Billings Tech Sector Generates $500M Annually, Expands Professional Development Programs

As Billings cements its status as a growing tech hub, the city’s educational landscape is rapidly evolving to bridge the gap between basic internet access and the specialized skills required for its expanding innovation sector. With the local technology industry growing seven times faster than the rest of the state economy, both public libraries and specialized educational programs are positioning themselves as critical infrastructure for the next generation of workers.

Building the Foundation: Access and Skill-Building

For many residents, the primary barrier to entry remains access. The Billings Public Library is actively working to dismantle these hurdles by providing free mobile Wi-Fi hotspots for checkout. Patrons can secure these devices via curbside pickup, available Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., ensuring that home internet connectivity-the essential prerequisite for modern remote work and study-remains within reach. This initiative complements the library's broader digital literacy suite, which includes free access to 34 languages through Mango Languages, art instruction via Creativebug, and professional courses through Universal Class. These resources require only a library card and an email address to register, effectively turning the library system into a low-barrier digital classroom.

Beyond the library, formal education is targeting specific age groups to foster long-term technical growth. Billings Public Schools has integrated a specialized Digital Literacy program for 6th through 8th graders at Ben Steele Middle School. Interested families can reach out to department contact Josh Haber at 406-601-1651 or via email at haberj@billingsschools.org for program details. For adult learners, Billings Adult Education offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes computer applications, Microsoft Office, keyboarding, and preparation for High School Equivalency Tests.

Networking and Industry Growth

The city's professional scene is experiencing a parallel surge in activity, centered largely around the Rock31 facility. Recurring events such as the monthly Billings Tech Meetup and the Bigskynet consortium-which focuses on AI development and meets on Tuesdays-provide platforms for networking and collaborative problem-solving. These efforts are further supported by the Montana High Tech Business Alliance, which facilitates the Montana Innovation Exchange quarterly series held at Big Sky Economic Development.

Looking ahead, the calendar is packed with high-level industry gatherings designed to keep the local workforce competitive. The INTERFACE conference, centered on Information Security and Business Continuity, is scheduled for August 11 at the Northern Hotel. In the coming year, the city will host the 2025 Billings Tech Career Expo, along with a planned tech hackathon focused on AI and digital innovation, backed by a recent $41 million federal grant. For those pursuing self-directed learning in the interim, national resources like DigitalLearn.org, Northstar Digital Literacy, Techboomers, and GCFLearnFree remain available to help individuals gain certificates and badges in essential fields like online safety, job applications, and email literacy.