Breakout Sessions
Job Networking Sessions
Our free networking events are designed to help Triangle professionals build meaningful connections, expand their professional circles, and discover new career opportunities. Whether you’re actively job searching or simply looking to grow your network, this community provides a supportive space for professionals in transition, particularly in IT, software development, project and product management, network engineering, business analysis, QA, and related fields.
Beyond networking, TTN offers expert-led breakout sessions designed to equip job seekers with valuable skills and strategies to navigate today’s competitive job market. These sessions, led by local industry professionals and career experts, provide actionable insights and hands-on guidance to help attendees strengthen their job search approach and position themselves for success in the Raleigh-Durham tech community. Through these engaging discussions, participants gain not only knowledge but also new connections that can help open doors to their next career opportunity.
Flowing Value & Getting Stuff Done (GSD)
Facilatator: John Ruppel, TYIIR Institute
In today's fast-changing and unpredictable world—often described as VUCCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Conflictive, Ambiguous)—employers are looking for professionals who not only perform their roles effectively but also contribute to the organization's financial success, commonly measured as EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization). Through my experience working with individuals and leaders across industries, I have found that success consistently comes down to two key principles: flowing value to the customer and getting things done.
During this session, we will explore these essential concepts and how they align with what employers are truly seeking. You’ll have the opportunity to reflect on your current approach, compare it with industry expectations, and identify actionable steps for your own professional growth.
We’ll start with quick introductions to set the stage, followed by a discussion on the frameworks behind flowing value and getting things done. I’ll share insights into how today’s most successful professionals navigate key disruptions—AI in data and technology, Agile methodologies reshaping workflows, and the demand for real-time decision-making in a rapidly evolving workplace. We will also cover the "translation mechanism," a crucial skill for bridging communication gaps between hands-on teams and C-suite executives.
The majority of our time will be dedicated to active conversation. Each participant will focus on one aspect of their professional development, engaging in collaborative discussions and receiving peer feedback. This interactive approach will ensure that you walk away not just with new insights, but with practical strategies to refine your skills and enhance your career trajectory.
Beyond the Resume: Elevate Your Digital Presence and Stand Out in Tech
Facilitator: Tara Lynne Groth, taralynnegroth.com
In today’s competitive job market, having a strong resume and LinkedIn profile is just the beginning. To truly stand out, you need to build a digital presence that positions you as a thought leader and attracts the right opportunities. This session will explore how blogging can showcase your expertise, the latest trends in search engine optimization to help your content get noticed, and the power of getting published to establish credibility in your industry.
Whether you’re looking for your next role or aiming to build authority in your field, this session will give you actionable strategies to take your career visibility to the next level.
The Power of Strategic Networking: Creating Win-Win Connections That Open Doors
Facilitator: Josh Stubbolo, Family Legacy Financial Solutions
Networking isn’t just about collecting contacts—it’s about building meaningful relationships that create opportunities for everyone involved. As a tech professional in transition, the right connections can lead to job referrals, mentorship, collaborations, and even unexpected career opportunities. But how do you network in a way that feels authentic, adds value to others, and ultimately helps you land your next role?
In this interactive session, we’ll dive into the art of effective networking and how to turn conversations into career-boosting opportunities. You’ll learn how to approach networking with a mindset of mutual benefit, build genuine connections that go beyond just "asking for a job," and leverage your existing network in ways you may not have considered. We’ll also discuss practical strategies for reaching out to new contacts, following up in a meaningful way, and positioning yourself as a valuable connection—whether online or in person.
Through guided exercises and group discussions, you’ll practice key networking techniques, refine your elevator pitch, and gain confidence in engaging with others—whether at industry events, on LinkedIn, or in casual conversations. This isn’t just another talk about networking; it’s a hands-on experience designed to give you actionable strategies you can use immediately.
If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to approach networking or struggled to make the right connections, this session will give you the tools and confidence to build relationships that can transform your career. Join us and discover how a simple conversation could lead to your next big opportunity!