Breaking into the tech industry requires more than just technical skills. It's about networking, pitching yourself, and sharing what you're learning and building.

It is only week three (!!) and our full-time web development students in Greenville were brave enough to take the opportunity to practice their networking skills at NextGEN’s Venture Summit.

One of our students, Joe Gagnon, shared about the experience on LinkedIn:

What a Wednesday! Spent the day at the NextGEN Greenville Venture Summit at Judson Mill, absorbing all the secrets to startup success (while secretly wondering how these people make it look so easy). I was there with the Carolina Code School crew—Patisela Alegria, Sean R Reid and my classmates—soaking in a great keynote from Heather Hudson, COO of 9Round Kickboxing Fitness learning how to kick some serious RAS (iykyk). We got some solid tips on perfecting pitches and finding that elusive funding. The grand finale? Legendary mentor, investor and founder David Jones reminding us that relationships are the real currency in business. Big thanks to nextGEN Greenville for a day well spent, and here’s hoping we all remembered to take notes!

For career changers entering the tech industry, here are five key reasons to network in startup and business spaces:

Showcasing Transferable Skills

Networking allows career changers to highlight valuable skills from their previous careers, making it easier to connect those abilities to tech roles in a way that resonates with potential employers or collaborators.

Building Confidence

Career changers may experience impostor syndrome as they enter a new field. Networking with like-minded professionals in startups and business spaces helps build confidence through exposure, conversations, and validation from those who appreciate diverse experiences.

Creating an Entrepreneurial Mindset

Startups often emphasize agility, innovation, and wearing multiple hats. Career changers can learn this entrepreneurial mindset, which helps them stand out in tech roles that value initiative and flexibility.

Access to Unconventional Opportunities

Startups are often open to hiring individuals with non-traditional backgrounds, allowing career changers to break into tech through roles that value diverse experience.

Finding Mentors

Many tech entrepreneurs and professionals enjoy mentoring those transitioning into the field. Mentors can provide guidance, support, and advice to career changers and help them navigate challenges.

For career changers, networking in these spaces isn’t just about landing a job; it’s about finding the right opportunities that align with their unique background and new tech skills.

Thank you to NextGEN for providing our students with the opportunity to experience Venture Summit. What a unique opportunity to expand their knowledge and networks!

5 reasons networking with entrepreneurs can help you break into tech