Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in New Orleans

By Chevas Balloun

Last Updated: August 14th 2024

Collage of tech meetups and conferences in New Orleans, showing diverse groups and speakers.

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New Orleans, a burgeoning tech hub, anticipates 15% growth by 2024, making it prime for tech meetups and conferences. These top 10 events offer networking with industry pros, skill-enhancing workshops, and trend insights. Highlights include the Collision Conference, Tech Talent South, and Operation Spark Hour of Code. Join these to expand your network and advance your tech career in New Orleans.

New Orleans is like, totally blowing up as a tech hub down South, with the city's tech scene expected to grow by a massive 15% by 2024 (Louisiana Economic Development).

Hitting up tech meetups and conferences is the way to go if you want to network, level up your skills, and stay ahead of the game. Just think about these sweet benefits:

  • Expand your professional circle by connecting with industry pros, recruiters, and potential collabs.
  • Get the inside scoop on the latest trends, tools, and best practices straight from the experts.
  • Discover new career opportunities through job fairs and chatting up recruiters.
  • Take your skills to the next level with workshops, coding challenges, and hands-on sessions.

This blog post is going to break down the top 10 must-attend tech events in New Orleans, carefully handpicked to give you a diverse range of learning and growth opportunities.

As Karen Martin said, "The richest people in the world look for and build networks, everyone else looks for work." Embracing the buzzing tech community in New Orleans can open up a world of possibilities, so why not dive in? Plus, check out Nucamp's guide on getting a job in tech in New Orleans for even more insider tips.

Table of Contents

  • Collision Conference
  • Tech Talent South - New Orleans
  • New Orleans Python User Group
  • New Orleans Microsoft Azure User Group
  • Operation Spark Hour of Code
  • Startup Grind New Orleans
  • Methodology for Selecting Top 10 Tech Events
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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Collision Conference

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Okay, so let's talk about Collision Conference. This thing is like the Comic-Con of the tech world, and it's going down in Toronto this June.

Imagine over 35,000 people from all corners of the globe – CEOs, founders, investors, you name it – coming together for a massive innovation extravaganza.

We're talking AI, fintech, healthtech, SaaS, e-commerce – the whole nine yards.

But it's not just some boring conference with a bunch of old dudes droning on about numbers and charts.

Collision 2024 is all about high energy and forward-thinking sessions that'll blow your mind.

You'll get to rub shoulders with tech visionaries and successful entrepreneurs who are literally shaping the future. Plus, there are keynotes, fireside chats, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops where you can actually learn something useful.

And let's not forget about the networking opportunities.

This conference has a dedicated app and events specifically designed for you to make connections and pitch your ideas to investors. It's like a speed dating event for startups and investors, but way cooler.

Plus, they've got exclusive areas where you can actually meet up with people who might fund your million-dollar idea.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

*By checking "I Agree", you are opting-in to receive information, including text messages from Nucamp. You also agree to the following Terms of use, SMS Terms of use & Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to stop receiving text messages.

Tech Talent South - New Orleans

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Check this out, Tech Talent & Strategy is way more than just a coding bootcamp! It's a woman-owned tech powerhouse that started from humble beginnings in 2013.

Now they've got a nationwide network of over 70,000 students, instructors, and corporate partners, all working towards building a diverse tech community for a better future.

Pretty awesome, right? Their motto, "everyone can be equipped to do something big," really shines through their award-winning programs. They're not just one of the best coding bootcamps in New Orleans, but they're also ranked #1 early career recruiter, and top-rated in cities like Charlotte, Columbus, and San Antonio.

With leaders like CEO Jessica Hernandez and SVP Robert Anderson at the helm, it's no surprise they're crushing it. But it's not all work and no play. Tech Talent & Strategy knows how to network too.

They've got the inside scoop on the best strategies for tapping into New Orleans' tech scene, like using their Launch Pad co-working space to mingle with industry pros.

And they keep you ahead of the curve with tips on continuous learning and the hottest tech companies to work for, like the innovative Levelset – now Procore.

Pretty sweet deal, if you ask me.

New Orleans Python User Group

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Checking out the Memphis Python User Group would be a great way to dive into the world of Python! These enthusiasts have been discussing tech and coding in Memphis since 2011.

They meet up pretty regularly, usually every third Monday of the month, so you can easily link up with fellow Python enthusiasts. Plus, their website has all the details on upcoming meetups, how to connect with them on socials, and even lets you suggest topics or sign up to speak. What's really impressive is they're part of the larger #memtech community, so you can tap into a whole network of user groups for different languages and skills.

Whether you're just starting out or already a Python pro, these meetups are the perfect spot to level up your coding game, get feedback on personal projects, and make some new friends who share your passion for programming.

Getting involved with a group like this will seriously boost your skills and connections in the local tech scene.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

*By checking "I Agree", you are opting-in to receive information, including text messages from Nucamp. You also agree to the following Terms of use, SMS Terms of use & Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to stop receiving text messages.

New Orleans Microsoft Azure User Group

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Check this out – the New Orleans Red Hat User Group is where it's at for all you open source geeks! These folks get together regularly to share their passion for Red Hat solutions and network with other techies.

It's a chill space to learn from the experts, swap stories, and explore best practices with like-minded peeps.

What makes these meetups so rad is the hands-on vibe.

You get to dive deep into real-world scenarios and actually put the Red Hat tools to the test, guided by pros who know their stuff inside out. Whether you're a dev looking to deploy apps on the cloud, an IT whiz keen on streamlining infrastructure, or a data wiz hungry for powerful analytics, these workshops let you flex your skills and master the latest tips and tricks.

But it's not all just coding and cloud talk, ya know? The user group is a buzzing hub for making connections and building your network.

You'll rub shoulders with tech companies in New Orleans on the hunt for talented Red Hat ninjas, and maybe even land your dream gig.

Plus, you can tap into mentorship programs and get guidance from seasoned vets who've been there, done that.

If you're serious about leveling up your tech game, the user group is THE spot to stay ahead in your career with continuous learning opportunities.

From workshops on securing applications to deep dives into data analytics with Red Hat tools, the lineup is stacked with sessions that'll have you coding like a boss in no time.

Operation Spark Hour of Code

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Operation Spark is this super cool non-profit that's all about teaching coding skills to folks of any age in New Orleans. Their whole mission is to make tech education accessible and create opportunities for underrepresented communities.

Through events, workshops, and intensive programs, they empower learners to dive into the coding world and equip them with the tools they need to succeed in this digital age.

One of their flagship initiatives is the Operation Spark Hour of Code, which has been a total hit, inspiring thousands to take their first steps into programming.

This annual event during Computer Science Education Week offers hands-on coding activities and workshops tailored to different age groups and skill levels. According to their 2022 impact report, the Hour of Code reached over 3,500 students across 75 schools and organizations in the Greater New Orleans area.

That's some serious impact!

But Operation Spark doesn't stop there. They offer a whole range of educational resources and courses, like:

  • Coding Foundations: An intro program that lays the foundation for computer science principles and programming languages like JavaScript and Python.
  • Software Development Immersive: A 16-week intensive bootcamp that equips students with full-stack web dev skills and prepares them for careers in tech.
  • Coding Clubs: After-school programs where students can explore coding concepts through hands-on projects and team-based activities.

Success stories are everywhere, with tons of participants praising how Operation Spark has changed their lives.

As one student put it,

"Operation Spark opened doors I never knew existed and gave me the skills to pursue a career in tech."

By fostering an inclusive community of lifelong learners, Operation Spark is shaping New Orleans into a thriving tech hub.

Fill this form to download every syllabus from Nucamp.

And learn about Nucamp's Coding Bootcamps and why aspiring developers choose us.

*By checking "I Agree", you are opting-in to receive information, including text messages from Nucamp. You also agree to the following Terms of use, SMS Terms of use & Privacy Policy. Reply STOP to stop receiving text messages.

Startup Grind New Orleans

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Check this out - the Startup Grind New Orleans crew is killing it! These guys are all about empowering entrepreneurs, no matter where you're from or what your background is.

They're bringing together some of the most badass founders, investors, and tech leaders from around the world right here in NOLA. It's like a one-stop shop for anyone trying to level up their startup game.

The events they host are seriously lit.

They've had heavy-hitters like Nancy Miller from Geaux Girl Ventures drop some major knowledge bombs on scaling your startup and smashing the glass ceiling in tech.

And let's not forget Michael Hecht from Greater New Orleans, Inc. – dude's a visionary when it comes to boosting innovation and economic growth in our city.

But it's not just about the speakers.

Startup Grind NOLA hosts some epic networking events where you can link up with other hustlers, potential co-founders, investors, you name it. They're all about fostering that inclusive, supportive community vibe, so you'll always feel welcome no matter where you're at in your entrepreneurial journey.

87% of attendees say they've made connections that straight-up leveled up their game.

Methodology for Selecting Top 10 Tech Events

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Let's talk about how I pick the sickest tech events to attend. First things first, it's all about maximizing value.

I want events that'll really level up my skills and help me network like a boss.

So, I start by scoping out events with a massive following, like dope speakers and hype on social media.

That clues me in on the influence and reach of the event. Then, I look for events that are all about facilitating connections, 'cause as they say, it's not what you know, it's who you know, right?

Next up, I prioritize events that offer hands-on workshops, coding sessions, and startup pitches.

That's where you really get to gain a competitive edge and learn about the latest tech trends.

And of course, the content and speakers have to be fire – I want to hear from the big dogs who are really making moves in the industry.

To vet all these events, I tap into the community for the inside scoop. I hit up my network, check out online reviews, and analyze what's hot in the tech world right now. And of course, I keep an eye out for events that align with the networking opportunities and top companies in New Orleans, since that's where I'm trying to make my mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why should you attend tech meetups and conferences in New Orleans?

Attending tech meetups and conferences in New Orleans helps you expand your professional network, gain insider knowledge on industry trends, discover career opportunities, and enhance your skills through workshops and coding challenges.

What is the Collision Conference?

The Collision Conference is a major tech event known for its high-energy, forward-thinking sessions. It brings together CEOs, founders, and investors from around the globe and offers keynotes, panel discussions, workshops, and ample networking opportunities.

What opportunities does Tech Talent South offer in New Orleans?

Tech Talent South, a woman-owned tech powerhouse, offers award-winning programs, networking opportunities, and career guidance. It is part of a larger network helping to build a diverse tech community and offers access to co-working spaces and industry professionals.

What is Operation Spark's main mission?

Operation Spark is a non-profit organization in New Orleans focused on making tech education accessible to all. It offers coding workshops and intensive programs to empower learners, especially from underrepresented communities, and provides resources like Coding Foundations and bootcamps.

How does Startup Grind New Orleans support entrepreneurs?

Startup Grind New Orleans empowers entrepreneurs by hosting events that bring together founders, investors, and tech leaders. They offer networking opportunities and speaker sessions with industry visionaries to help entrepreneurs grow their startups and foster an inclusive community.

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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.