When most people think of tech hotspots, areas like Silicon Valley and Seattle may come to mind. But anyone who keeps a pulse on technology will know that Nashville is at the forefront of a tech revolution – a great place for veterans too! Start-ups are springing up in the city like wildflowers, and large corporations are flocking here at a considerable rate, and it’s no wonder why. Several factors have contributed to Nashville’s emergence as a rising tech hub:
- Favorable Economic Climate: To put it simply, establishing a business in Nashville makes sense. The city’s cost of living is significantly lower than many other major tech hubs, enabling companies to maximize operational efficiency while enhancing their employees’ quality of life. This affordability not only attracts talent but also helps businesses stretch their budgets further. Additionally, Tennessee’s lack of a state income tax combined with pro-business policies incentivizes companies looking to invest and expand. With fewer tax burdens, businesses can reinvest in their growth and innovation.
- A pioneer in healthcare: Nashville has undoubtedly earned its reputation as the healthcare capital. Because the city is home to more than 500 healthcare companies, the environment is perfectly conducive to nurturing innovation in the industry. Many advancements in telemedicine, medical data analytics, and patient management systems have been spearheaded by local organizations and startups focusing on collaboration and cutting-edge research.
- Talent Cultivation: While several economic factors have set the stage for a tech revolution in Nashville, it’s the prioritization and commitment to developing talent that define the Nashville tech community. The city, along with local businesses and nonprofits, has thoughtfully invested in tech education, mentorship, and collaboration to truly empower tech professionals to succeed here: The initiative Tech into Nashville, a catalyst for community engagement; Greater Nashville Tech Council, which hosts workshops and networking events and offers a mentorship program exclusively for veterans; and Bunker Labs, an incubator for veterans entrepreneurs.
Why Veterans Are a Great Fit for Nashville’s Tech Scene
Veterans who have transitioned out of technology-focused military careers, such as Cyber Operations Specialists, IT Specialists, and Intelligence Analysts, likely recognize the lucrative positions awaiting them on the civilian side. However, those in other job roles who may not think they’re tech-savvy enough for a civilian tech job shouldn’t sell themselves short. Many skills from various positions translate seamlessly into the tech industry: adaptability, problem-solving, and teamwork. Additionally, veterans with security clearances bring a significant advantage to the table, particularly for roles in high-demand areas like cybersecurity.
And here’s the best part—you don’t need to be a coding expert or have a degree in computer science to become a competitive candidate in the tech job market. With a variety of certification programs and training courses available, veterans can gain meaningful skills in as little as a few months.
Nashville Tech Ed Opportunities: Enhancing Your Potential
Fortunately, Nashville offers a range of local educational opportunities for veterans looking to transition into tech. Local universities like Vanderbilt and Belmont and community colleges like the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) and Nashville Software School offer tailored support to veterans and provide training in areas like IT, cybersecurity, web development, data science, and more. Many of these institutions also participate in the GI Bill program, making it easier for veterans to pursue their education without financial burden.
For military members planning to transition into the tech workforce who don’t already possess a tech background, it’s highly advisable to take a proactive approach by obtaining relevant certifications, especially if you’re six months or more away from your transition. Earning these certifications can significantly enhance your marketability to potential employers. Many certification programs are available online, providing the flexibility to study at your own pace while still fulfilling your military obligations.
Here are some highly regarded certifications to consider:
- CompTIA Security+: A foundational cybersecurity certification covering basic network security and risk management.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): A globally recognized certification for experienced security professionals.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect: Ideal for veterans looking to work in cloud computing, a growing field in Nashville’s tech ecosystem.
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): For veterans interested in cybersecurity and ethical hacking roles.
- Project Management Professional (PMP): This certification is widely respected across industries for those who want to manage IT projects.
A Bright Future for Veterans in Nashville’s Tech Sector
When considering the career outlook for technology in Nashville, the numbers tell the story best. Here’s a glance at some key insights from a report by the MTSU Department of Information Systems and Analytics in collaboration with the Greater Nashville Technology Council, The State of Middle Tennessee Tech 2023.
- From 2017 to 2022, the number of tech jobs in Middle Tennessee grew by 17.0%.
- The projected growth rate for tech jobs in Middle Tennessee from 2022 to 2027 is 18.0%, compared to 11.0% projected national tech job growth.
- Median compensation for tech jobs in Middle Tennessee was $75,263 in 2022. While this salary is below the national median for tech jobs, it is 84.7% above the median compensation across all occupations in Middle Tennessee.
- In 2022, the region saw an average of 3,698 new monthly job postings across all tech occupations.
- The Business and Financial Operations Occupations group had the highest demand, with an average of 920 new unique monthly job postings in 2022.
If you’re interested in transitioning to a civilian tech career, now is the perfect time to embrace Nashville’s booming tech scene. The city offers an ideal combination of veteran-focused resources, a welcoming atmosphere, and abundant job opportunities tailored to those with military experience. It’s a perfect place to begin your next chapter!
