This Week's Latest Tech News in Billings, MT - Sunday April 6th 2025 Edition

In 2025, Billings, Montana has emerged as a rapidly growing tech hub, with its sector expanding seven times faster than the state economy. A recent federal grant of $41 million has catalyzed the tech industry, generating over $500 million in annual revenue and offering competitive salaries averaging $87,000.

The transformation is evident in the thriving job market, where cybersecurity roles command $116K annually, and the projected growth rate stands at 21%.

The city's evolution includes major employers like NorthWestern Energy and First Interstate Bank driving innovation in cloud computing and AI solutions. Local organizations like Rock31 Entrepreneurship Center provide crucial support for startups, while established companies like Zoot Enterprises anchor the fintech sector.

With the cost of living 14.7% below the national average and a projected shortage of 1,500 cybersecurity professionals by 2025, Billings offers unique opportunities for tech professionals.

The city's strategic investments in infrastructure and education, coupled with a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, are transforming this Montana hub into a legitimate tech destination, attracting both established companies and innovative startups.

Billings is experiencing a fiber optic revolution with multiple providers racing to enhance connectivity. TDS is investing $46 million in network expansion, aiming to reach over 50,000 addresses with speeds up to 8 Gig.

Currently, 10,000 addresses have access to their services, with an additional 5,000 homes and businesses in the West End slated for connection. Meanwhile, Ziply Fiber has launched its initiative to connect nearly 19,000 homes in Billings, offering speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 50 Gig with symmetrical upload/download capabilities.

The competition is heating up as IIG constructs over 600 miles of new fiber infrastructure across Montana, with completion expected by early 2025.

This multi-provider expansion is creating job opportunities, with TDS alone hiring 34 associates since the project's announcement. The developments are particularly significant for remote workers, gamers, and businesses requiring high-speed connectivity.

Local residents are already seeing benefits, with no annual contracts required by some providers and various pricing options available.

The expansion includes installation of cutting-edge infrastructure using methods like directional drilling and trenching, with providers coordinating with local authorities to minimize disruption.

To support this massive infrastructure growth, a new training program is launching at community colleges this fall, preparing workers for the increasing demand in broadband installation roles.

These combined efforts are positioning Billings as a major tech hub in Montana, promising to bridge the digital divide and stimulate economic growth through enhanced connectivity options.

“The developments are particularly significant for remote workers, gamers, and businesses requiring high-speed connectivity,” said Karen Martin.

• Fiber optic revolution: Multiple providers are competing to enhance connectivity in Billings.
• TDS investment: TDS is investing $46 million to expand their network, aiming to reach over 50,000 addresses.
• Ziply Fiber initiative: They aim to connect nearly 19,000 homes with high-speed symmetrical capabilities.
• IIG infrastructure: Over 600 miles of new fiber infrastructure is being constructed across Montana.
• Job opportunities: TDS has hired 34 associates since the project's announcement, increasing employment.
• Training program launch: A program at community colleges is preparing workers for broadband installation roles.

Montana's tech landscape is transforming in 2025, with Big Sky Dev Con leading the charge on August 2nd alongside several major tech gatherings.

The conference circuit kicks off with the Opex Technologies Summit at Spanish Peaks Mountain Club from March 3rd-6th, featuring tech leaders and innovators exploring cloud technologies and IT solutions.

The Big Sky GeoCon, running April 14th-17th at the Delta Marriott Hotel in Helena, showcases cutting-edge developments in geospatial technology and mapping innovations.

These events collectively highlight Montana's growing influence in tech, from artificial intelligence and cloud computing to geospatial solutions.

The programming includes hands-on workshops, expert-led sessions, and valuable networking opportunities. Industry leaders share insights on emerging technologies while local startups showcase innovative solutions.

Notable speakers include AI innovation leader Daniel Lee and various tech experts presenting on topics ranging from data management to cloud integration.

The conferences have catalyzed regional tech growth, with participants representing over 27 countries and fostering partnerships between government, industry, and academic sectors.

These gatherings demonstrate Montana's evolution into a significant tech hub, connecting local talent with global opportunities and driving technological advancement across multiple sectors.

CloudSync Solutions enters the Billings tech scene with a fresh perspective on cloud services, marking a pivotal moment for the local tech community. Founded by Christopher Moore, the company builds on nearly two decades of experience in cloud-based device management.

Their platform aims to bridge critical gaps in enterprise mobility and data integration, offering solutions that particularly resonate with Billings' growing business sector.

The company's approach focuses on practical, scalable implementations that help local businesses compete effectively in the digital space. The timing aligns perfectly with Billings' emerging status as a tech hub, evidenced by the increasing number of tech meetups and conferences in the region.

CloudSync's services include comprehensive mobile device management, secure enterprise mobility solutions, and specialized data integration tools. The platform stands out for its ability to connect seamlessly with existing systems while maintaining robust security protocols.

Looking ahead, CloudSync plans to create significant job opportunities in Billings, with positions ranging from technical support to development roles. Their innovative approach to Salesforce integration and data system connectivity positions them uniquely in the market, offering local businesses advanced capabilities previously available only to larger enterprises.

The company's launch represents a significant step forward for Billings' tech ecosystem, promising to deliver enterprise-grade solutions while maintaining the personalized service that local businesses value.

In a groundbreaking development for tech education, Learning Zone Inc. has launched comprehensive data analytics training programs in partnership with leading colleges in Billings, Montana.

Starting April 23rd, 2025, this initiative brings together academic expertise and industry-standard training, offering students exposure to cutting-edge tools and techniques in data analysis.

The collaboration integrates with Montana State University-Billings and Rocky Mountain College's existing tech programs, which are already contributing to the region's growing tech sector.

• Focus on Practical Skills: The partnership focuses on practical skills development, including SQL databases, R programming, and data visualization, while maintaining affordable education costs.
• Hands-on Experience: Students will benefit from hands-on experience through case studies and real-world projects, preparing them for the estimated 10,000 new tech jobs expected in the region by 2025.
• Strategic Alliance: This strategic alliance represents a significant step toward establishing Billings as a prominent tech education hub, combining academic excellence with practical industry requirements.
• Diverse Education Packages: Training packages include both classroom and online instructor-led sessions, making education accessible to diverse student populations while maintaining high-quality instruction standards.
• Creating Skilled Professionals: The initiative aims to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet the growing demands of the local tech industry, with particular emphasis on data cleaning, analysis, and visualization skills that employers consistently seek.

Training packages include both classroom and online instructor-led sessions, making education accessible to diverse student populations while maintaining high-quality instruction standards.

The initiative aims to create a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet the growing demands of the local tech industry, with particular emphasis on data cleaning, analysis, and visualization skills that employers consistently seek.

In Billings, MT, the adoption of remote work technology has reached new heights, with 20% of the workforce now operating remotely, reflecting broader national trends.

The city's tech scene is experiencing remarkable growth, with the industry growing seven times faster than Montana's overall economy and generating $500 million annually.

Companies are embracing digital transformation, driven by the fact that 87% of employees take advantage of remote work opportunities when offered.

Local businesses are seeing tangible benefits, with studies showing organizations can save up to $500,000 annually with a remote staff of 50 people by reducing office space costs.

The shift has particularly impacted sectors like IT, accounting, and healthcare, where remote capabilities have become essential. Remote workers report saving an average of 72 minutes daily in commute time, contributing to improved work-life balance and productivity.

The city's competitive advantage is further strengthened by its cost of living, which is 14.7% below the national average, making it attractive for both employers and remote workers.

While challenges exist, particularly in cybersecurity and digital collaboration, Billings' businesses are responding with robust training programs and investment in secure communication platforms.

This strategic embrace of remote work technology positions Billings as an emerging tech hub, attracting talent and fostering innovation across industries.

Billings' tech industry is experiencing remarkable growth in 2025, with a projected 15% sector expansion and average tech salaries reaching $75,000.

The city's tech ecosystem is particularly thriving due to its cost of living being 10% below the national average, making it an attractive destination for tech professionals and companies.

Major employers like Epic, SynergisticIT, and First Interstate Bank are actively recruiting, while specialty roles command salaries exceeding $120,000.

The landscape is particularly promising for emerging tech professionals, with over 56 active IT positions across various specialties.

The sector has received a significant boost from a $41 million federal grant, resulting in over $500 million in annual revenue. Companies like Watts And Associates and Fiserv are leading the charge in innovation, particularly in areas such as agricultural risk management and financial services technology.

The city's tech transformation is further supported by its diverse economic foundation and strong entrepreneurial networks.

The Rock31 Entrepreneurship Center and organizations like the Yellowstone Tech Alliance are fostering a collaborative environment for tech startups.

Educational institutions, including Montana State University-Billings and City College, are adapting their programs to meet industry demands, particularly in high-growth areas such as cybersecurity and data analytics.

With this robust ecosystem in place, Billings is positioning itself as Montana's premier tech hub, offering a unique blend of professional opportunities and quality of life that's attracting both established companies and innovative startups.

Billings, MT, has evolved into a burgeoning tech hub, with technological advancements reshaping the city's economic landscape. According to recent forecasts from the Montana Bureau of Business and Economic Research, AI technology could transform local business practices, potentially triggering a second industrial revolution in the region.

The tech sector is already growing at nine times the rate of Montana's overall economy, with salaries averaging twice the state median. Tech companies in Billings are part of a broader initiative aiming to increase the tech sector's contribution to Montana's GDP from 5% to 15% within the next decade.

The 2025 Economic Outlook Survey by BBER indicates a stabilizing economy with new developments in healthcare and tourism sectors, though the region faces challenges in balancing job availability with housing needs.

A significant development is the implementation of AI solutions in local businesses, which is helping with recruitment, employee retention, and reducing routine tasks.

Local tech companies have adapted by integrating these AI tools into their operations, creating more efficient workflows and boosting productivity. The transformation is evident in various sectors, from healthcare facilities to educational institutions, where AI-driven solutions are streamlining processes and creating new opportunities for growth.

This tech evolution has attracted investors and entrepreneurs to Billings, establishing it as a promising hub for innovation in Montana.

In 2025, Billings' local government continues to drive technological advancement through strategic planning and infrastructure development. The city's newly established 2025-2030 strategic plan emphasizes digital transformation and smart city initiatives, marking a significant shift in municipal operations.

A major breakthrough came with the allocation of $1.7 million in federal funds for transportation infrastructure upgrades, incorporating smart traffic management systems and digital monitoring capabilities.

The Montana Digital Government Summit has highlighted key focus areas including cybersecurity, AI implementation, and data governance, positioning Billings at the forefront of government tech innovation.

This comprehensive approach includes modernizing city services, with initiatives like the automated utility billing system and digital permit processing reducing administrative delays by 40%.

The city has also launched a technology-driven workforce development program, partnering with local educational institutions to create specialized tech training modules.

These efforts align with broader economic development goals, aiming to attract tech companies and create a sustainable digital ecosystem. Public-private partnerships remain crucial, with local tech firms collaborating on projects ranging from smart city sensors to public WiFi networks.

The integration of city departments under one roof by March 2025 is expected to further streamline digital services and enhance inter-departmental collaboration, creating a more efficient and tech-savvy local government.

Tech events in Billings are reshaping the local community's future. Billings has emerged as a thriving tech hub, ranked among CompTIA's top 20 tech cities in 2023, creating over 2,000 high-paying jobs.

The Montana Technology Enterprise Center (MTEC) now supports more than 300 members, including 50 tech companies, providing crucial mentorship and funding opportunities.

Local events like the Montana Programmers Meetup and Remote Fridays have become cornerstone networking opportunities, fostering connections between developers and entrepreneurs.

The Better Off in Billings initiative has further amplified these efforts, with recent events focusing on talent attraction and retention through improved community engagement and digital infrastructure.

Notable companies like WebBuy, Elation, and Blackbrick Software have established strong presences, contributing to an estimated $500 million annual tech industry revenue.

The city's tech sector growth is now seven times faster than the overall state economy, with particular expansion in cybersecurity, AI technologies, and medical technology innovations.

This momentum is supported by organizations like Big Sky Code Academy, which trains the local tech workforce to meet growing demands. The combination of lower operating costs, supportive community networks, and increasing educational resources has created an environment where tech professionals can thrive.

Local tech events not only provide learning opportunities but also showcase Billings as an emerging technology center, attracting investment and talent from across the region.

The city's commitment to fostering tech growth through these gatherings has established a foundation for long-term success in the digital economy.

Billings' tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth, with startups showing an 18% growth since 2022, creating over 2,000 high-paying jobs.

Companies like PatientOne are revolutionizing healthcare through AI and IoT integration, achieving a 30% decrease in emergency room visits. The entrepreneurial spirit is evident in WebBuy's success, which transformed car-buying experiences with their innovative app, achieving 20% close rates for dealerships.

Montana's tech industry is growing seven times faster than the overall state economy, with Billings' tech sector generating an estimated $500 million annually.

The recent opening of the Washington Innovation Center in August 2024 marks another milestone, offering early college credits and tech training to nurture the next generation of innovators.

The Montana Technology Enterprise Center (MTEC) supports over 300 members, including 50 tech companies, providing crucial mentorship and funding opportunities.

Success stories from companies like Elation and Workbench, which raised $9 million and employ 50 locals, demonstrate how Billings' supportive ecosystem enables tech ventures to thrive.

The city's commitment to innovation extends across various sectors, from cybersecurity to medical technology, positioning Billings as a competitive tech hub with lower operating costs and a collaborative community spirit.

Billings continues to cement its position as Montana's premier tech destination, with a projected 15% industry growth rate in 2025 and average tech salaries hitting $75,000.

The city's success is amplified by its cost of living, running 10% below the national average, making it especially attractive for tech professionals and startups.

The thriving startup ecosystem includes innovative companies like WebBuy, Elation, and Workbench, which recently secured $9 million in funding.

Major employers such as Epic, SynergisticIT, and First Interstate Bank continue to expand their tech operations, creating over 2,000 high-paying jobs across various specialties including cybersecurity and data analysis.

The upcoming Better Off in Billings event in April 2025 will showcase the city's booming development projects and growing workforce opportunities.

With entry-level tech positions offering salaries between $42,000 and $82,000, and specialty roles commanding $120,000+, Billings is proving itself as a competitive tech hub.

The Montana Technology Enterprise Center (MTEC) supports this growth with over 300 members, including 50 tech companies, providing crucial mentorship and funding opportunities.

Looking ahead, the region's tech industry is expected to generate $500 million annually, with particular expansion in cybersecurity firms, AI technologies, and medical technology innovations.