need to launch your startup into the stratosphere.
• Incubator Programs: Early-stage startups get personalized support, co-working spaces, and a tight-knit community to help them grow.
• Networking Events: From pitch nights to meetups, these events are prime for making valuable connections and learning from industry pros.

According to the folks at Arizona State University, Seed Spot has pumped a whopping $284 million into Arizona's economy, cementing its status as a driving force behind Phoenix's booming tech scene.

Oh, and don't forget to check out these must-attend tech events and success stories from Phoenix's tech hub.