1. What industries drive the tech job market in Tacoma?

The tech job market in Tacoma is primarily driven by the following industries:

1. Military and defense: Tacoma has a strong military presence, with Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) being one of the biggest employers in the area. The military relies heavily on technology for various operations, creating a high demand for skilled tech workers.

2. Healthcare: Tacoma is home to several major hospitals and healthcare systems, such as CHI Franciscan Health and MultiCare Health System. These organizations heavily rely on technology for managing patient records, telehealth services, and medical equipment, creating a demand for IT professionals.

3. Manufacturing: Tacoma has a growing manufacturing sector, with companies like Boeing and Alcoa having major facilities in the area. These companies rely heavily on technology for production processes and supply chain management.

4. Education: Tacoma is home to several colleges and universities, including the University of Washington Tacoma and Pacific Lutheran University. These institutions have a high demand for tech workers to support their IT infrastructure and online learning platforms.

5. Government: As the third-largest city in Washington state, Tacoma has a significant government presence with various departments and agencies that require tech professionals to maintain their systems and data.

6. Transportation: The Port of Tacoma is one of the largest shipping ports in North America, handling millions of tons of cargo each year. The transportation industry relies heavily on technology for tracking shipments, maintaining logistics operations, and managing inventory.

7. Telecommunications: Several telecommunication companies have a presence in Tacoma, including Comcast and Verizon Wireless. These companies need tech workers to support their infrastructure and customer service operations.

Overall, there is a diverse range of industries that drive the tech job market in Tacoma, providing opportunities for individuals with different skill sets and backgrounds.

2. Which companies or startups are actively hiring for tech positions in Tacoma?

Some companies or startups that are actively hiring for tech positions in Tacoma include:

1. Amazon – Technology company with a large presence in Tacoma, hiring for various positions such as software engineers, cloud architects, and data scientists.

2. Kaiser Permanente – Healthcare organization hiring for IT positions like application developers and system analysts.

3. Blackfret.com – Startup company focused on music streaming and social networking, currently hiring for front-end developers and UI/UX designers.

4. Green River College – Higher education institution hiring for IT professionals including web developers, database administrators, and support technicians.

5. Era Living – Senior living community with a technology focus, currently hiring for IT roles such as business intelligence analyst and help desk technician.

6. METCoE Technologies – Technology consulting firm specializing in government contracts, seeking candidates for software engineers and project managers.

7. AIM Aerospace – Manufacturer of aerospace components seeking tech professionals like automation engineers and machinists.

8. Optimum Energy LLC – Sustainable energy company looking for candidates with a background in computer science or engineering to fill roles such as software engineer and data scientist.

9. DAWSON Services LLC – Defense contractor with job openings for information assurance specialists and systems engineers.

10. Approach Enterprise Inc – Web design and digital marketing agency hiring web developers, graphic designers, and SEO specialists.

3. Are there opportunities for remote work within the Tacoma tech market?

Yes, there are opportunities for remote work within the Tacoma tech market. Many companies in the area offer remote work options, and with the growth of virtual teams and increased use of technology, remote work is becoming more common in the tech industry. Additionally, there are also several remote-only companies based in or with a presence in Tacoma that offer a variety of tech roles.

4. What types of roles are most in demand in the Tacoma tech market?

I. Software engineers/developers
II. Full stack developers
III. Data scientists
IV. Product managers
V. User experience (UX) designers
VI. Cybersecurity professionals
VII. Cloud architects/engineers
VIII. Mobile developers
IX. DevOps engineers

5. How does Tacoma’s cost of living compare to other tech hubs?

Compared to other tech hubs, Tacoma’s cost of living is generally lower. According to data from Numbeo, Tacoma’s overall cost of living index is 74.16, which is lower than Seattle (84.82), San Francisco (91.01), New York City (100.00), and Boston (88.34). This indicates that expenses such as housing, groceries, transportation, and utilities are typically more affordable in Tacoma compared to these other tech hubs.

However, it is important to note that the cost of living can vary greatly within each city depending on factors such as neighborhood and lifestyle choices. For example, while Seattle may have a higher overall cost of living compared to Tacoma, certain neighborhoods or areas within Seattle may be more expensive than others.

In terms of housing costs specifically, Tacoma tends to have lower rental and home prices compared to other tech hubs. According to Zillow data from July 2021, the median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Tacoma is $1,300 per month, while the median home value is $402,799.

Overall, while Tacoma may not be as expensive as other tech hubs in terms of cost of living, it is still important for individuals considering moving there for a tech career to research specific neighborhoods and budget accordingly based on their own personal circumstances and preferences.

6. Are there specific skills or languages that are highly sought after in the Tacoma tech market?

Some of the most in-demand skills and languages in Tacoma’s tech market include:

1. Software development: This includes programming languages such as Java, Python, C++, and JavaScript, as well as popular software development frameworks like React and Angular.

2. Web design and development: Professionals skilled in HTML, CSS, and responsive web design are highly sought after by companies looking to establish or improve their online presence.

3. Data analysis and data science: With the rise of big data, there is a high demand for professionals who can collect, analyze, and interpret large data sets. Knowledge of tools like SQL, Tableau, or R can be valuable in this field.

4. Cybersecurity: As cyber threats continue to evolve and grow in frequency, companies are investing more in cybersecurity measures. Individuals with skills in information security, network security, or ethical hacking are highly valued.

5. Cloud computing: Many companies are moving away from traditional on-premises infrastructure to cloud solutions like Amazon Web Services (AWS) or Microsoft Azure. Professionals with expertise in cloud computing platforms and services are highly sought after.

6. Mobile app development: As more people use mobile devices for work and personal use, the demand for mobile app developers has grown significantly. Proficiency in Objective-C/Swift (for iOS) or Java/Kotlin (for Android) is especially valuable.

7. User experience (UX) design: With user experience being a critical aspect of any digital product or service, UX designers who can create intuitive user interfaces that meet customer needs are highly desired.

8. Project management and agile methodologies: Companies value employees who can manage projects efficiently using agile methodologies like Scrum or Kanban to deliver high-quality products on time.

9. DevOps: DevOps professionals who bridge the gap between software development and IT operations are increasingly in-demand as companies seek to streamline their software deployment processes.

10.Tech sales/marketing: Aside from technical skills, companies also seek candidates with strong communication and sales/marketing skills to promote and sell their products and services.

7. Are there any major events or conferences related to tech that take place in Tacoma?

Yes, there are several major events and conferences related to tech that take place in Tacoma:

1. Northwest Tech Expo – This is an annual event that showcases the latest technology innovations and trends from local companies in the Pacific Northwest region. It also includes networking opportunities and workshops for professionals in the tech industry.

2. Tacoma Startup Week – This is a week-long event dedicated to supporting and promoting entrepreneurship and startup businesses in Tacoma. It includes panels, speakers, workshops, and networking sessions focused on the tech industry.

3. Techstars Startup Weekend Tacoma – This is a three-day event where participants pitch ideas, form teams, and develop prototypes for new businesses or products. It is open to anyone interested in entrepreneurship and the tech industry.

4. The Tacoma Innovation + Technology Expo (Tacoma iExpo) – This annual event brings together emerging startups with established companies from different industries to showcase their latest technologies, products, and services. It also features panel discussions, keynote speeches, and networking opportunities.

5. Economic Development Board South Sound Summit – This conference focuses on economic development in the South Sound region of Washington State, with a special emphasis on technology-related industries.

6. CascadiaJS Conference – This is an annual conference for JavaScript developers to share ideas, learn new skills, and network with fellow professionals from the Pacific Northwest region.

7. ACES Northwest Network Annual Summit – This event brings together leaders from government, business, education, and non-profits in the information technology sector to discuss strategies for growth and collaboration within the industry.

8. What is the average salary range for tech jobs in Tacoma?

The average salary range for tech jobs in Tacoma varies depending on the specific position and level of experience, but it typically falls between $60,000 to $120,000 per year. Some higher-level positions, such as software engineers or IT managers, may have salaries above this range. Additionally, certain industries or companies may offer higher salaries for tech jobs than others.

9. Are there any government or non-profit organizations offering tech jobs in Tacoma?

Yes, there are several government and non-profit organizations in Tacoma that offer tech jobs, including:

1. City of Tacoma – The City of Tacoma’s Information Technology department often has job openings for positions such as IT Analysts, Network Technicians, and Database Administrators.

2. Tacoma Public Schools – The school district occasionally has openings for positions like Web Developers, Applications Analysts, and Data Managers.

3. Pacific Lutheran University – PLU’s Information & Technology Services department offers various tech-related jobs on campus, including positions like Application Support Specialists and Desktop Support Technicians.

4. Pierce Transit – The local transit agency hires IT professionals for roles like Systems Engineers, Network Administrators, and Business Intelligence Analysts.

5. Metro Parks Tacoma – This organization occasionally posts job openings for IT professionals with skills in areas like web design and programming.

6. Washington State Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) – DSHS has an office in Tacoma that offers a variety of technology-related job opportunities related to social services and healthcare systems.

7. Non-Profit Tech Network (NPTN) – NPTN is a national network of non-profit organizations dedicated to helping other non-profits use technology effectively. They offer both paid jobs and volunteer opportunities in the tech field.

8. Technology Access Foundation (TAF) – TAF is a nonprofit focused on STEM education for underrepresented communities. They often have open positions in technology education and program management.

9. WorkSource Pierce – This government-run job search website includes listings from various tech companies in the Tacoma area, as well as government agencies that have tech-related jobs available.

10. How important is STEM education and training for local tech opportunities in Tacoma?

STEM education and training is extremely important for local tech opportunities in Tacoma. As the technology industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled workers in STEM fields will also increase. Having a strong STEM education and training program in Tacoma will help prepare students for these future job opportunities and ensure that they have the necessary skills to succeed in the tech industry.

Additionally, STEM education can also play a crucial role in attracting tech companies to Tacoma. Companies are looking for areas with a highly skilled workforce, and having a strong STEM education system can make Tacoma an attractive location for these companies to set up or expand their operations.

Furthermore, promoting and investing in STEM education can help bridge the current skills gap in the local tech industry. Many employers struggle to find qualified candidates for open positions, and having a well-trained pool of professionals in STEM fields can help meet this demand.

By prioritizing STEM education and training, Tacoma can position itself as a hub for technological innovation and create numerous job opportunities for its residents. It is essential for the city’s economic growth and development in the tech sector.

11. Are internships available within the Tacoma tech industry?

Yes, there are internships available within the Tacoma tech industry. Companies such as Microsoft and Amazon have internship programs in their Tacoma offices, and many local startups and smaller tech companies also offer internships to students or recent graduates. Additionally, there are various organizations and networking groups, like the Tacoma Tech Alliance, that provide resources for finding internship opportunities in the area.

12.Besides traditional software and IT positions, what other types of roles are available in the Tacoma tech market?

Some other types of roles available in the Tacoma tech market may include:

1. Project Management: As technology companies develop and implement new products and services, they require skilled project managers to oversee and coordinate these projects.

2. User Experience (UX) Design: This role focuses on designing user-friendly and intuitive interfaces for software, websites, or apps. UX designers work closely with developers and stakeholders to create engaging user experiences.

3. Data Analysis: With the growing amount of data being generated by businesses, there is a demand for professionals who can analyze and interpret this data to provide insights and inform decision-making.

4. Technical Writing: Technical writers are responsible for creating clear and concise documentation for software, products, or processes. They work closely with developers and subject matter experts to ensure technical information is accurately communicated to end-users.

5. Sales and Marketing: Technology companies often require salespeople to promote their products and services, as well as marketing professionals to develop effective advertising strategies.

6. Customer Support: As companies rely more on technology for their customer interactions, there is a need for customer support roles that can assist users with technical issues or questions.

7. Cybersecurity: As cyber threats become increasingly prevalent, there is a high demand for cybersecurity professionals who can protect businesses’ sensitive data from malicious attacks.

8. Quality Assurance (QA) Testing: QA testers are responsible for identifying any bugs or issues in software during development to ensure it meets quality standards before release.

9. Training and Education: Many tech companies offer training programs or education resources to help users understand and effectively use their products or services. Professionals with experience in training or education may find opportunities in the Tacoma tech market as well.

10. Business Analysts: These professionals play a critical role in gathering requirements, analyzing data, and providing insights that help drive business decisions related to technology implementation or improvement.

13.Is there a growing presence of big corporations establishing offices or headquarters in Tacoma?

Yes, there is a growing presence of big corporations establishing offices or headquarters in Tacoma. Some notable companies that have recently established a presence in Tacoma include Amazon, Kaiser Permanente, and Columbia Bank. Additionally, several major corporations such as State Farm, Boeing, and T-Mobile have expanded their existing operations in Tacoma in recent years. The city’s convenient location between Seattle and Portland, access to transportation infrastructure, and business-friendly environment are some of the factors attracting these big corporations to establish a presence in Tacoma.

14.What networking opportunities are available for tech professionals in Tacoma?

Some networking opportunities for tech professionals in Tacoma include:

1. Tacoma Tech Talks: This is a monthly meetup where tech professionals can come together to discuss latest industry trends, share ideas and network with each other.

2. Puget Sound Programming Python User Group (PuPy): This group organizes regular meetups and workshops for software developers interested in the Python programming language.

3. Tacoma.AI: This is a community of AI enthusiasts that hosts events and workshops related to artificial intelligence and machine learning.

4. Northwest Designer Craftsmen: This is an organization for designers and craftspeople, which also includes a tech-focused subgroup that organizes events and seminars for members.

5. Pacific Rim Underwater Robotics Competition: This annual competition brings together teams of students, educators, individuals, and companies to design, build, program, test and race autonomous underwater vehicles.

6. Washington Technology Industry Association (WTIA): This association hosts various events throughout the year that aim to connect tech professionals with industry leaders, investors, entrepreneurs and job seekers.

7. University of Washington Tacoma’s Tech Talks: These are free events that bring together local technology experts to discuss their expertise and advance knowledge-sharing within the community.

8. Tacoma Startup Happy Hour: A monthly happy hour event organized by the Titan Alpha Foundation providing an opportunity for tech entrepreneurs to connect with like-minded individuals in a casual setting.

9. Chamber of Commerce Events: The Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce regularly hosts networking events such as Business After Hours, Young Professionals Network events, and other business luncheons where tech professionals can make connections with other businesses in the area.

10 Tech Conferences/Meetups/Workshops: There are several conferences, meetups and workshops hosted throughout the year in Tacoma that cater specifically to tech professionals including TIDE Conference (a technology conference focused on innovation), Code & Coffee Meetup (a coding workshop for beginners), DevShop Meetup (for web developers) and many more.

15.How diverse is the job market for women and minorities within the Tacoma tech industry?

The job market for women and minorities within the Tacoma tech industry is relatively diverse, but there is still room for improvement. According to a 2019 study by the Brookings Institution, women make up 30% of the technology workforce in Tacoma, which is slightly higher than the national average of 28%. However, racial and ethnic diversity in the tech industry lags behind, with people of color making up only 19% of the workforce compared to the national average of 31%.

Furthermore, there are significant disparities among different tech companies in terms of diversity. Some companies have a more equal distribution of women and minorities throughout their workforce and leadership positions, while others have a significant underrepresentation. This can be attributed to various factors such as recruitment practices, company culture, and unconscious bias.

However, efforts are being made to promote diversity within the Tacoma tech industry. Organizations like Digital Equity Center Tacoma and Washington Technology Industry Association have initiatives focused on increasing access and opportunities for underrepresented groups in the technology sector. There are also networking events and conferences specifically targeting women and minorities in tech.

Overall, while there is still progress to be made, the job market for women and minorities within the Tacoma tech industry is relatively diverse compared to other industries. Companies are recognizing the importance of building a diverse workforce and taking steps towards creating more inclusive environments.

16.Are there any specialized training programs or bootcamps specifically geared towards preparing individuals for jobs in the Tacoma tech market?

Yes, there are a few specialized training programs and bootcamps that focus on preparing individuals for jobs in the Tacoma tech market. Some options include:

1. Code Fellows: Code Fellows offers an immersive 8-week coding bootcamp focused on full-stack development, mobile development, and cybersecurity. They also offer shorter workshops and classes on topics such as Python programming and web design.

2. iDEW: The Institute for Digital Engineering Wizardry (iDEW) is a non-profit organization that provides technical training to high school students in the Greater Seattle/Tacoma area. Their program focuses on teaching skills in software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity.

3. TechHire Apprenticeship Program: This program, managed by the Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC), provides hands-on training and apprenticeships in advanced manufacturing and information technology fields.

4. Tacoma Creates Creative Computer Programming Boot Camp: This free 12-week program offers basic coding skills to adults interested in pursuing careers in the tech industry.

5. General Assembly Seattle: General Assembly offers both part-time and full-time courses in web development, data science, UX design, digital marketing, and more at their Seattle campus.

Overall, these programs provide individuals with hands-on training and industry-relevant skills to help them land jobs in the growing Tacoma tech market.

17.What differentiates the culture and atmosphere of working at a local startup versus a larger established company in the area?

The culture and atmosphere of working at a local startup and a larger established company can be quite different. Some key differences may include:

1. Size and structure: Local startups are typically smaller in size and have a less rigid structure compared to established companies, which tend to be larger with more defined hierarchies.

2. Flexibility: Startups are known for being more flexible with work schedules and policies, as they are still in the growth stages and can adapt quickly to changes. Established companies often have more strict policies and processes in place.

3. Speed of decision-making: Startups tend to have a faster decision-making process as they are agile and can respond quickly to market changes. Established companies may have longer processes for decision-making due to bureaucratic procedures.

4. Hands-on experience: Working at a startup often means having more hands-on experience in various roles and responsibilities, as there are fewer employees wearing multiple hats across departments. In contrast, working at an established company may mean having a more specialized role with less cross-functional exposure.

5. Risk-taking vs stability: Startups are inherently riskier than established companies, which have already established their product or service in the market. This can lead to a more fast-paced environment where employees need to be adaptable and comfortable taking risks. Established companies may provide more stability and security for employees.

6. Company culture: The culture of a local startup is usually built from the ground up by its small team, whereas large established companies may already have an ingrained organization-wide culture that might be harder to change or impact.

7. Sense of ownership: Employees at startups often feel a stronger sense of ownership over their work as the company’s success is directly tied to their own efforts, compared to larger companies where individual contributions may feel less impactful.

8. Work-life balance: While startups can offer flexibility, they also often require long hours, intense time commitments, and potential weekend work due to their fast-paced nature. Established companies may have more regular work hours and a better work-life balance.

Overall, working at a local startup offers more opportunities for ownership, growth, and flexibility, whereas established companies may offer more stability and structure. The decision often depends on the individual’s priorities and preferences in terms of workplace culture and atmosphere.

18.How strong is the local talent pool for filling open positions within the Tacoma tech industry?

The local talent pool for filling open positions within the Tacoma tech industry is relatively strong.

While it may not be as large or established as tech hubs like Seattle or San Francisco, there are still several factors that contribute to a strong talent pool in Tacoma.

Firstly, there are several universities and colleges in the area, such as the University of Washington Tacoma and Pacific Lutheran University, that offer programs in technology and computer science. These institutions not only educate skilled workers, but also attract talented students who may choose to stay and work in Tacoma after graduation.

Secondly, many graduates from nearby schools often seek employment in tech companies located in nearby cities like Seattle. This creates a steady flow of talent into the region.

In addition to local education institutions, there are also various coding bootcamps and training programs offered in the area that produce skilled workers. These programs provide opportunities for individuals from non-tech backgrounds to enter the industry and add to the local talent pool.

Lastly, Tacoma has a growing entrepreneurial community with several tech startups emerging in recent years. This creates opportunities for professionals looking for job opportunities within the city’s tech sector.

Overall, while not as large as other major tech cities, Tacoma has a strong and diverse pool of talent that can fill open positions within its thriving tech industry. Companies looking to hire locally should have access to a wide range of skilled professionals with varying levels of experience.

19.What role do universities and colleges play in providing resources and access to technology job opportunities within Tacoma?

Universities and colleges play a crucial role in providing resources and access to technology job opportunities within Tacoma. They can offer students relevant education and training through specialized degree programs, courses, workshops, and internships that prepare them for careers in the rapidly evolving technology sector.

These institutions also provide access to state-of-the-art technology facilities, equipment, and software that allow students to gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills. Additionally, universities and colleges often have strong connections with local businesses and tech companies, which can lead to networking opportunities and potential job prospects for students.

Furthermore, universities and colleges can collaborate with local organizations and industry partners to create initiatives that promote innovation and entrepreneurship in the technology field. This could include hosting job fairs, hackathons, startup incubators, or other programs that connect students with real-world technology projects and employment opportunities.

Moreover, universities and colleges are increasingly offering resources such as career counseling services, resume-building workshops, interview preparation sessions, and alumni mentorship programs to assist students in their job search endeavors.

Overall, universities’ and colleges’ involvement in promoting technology job opportunities not only benefits individual students but also contributes to the growth of Tacoma’s economy by producing a highly skilled workforce that meets the demand for tech talent in the city.

20.Does current economic growth suggest an increase in demand for skilled workers within the Tacoma technology sector?

Based on current economic growth, it is likely that there will be an increase in demand for skilled workers within the Tacoma technology sector. As the economy grows, businesses tend to expand and invest in new technologies to stay competitive. This creates a greater need for skilled workers who can operate and maintain these technologies effectively. Additionally, advancements in technology often require a specialized skill set that can only be provided by skilled workers. Therefore, as the Tacoma technology sector continues to grow, there will likely be an increased demand for skilled workers to meet the needs of businesses in the industry.