I want to learn about the digital tech industry
What is the "Digital" Tech Industry?
The digital technology industry is a vast and dynamic field where people use computers, robots, and smart devices to create innovative solutions and improve our lives. It involves designing and building devices like smartphones and tablets, writing software that powers these devices, and developing video games to play.
By joining the tech industry, Indigenous peoples in Canada can bring their unique values and perspectives to shape the future of technology. We are able to use modern tools and communication methods to preserve our cultures, share knowledge, and address challenges.
Technology can help us connect, educate, and advocate for our rights and the protection of our lands and resources. It’s a way for Indigenous communities to actively engage and make a positive impact in the world of technology while staying true to the values of respect for the natural world and interconnectedness.
BENEFITS OF THE DIGITAL TECH INDUSTRY
Remote Work
The technology industry has many benefits that make it a great field to consider. One advantage is that you can work remotely, which means you can work from anywhere as long as you have internet. This gives you more flexibility and control over your schedule.
Low-barrier Learning
What’s also cool is that getting into the tech industry doesn’t always require a lot of formal education. There are tons of courses offered for Indigenous peoples but also folks can learn skills through the likes of YouTube.
Amazing Pay
Another benefit is that tech jobs often pay well, which can help you have a comfortable life and financial security. Entry level jobs in Canada start at $45,000 year and more experienced positions can be higher than $150,000 annually!
The Different Sectors of Digital Tech
Folks can find careers within:
- Video Game - Designer and Developing video games
- Media creation - Editing photos and videos
- Graphic Design - Designing art the web or in person
- Robotics - Building and programing robots
- AI - Programming and learning Artificial Intelligence
- Cybersecurity - keeping technology safe from malicious attacks
- Hardware - Building computer or computer infrastructure
- Environment - Renewable technologies that provide stewardship for our lands
How to enter the Digitial Tech Industry
Having completed a general high school education is great start. There are tons of different directions to take from there:
Indigenous Programs
There are programs that can teach the basics of digital technology through programs rooted with cultural teachings. ComIT and INDIGital both are for Indigenous youth and people who are looking increase their knowledge with digital technologies through the likes of development and design. These programs are often a month long and can lead to taking advance courses after completion.
Boot Camps
Bootcamps are immersive training programs designed to teach participants the skills needed to enter the technology industry. These boot camps typically focus on teaching coding and programming languages, web development, data science, cybersecurity, or other specialized areas within the tech field. They usually take 3 months to complete and participants will receive certification.
The First Nation Technology Council covers the cost of bootcamps for Indigenous folks and hosts them through the institutions of Lighthouse Labs and BrainStation in BC.
College and University
You can receive certificates, diplomas, and degrees within the technology sector through many of our BC colleges and universities. Camosun College, University of British Columbia, BC Institute of Technology, Nichola Valley Institute of Technology, and University of Northern British Columbia all offer a variety of different studies that can get you situated in the technology industry. Such as a certificate in UX design, a Diploma in digital marketing, and a degree in computer science.
Click here for list of all BC Universities and Colleges offering courses to get you ready for the digital tech sector
Learn Through YouTube
YouTube is not only a place for watching funny videos, but it’s also a treasure trove of knowledge and learning. Whether you want to learn how to play an instrument, draw amazing artwork, code your own video game, or even perform cool science experiments, there are countless YouTube channels that can teach you step-by-step. You’ll find enthusiastic and talented creators who break down complex topics into easy-to-understand videos. So, if you’re curious and ready to learn, grab your device, head to YouTube, and type in “how to” video and begin learning.
Need funding?
There are lots of supports to get started within the tech industry. Check out our favorites!