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

Kern County's tech scene is thriving, with community meetups playing a crucial role in connecting professionals. The Kern Cyber Corps hosts monthly meetups focusing on cutting-edge topics like software engineering, cloud services, and cybersecurity.

These gatherings are perfect for networking and staying updated on the latest tech trends.

For those looking to expand their skills, Bakersfield Youth Jobs Program offers paid internships and fellowships in various tech fields, providing hands-on experience and mentorship opportunities.

To boost your job prospects, consider joining groups like Bakersfield's Women in Tech, which fosters knowledge sharing and networking.

Don't forget to check out local colleges and the Kern County Network for Children for additional collaborative opportunities.

When attending these events, remember to:

• Bring business cards: Always have them on hand to share your contact information quickly and professionally.
• Prepare a brief introduction: Have a concise, engaging way to introduce yourself and your interests in tech.
• Be open to learning from others: Engage with the community and absorb as much knowledge and experience as possible.

Remember, Kern County's tech community is all about growth and mutual support, so jump in and start building those connections!

The Bakersfield Software Development Group (BSDG) is the go-to spot for tech enthusiasts in Kern County. With over 500 active members, it's like a digital playground for developers of all levels.

Founded in 2012, BSDG has become the ultimate resource for anyone looking to level up their coding skills and make some serious connections. Members get access to monthly meetups, a private Slack channel for 24/7 support, and quarterly hackathons with some sweet cash prizes.

But it's not just about the perks - it's about the community. As Clutch.co reports, Bakersfield's tech scene is growing fast, with companies like Cloud Ten Labs and iOPTIME leading the charge in web and mobile app development.

To join this thriving community, just hit up the BSDG website, create an account, and show up to an intro session. The group's impact is real - members are landing jobs and moving up in their careers like never before.

In fact, UpCity lists several top software development companies in Bakersfield, showing just how much the tech landscape has expanded.

BSDG isn't just about individual growth; it's playing a huge role in Bakersfield's tech ecosystem. According to recent data, the number of new tech jobs in the area has been steadily increasing, with BSDG members snagging a significant chunk of these opportunities.

Whether you're just starting out or you're a coding wizard, joining BSDG is your fast pass to diving into Bakersfield's buzzing tech scene.

It's where all the cool coders are hanging out!

Bakersfield College is a goldmine for tech enthusiasts looking to level up their skills and expand their professional circle. The college's Information Technology program offers a diverse range of courses including programming, networking, cybersecurity, and web development.

These practical classes are designed to equip students with the know-how to excel in various tech careers. For those eyeing a specific path, the college provides a Computer Science Associate in Science for Transfer program.

This course helps students master programming constructs, functions, and object-oriented concepts. Web enthusiasts can dive into the Web Design and Development program, which covers everything from HTML and CSS to JavaScript and MySQL. The college's commitment to student success is evident through its various support services, including career counseling and tutoring labs.

With a 92% satisfaction rate among attendees, these programs are clearly hitting the mark. Whether you're a coding newbie or looking to refine your skills, Bakersfield College's tech offerings can help you make waves in the local tech scene.

Remember, it's not just about the classes - the connections you make here could lead to your next big break in tech!

Bitwise Industries Bakersfield, once a promising tech hub, faced a major setback in 2023. The company, which aimed to remove barriers to technology education and empower individuals in underserved communities, unexpectedly closed its doors.

Despite this setback, the impact of Bitwise on Bakersfield's tech scene remains significant. The organization's mission to activate human potential through the tech industry inspired many local initiatives that continue today.

While Bitwise events are no longer available, the tech community in Bakersfield has rallied to fill the gap. New meetups and conferences have emerged, hosted by various local tech groups and companies.

These events still provide excellent networking opportunities for tech enthusiasts and professionals. Some popular gatherings include:

1. Tech Talks hosted by local startups
2. Coding Workshops organized by community colleges
3. Networking Mixers sponsored by tech companies
4. Hackathons coordinated by university tech clubs

To make the most of these networking opportunities, consider these strategies:

• *Research the event* and its organizers beforehand
• *Prepare a brief introduction* about your skills and interests
• *Have your LinkedIn profile updated* and ready to share
• *Engage actively in discussions* and ask thoughtful questions

Despite Bitwise's closure, the spirit of community building it fostered lives on.

Many former Bitwise employees and partners have started their own ventures, contributing to a resilient tech ecosystem. As Charles Lopez, a former Bitwise portfolio company member who now runs FrystUp, says:

"The connections we made through Bitwise were invaluable. We're now working to keep that collaborative spirit alive in Bakersfield's tech community."

To stay informed about current tech events, follow local tech groups on social media and join online forums focused on Bakersfield's tech scene.

By actively participating in these events, you'll expand your professional network and contribute to the ongoing growth of Kern County's tech community, proving that the spirit of innovation in Bakersfield is stronger than any single company.

California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB) hosts several career fairs throughout the year, offering great networking opportunities for tech enthusiasts. In 2024, CSUB's Career Education and Community Engagement (CECE) department will be hosting fairs each semester, including a promising Career Expo.

These events typically attract a diverse range of employers, from tech giants to local startups, providing numerous networking possibilities. To make the most of these fairs, consider these preparation tips:

• Research participating companies beforehand.
• Prepare a 30-second elevator pitch to introduce yourself.
• Bring at least 20 copies of your resume to hand out to prospective employers.
• Dress professionally - business casual is recommended.

According to CSUB's Career Development Center, students who attend career fairs are 63% more likely to secure internships or full-time positions compared to those who don't.

To boost your chances of success, follow up with connections within 48 hours of the event. The CSU Career Services offer resources like resume clinics, practice interviews, and networking events to help you prepare.

They also provide online listings of internships and job positions, which can be super helpful.

For a broader perspective, consider attending the Kern County Career & STEM Expo on April 26, 2024, at the Career Technical Education Center.

This free event focuses on building career and STEM awareness for tomorrow's workforce, offering another great chance to connect with local employers.

Remember, networking is a two-way street.

It's not just about what you can gain, but what value you can bring to the table. By approaching career fairs with this mindset and utilizing the resources available, you'll stand out and make lasting impressions in Bakersfield's growing tech scene.

Don't forget to check out CSUB's online events calendar for the most up-to-date information on upcoming career fairs and networking opportunities!

LinkedIn is a game-changer for tech professionals in Bakersfield, with a massive local tech community. To make the most of it, use the Search bar at the top of your homepage to find and join relevant groups.

Look for keywords like "Bakersfield tech," "Kern County IT," or "Central Valley developers." Active groups include "Bakersfield Tech Professionals" and "Kern County Software Engineers." Once you're in, follow these networking hacks:

• Optimize your profile with tech-specific keywords
• Engage regularly by commenting on posts
• Share valuable content about Bakersfield's tech scene
• Connect with group members, personalizing each request

Studies show that active group members are way more likely to land career opportunities.

Try this engagement strategy:

Focus on meaningful contributions to stand out. If you're unsure which groups you're part of, check your profile's "Groups" tab.

Remember, you can always leave a group if it's not a good fit. For local tech events, check out the Technology Council of Kern Meetups.

These in-person networking opportunities can seriously boost your LinkedIn connections. With consistent effort and smart engagement, you'll become a key player in Bakersfield's tech scene, opening doors to exciting opportunities.

Volunteering at local hackathons like Code Kern County is a game-changer for tech enthusiasts in Bakersfield. These events are not just about coding; they're all about making connections and leveling up your skills.

Hackathons bring together people from different backgrounds, breaking down silos between teams like Sales and Engineering.

It's pretty cool how you can showcase your talents to senior leadership and potentially influence your career path. According to HackerEarth, a whopping 86.9% of developers join hackathons to learn new skills, while 61.5% are in it for the networking.

If you're looking to get involved, check out websites like Devpost or join the Bakersfield Software Development Group on Meetup.com. To make the most of these events, come prepared with an elevator pitch and be ready to engage in team projects.

Participating in hackathons can lead to real-world problem-solving opportunities and even project exposure to potential employers or investors.

It's not just about the coding; it's about unleashing your creativity and pushing your boundaries. Volunteering in tech can boost your confidence, improve your public speaking skills, and make your resume stand out in the job search.

So, whether you're a coding wizard or just starting out, hackathons are a fantastic way to dive into Bakersfield's tech scene and create some awesome connections along the way.

Twitter is a game-changer for connecting with Bakersfield's tech pros, offering direct access to industry insights and networking opportunities. To level up your Twitter game, try these strategies:

• Use hashtags like #BakersfieldTech or #KernCountyIT to find local tech discussions.
• Engage regularly by retweeting interesting content from Bakersfield tech influencers and adding your own comments.
• Share valuable info about the local tech scene to show you know your stuff. Key accounts to follow include @BakersfieldTech, @CSUBakersfield, @KernEconDev, and @BitwiseBako.
• Ask thought-provoking questions like "What's the biggest challenge in Bakersfield's tech industry right now?" or share industry news with your take.
• Don't forget to congratulate others on their achievements - it's a great way to build connections. Remember, being real is crucial.
• Use Twitter as a search engine to find relevant people and communities in Bakersfield's tech scene. Filter results by "Top" or "Latest" to get the most relevant info.
• Also, check out who's retweeting or responding to tweets you find interesting - it's a goldmine for discovering new connections.
• Consistency is key, so keep showing up and providing value. By doing this, you'll build a solid network that could lead to awesome opportunities in Bakersfield's growing tech world.
• Don't be afraid to slide into someone's DMs after you've built a rapport - just make sure your message is specific and shows you've done your homework!

Subscribing to tech-related newsletters in Bakersfield is a game-changer for staying in the loop with the local tech scene. The Bakersfield Tech e-Newsletter has become a go-to resource, hitting over 5,000 subscribers since its 2018 launch.

Bakersfield.com offers a range of newsletters covering everything from local business news to entertainment, helping you get a pulse on the city's overall vibe.

For those looking to level up their tech skills, Bitwise's expansion to Bakersfield is opening up new opportunities for learning and networking.

They're not just about attracting big tech companies; they're empowering local entrepreneurs and creating a tech ecosystem right here in the Central Valley. The benefits of tapping into these resources are huge:

• Stay informed: You'll be the first to know about local tech events, job openings, and industry trends.
• Make connections: Attend newsletter-promoted events and meet other tech enthusiasts face-to-face.
• Boost your career: Many subscribers have landed new gigs through these newsletters.

To really make the most of these opportunities:

• Attend featured events and meetups
• Check out job postings and reach out to hiring managers
• Connect with local startups for potential collaborations

Whether you're looking to build your skills, find a new job, or just geek out with other tech lovers, these resources are your ticket to the heart of Bakersfield's tech community.

The Hub of Bakersfield, situated at 1701 18th Street, is a game-changer for tech professionals looking for a vibrant work environment. Since its 2019 launch, this 5,000-square-foot space has become a hotspot for innovation, offering flexible memberships from $150/month.

It's not just a workspace; it's a community catalyst. The Hub's mission to revitalize downtown Bakersfield aligns perfectly with the tech scene's growth.

With a 92% member satisfaction rate and 78% reporting increased productivity, it's clear why it's becoming the go-to spot.

The Hub isn't alone in Bakersfield's coworking revolution.

Places like Regus Business Center, MESH Cowork, and WorkSpace Bakersfield collectively offer over 15,000 square feet of shared workspace, each with its unique vibe.

These spaces are more than just desks and Wi-Fi; they're incubators for success. A whopping 68% of members report improved professional networks, 60% feel more creative, and 50% achieve better work-life balance.

To really crush it in these spaces, follow these strategies:

1. Attend community events: The Hub hosts about three weekly events. Engaging in these can help you meet like-minded professionals.
2. Hang out in shared areas: Spending time in communal spaces increases your chances of casual networking.
3. Jump into skill-sharing sessions: Participating in these sessions can help you learn new skills and meet professionals who share your interests.

As networking guru Joseph White puts it, "Treat coworking like a community, not just an office. Chat, help out, and be open to teamwork."

The Hub stands out with its tech-focused perks: 24/7 high-speed Wi-Fi, four bookable meeting rooms, bi-weekly tech workshops, and monthly startup mentoring sessions.

By tapping into these coworking spaces, Bakersfield's tech pros can plug into a thriving ecosystem of innovation and collaboration, seriously boosting their networking game and career opportunities.

Don't forget to check out Nucamp's tips on effective job hunting strategies to make the most of these networking opportunities.