Tech bootcamp to be offered through new Loyola partnership
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Loyola University is partnering with online learning platform Springboard to offer virtual boot camps for people who want to transition into the growing tech industry.
Why it matters: New Orleans is leaning into the idea of the “Silicon Bayou” as a way to diversify its economy.
- The tech industry currently employs 2.9% of the metro's workforce and has a $2.1 billion economic impact, according to the 2023 State of the Tech Workforce.
What’s happening: Loyola and Springboard are launching data analytics and software engineering programs this fall.
- The online classes will teach front-end and back-end web development, along with tools like SQL, Python and Microsoft Power BI.
- The courses are self-paced and usually completed in six to nine months, according to Colin Lumsden, vice president of business development at Springboard.
- Tuition starts at $8,500, Lumsden said, with some $750 scholarships available. Loyola enrollment is not required.
The big picture: Leaders have been pitching the city to tech companies as a "low cost/high culture" alternative since at least 2010. The industry generally has high salaries — median of $75,000 annually — and requires little infrastructure compared with manufacturers and other industrial employers.
- It scored big wins with Gameloft, DXC Technology and GE opening offices in New Orleans in recent years.
- But, the three companies struggled, and the state clawed back thousands in incentives after they failed to meet local hiring targets.
Yes, but: There have been successes, with tech startups like Lucid, Turbosquid, Levelset and Geocent selling for big money.
- Cint bought Lucid for $1.1 billion in 2021.
What's next: Classes are open for enrollment until Aug. 28.