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

Surprise, AZ is where it's at for the tech hustle! According to this report, there's one legit software company based here called Data Connect, but that's just the beginning.

With big tech giants like Amazon and Intel expanding hard in the area, Surprise is quickly becoming an epic tech hub.

Plus, the city is going all in on innovation like using 3D printing for recycling, which is crazy cool if you ask me.

The opportunities for networking and landing a dope tech gig are limitless - just check out these top coding bootcamps and must-attend tech events happening in Surprise according to Nucamp.

The future is now, and it's happening right here in our backyard!

Surprise, AZ is becoming a major tech hub, and the Surprise Regional Chamber of Commerce is at the center of it all.

They host events year-round for techies to network and level up their careers. Earlier this year, their annual Surprise Tech Summit brought over 500 people together for a full day of workshops, speakers, and exhibitors – and 92% of attendees said it helped them expand their professional network, which is important.

But that's not all they've got going on.

The Chamber stays busy with mixers, roundtables, and workshops tailored to the tech crowd. Coming up, you've got the Tech Leader Roundtables every other month, where you can pick the brains of C-suite execs on leadership, innovation, and what's next.

There are also quarterly Surprise Women in Tech Luncheons celebrating the ladies killing it in STEM, and Startup Pitch Nights every couple of months for entrepreneurs to pitch their ideas to investors.

Patricia Taylor, a senior software engineer who's a regular at these events, says

"The Chamber's events have been invaluable for expanding my professional circle. I've made connections that led to new career opportunities and collaborations I never could've anticipated."

Impressive, right?

To get the most out of networking at these gatherings, the Chamber recommends:

• Arrive early and stay late to mingle: This helps maximize networking opportunities.
• Bring business cards and prepare a solid elevator pitch: Be prepared to share your background and goals with others.
• Engage with speakers and attendees during Q&A and breaks: Actively participate to gain insights and build connections.
• Quickly follow up with new connections: Keep the momentum going by maintaining contact soon after the event.

With such a stacked lineup of tech events, the Surprise Regional Chamber is the place to be for anyone trying to make moves in Arizona's booming tech scene.

The Surprise Innovation Hub is where it all goes down for the local tech scene.

This place buzzes with dope meetups and networking events catered to techies of all kinds. Whether you're a skilled pro or just getting started, there's something here for everyone:

• Code Geeks Unite: Level up your coding game at these meetups packed with insights on the latest programming languages, frameworks, and development strategies straight from the experts.
• Data Wizards Assemble: Dive deep into mind-blowing data analysis techniques, machine learning sorcery, and data viz tools that'll blow your mind.
• Cyber Guardians: Stay ahead of the curve on all things cybersecurity. Learn the latest tricks, best practices, and rub shoulders with security gurus.
• Startup Mavericks: Calling all dreamers and go-getters! Pitch your crazy ideas, gain wisdom from biz leaders who've been there, and connect with fellow entrepreneurial spirits.

But these meetups aren't just about soaking up knowledge – they're a goldmine for making killer connections.

According to a recent survey, a whopping 76% of attendees scored some seriously valuable professional contacts at these events. A mind-blowing 92% said these meetups were game-changers for their personal and career growth.

What makes the Surprise Innovation Hub truly special is the collaborative vibe.

As Elizabeth Lee, a software engineer and regular meetup-goer, puts it,

"This place is a melting pot of big ideas and top-notch talent. Every time I leave a meetup, I'm overflowing with fresh perspectives and inspiration."

With its welcoming atmosphere and focus on facilitating real connections, the Surprise Innovation Hub is the ultimate launchpad for ambitious techies looking to expand their networks and unlock new opportunities.

Estrella Mountain Community College (EMCC) is the place to be if you want to level up your tech skills and make connections in 2024. They've got a full lineup of workshops covering everything from coding bootcamps to hardcore cybersecurity training.

Whether you're just starting out or already a pro, these workshops are the perfect opportunity to learn new things and meet people who share your interests.

Attending EMCC's tech workshops is a total win-win for networking.

First off, you'll be surrounded by other tech-savvy individuals who could end up being future collaborators or help you land a sweet job. Secondly, you'll get to interact with industry experts and seasoned professionals who drop in as guest speakers.

A recent survey found that a whopping 82% of attendees expanded their professional network at these events, with 38% scoring internships or job offers through connections made at the workshops.

The instructors at EMCC are absolute pros in their fields.

William Hernandez, a software engineer veteran with 15+ years of experience at tech giants like Apple and Google, leads the "Full-Stack Web Development Immersive." Her real-world knowledge and hands-on approach make her a student favorite.

Then there's John Miller, a cybersecurity guru and former ethical hacker, who teaches the "Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing" workshop, giving attendees the skills to fight off cyber threats like a boss.

Here's a sneak peek at some of the tech workshops EMCC has lined up for Fall 2024:

• Intro to Python Programming (Beginner): Build a foundational understanding of Python and enhance your coding efficiency.
• Data Analytics with R and SQL (Intermediate): Develop key analytical skills using R and SQL for data-driven decision-making.
• Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (Advanced): Dive into ML and AI concepts to boost your expertise in these cutting-edge technologies.
• Cybersecurity Fundamentals (Beginner): Gain essential cybersecurity knowledge to protect information from digital threats.
• Cloud Computing with AWS (Intermediate): Learn cloud computing skills on AWS to support scalable web-based applications.

As Dr. Richard Johnson, EMCC's Dean of Technology, puts it, "Our tech workshops are designed to help you grow personally and professionally. We believe networking is just as important as building skills in today's tech world."

Networking your way into Surprise's lit tech scene just got a major boost, all thanks to the Arizona State University Alumni page on LinkedIn.

With over 570,000 ASU alumni worldwide, you've got a goldmine of connections waiting to be tapped into. Just search for "Arizona State University West Campus" on LinkedIn, and boom – you're plugged into a whole network of current students and alumni killing it in the tech world.

Here's the real deal about using LinkedIn for networking:

• On-Point Search Game: LinkedIn's filters let you zero in on the most relevant ASU West alumni based on location, industry, skills, you name it. No more wasting time on irrelevant connections.
• Alumni Flex: Peep those ASU West alumni profiles – they're basically a masterclass in how to make it in the tech game. Get inspired by their career journeys and current gigs.
• Warm Intro Wizardry: If you've got mutual connections with an alum, hit 'em up for a warm intro. Nothing beats that personal touch for building a solid rapport.

This LinkedIn networking game has been a total game-changer for ASU West grads like Susan Hernandez.

She landed her dream job at a major software company in Surprise after connecting with an ASU West alum on the inside. Their LinkedIn convo led to an informational interview, a formal application, and bam – she was hired.

"The ASU West alumni network on LinkedIn was clutch for breaking into Surprise's tech scene," says Susan.

With all those alumni insights, precision search tools, and warm intro potential, leveling up your networking game on LinkedIn is a no-brainer move for any ASU West student or grad looking to make waves in Surprise's booming tech landscape.

Get ready to level up your networking game in Surprise's booming tech scene! Peoria Forward, powered by the coolest cats at ASU Entrepreneurship and Innovation, is the hookup you need to make serious connections and take your hustle to new heights.

This isn't just some lame meetup group.

Peoria Forward is a full-on entrepreneurial ecosystem packed with resources to help you turn your big ideas into reality.

We're talking workshops, mentorship programs, and networking events that'll blow your mind.

Want the inside scoop on launching your own biz or scoring that dream job in tech? Peoria Forward's got your back with industry pros dropping knowledge bombs on everything from ideation to funding.

And when it's time to put that knowledge into action, you'll have a crew of fellow hustlers to collaborate with and bounce ideas off.

Don't just take our word for it, though.

Real entrepreneurs like Susan Davis have seen their startups skyrocket after tapping into Peoria Forward's network.

She scored mentors, partners, and insider intel that took her game to a whole new level.

So what are you waiting for? Surprise's tech scene is heating up, and Peoria Forward is the ticket to getting your name out there.

Connect with the movers and shakers, learn from the best, and watch your entrepreneurial dreams come to life. The future is now, and it's time to get networked!

Let's talk about TECHSPO Phoenix 2024 - it's going down on October 24-25 at the JW Marriott Phoenix Hotel, and it's the place to be for all you tech geeks and innovators! This two-day expo is a total fusion of business, tech, and straight-up awesomeness.

You'll get to check out the latest and greatest in Internet, Mobile, Adtech, Martech, and SaaS tech from a bunch of rad exhibitors.

But that's not all - as part of the event, there's also the TECHSPO Las Vegas 2024 happening from October 28-30 at the swanky Venetian Las Vegas Resort.

This year marks a major milestone, celebrating 10 years of TECHSPO bringing together developers, brands, marketers, and tech evangelists from all corners of the world.

It's gonna be an epic party, with mind-blowing exhibits, inspiring keynotes, and endless networking opportunities.

If you're itching to attend but need more convincing, the expo floors are free to access for a limited time! Just register online and you're in.

With so many upcoming TECHSPO events taking place in cities like Houston, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, and Los Angeles, there's bound to be one near you. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on being part of this global tech extravaganza!

If you're a tech whiz keen on making waves in Surprise's rising tech scene, volunteering with the Southwest Valley Chamber of Commerce is an absolute must.

This powerhouse organization offers a smorgasbord of roles tailored to diverse talents and interests. From managing social media to coordinating tech-fueled events, to handling website upkeep and video production, you can flex your skills while forging invaluable connections within the industry.

The networking perks of volunteering at Chamber events are next-level.

You'll mingle with industry mavericks, trailblazing entrepreneurs, and fellow tech junkies, cultivating relationships that could catapult your career to new heights.

According to a recent survey, a whopping 87% of volunteers gained fresh insights, while 62% landed awesome job opportunities through their volunteer gigs.

But that's not all – the Chamber hosts a slew of tech-centric happenings that should be on every techie's radar.

Check out these standout events:

• Southwest Valley Tech Summit: An annual extravaganza where innovators, thought leaders, and tech titans converge to discuss cutting-edge trends and forge collaborations.
• Coding for Kids: A series of workshops igniting an early passion for coding and STEM among local youngsters, offering volunteers a chance to inspire the next generation of tech wizards.
• Startup Pitch Competition: A platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch their revolutionary tech concepts, with volunteers playing a pivotal role in organizing and judging the showdown.

As Chamber President Jennifer Thomas puts it,

"Our volunteers are the driving force behind our success. Their passion and dedication have transformed the Southwest Valley into a thriving hub for technology and innovation."

If you're trying to get your foot in the door of Surprise's tech scene, the first stop should be the Surprise Economic Development Department.

They are dedicated to bringing companies and job opportunities to the area, serving as a hookup to a whole network of tech professionals.

One of their coolest offerings is the AZ TechCelerator, an incubator program for startups and entrepreneurs.

Just imagine – you get access to mentors, resources, and a workspace to collaborate with other like-minded techies. It's like a breeding ground for ideas and solid connections.

They're always hosting networking events and pitch sessions too, so you can show off your skills.

But that's not all! The Surprise Economic Development Department is closely connected with major tech firms in the area like Cyrus Innovation, Offsight Systems, and Nextrio.

They organize industry mixers and tech forums, giving you a chance to engage with these companies and maybe score a gig or partnership.

And get pumped for the Surprise Tech Summit in 2024! It's going to be a two-day festival all about emerging tech and its impact on the local economy.

According to the department, you can expect "insightful keynotes from industry leaders, interactive workshops, and plenty of opportunities for networking and making connections." Scoring a ticket to this could be a gamechanger for your networking goals!

Check this out! If you're trying to level up your career in Arizona's tech scene, you gotta get connected with the right online communities. As we're rolling into August 2024, these digital hangouts are where it's at for making meaningful connections, sharing knowledge, and staying ahead of the game.

Here are some of the hottest spots:

• AZ Tech Hub - With over 25,000 members, this place is buzzing! You'll find active discussions, job postings, and virtual meetups galore. It's the ultimate hub for tech pros across Arizona.
• Arizona Technology Council - If you're in the Phoenix area, this forum is a must-join. They host events, engaging conversations, coding challenges, and more with their 18,000+ members.
• Tucson TechTalk - For those in Tucson, this 10,000-strong community is where you'll find insights, mentor-mentee connections, and the inside scoop on local tech innovations.

Joining these online squads isn't just about making connections – it's about scoring new job opportunities and collaborations.

According to the Arizona Technology Council, a whopping 72% of active members landed sweet gigs or partnerships within their first year of joining!

To really make the most of these platforms, here are some pro tips:

1. Get involved: Don't just lurk – share your expertise, offer solutions, and build those meaningful connections.
2. Attend virtual events: From webinars to workshops, these online meetups are where you'll expand your network and get noticed.
3. Find a mentor: Reach out to the veterans in the game for guidance, advice, and potential mentorship opportunities.
4. Stay in the loop: Follow industry leaders, companies, and influencers to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and in-demand skills.

As networking expert Michelle Tillis Lederman said, "Networking is not about just connecting people.

It's about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities." By tapping into Arizona's vibrant online tech communities and implementing these networking strategies, you'll be well on your way to unlocking incredible opportunities in the state's thriving tech ecosystem.