WordPress is constantly evolving and changing. It can be tricky to keep up, especially when you're behind a screen and discussions are determined by time zones.
It's so much more beneficial (and not to mention fun!) to learn, get up-to-date and discuss WordPress at your favorite local haunt and in real time.
Here's how to learn, discuss and keep updated on WordPress and with the WordPress community in the local Washington, DC area.
WP DC Meetup
WP DC Meetup is an active group in the Washington, DC area that regularly discusses all things WordPress. You can get the support and answers you need as well as see examples, too.
You can learn about WordPress as a Content Management System (CMS) and for blogging purposes while also learning how to develop themes, plugins and customizations. Networking is also a cornerstone of the meetings and often happens multiple times per event.
You can also get updated on the latest in the WordPress community in the Washington, DC area by following
WP DC Meetup on Twitter.
DC WP Developers Meetup
For developer-oriented discussions on WordPress, you can check out the
WP DC Developers Meetup. You can learn and discuss Advanced WordPress topics from theme and plugin development to using API's.
You can also network at events with your fellow colleagues in the WordPress community.
WordCamp DC
You don't have to spend countless hours planning, packing and travelling all over the world to go to a WordCamp. Not when there's one right here in Washington, DC. WordCamp DC is a yearly WordPress conference that has local people in the WordPress community speak on a wide range of WordPress-related topics.
Everyone is welcome no matter what their experience level may be and there's plenty of opportunity to learn about WordPress and the latest developments while also getting a chance to network and discuss WordPress with other attendees.
You can also find the
Materiell team there so feel free to say "Hi" and don't be shy as we love to talk about all things WordPress.
You can find details on the upcoming WordCamp DC on the
WordCamp website.
American Graphics Institute
There are introduction as well as advanced WordPress classes at the
American Graphics Institute that can help you learn or brush up on your WordPress skills while keeping you up to date on the latest changes.
Classes are held in Washington, DC and you can sign up as an individual or in a group. The instructor shares their screen with you for an immersive learning experience. You can also ask them any questions you may have as well.
Think Big Learn Smart
Think Big Learn Smart has a beginner WordPress course that teaches you how to create a website, maintain it and troubleshoot any issues that may arise.
While the course can be taken completely online, you can also learn in person in the Washington, DC location. When you attend the course in person, you also get breakfast, lunch, snacks and refreshments, a notebook and pen as well as other course materials, which are all included.
The course is also updated regularly so you can be sure you're learning the latest advancements in WordPress.
ONLC Training Centers
The
ONLC has quite a few different WordPress courses including introductory WordPress training. But there's also courses on theme and plugin development, WordPress E-Commerce with WooCommerce and SEO and Social Media Marketing with WordPress.
Courses are taught throughout the year in Washington, DC. Businesses can sign up their team or you can enrol as an individual with government training funds. They're able to work with programs such as Workforce Development (DWD), Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) on a state-by-state basis.
You can contact your local Workforce or TAA office and they can let you know if you're eligible. If you are, they will arrange the course for you with ONLC.
Wrapping Up
While the internet makes worldwide communication a snap, it doesn't replace in-person discussions. That's especially true when it comes to meeting with members of the WordPress community.
You can learn and share your experiences with other like-minded people. You don't even have to worry about time zones. Best of all, there are many local opportunities available in the Washington, DC area.
Have you ever attendend WordPress events or enroled in courses in Washington, DC? Do you plan on attending in the future? Feel free to share your experience in the comments below. If you do happen to go to WordCamp DC, make sure to give us a shout. You can also track us down on
Twitter,
Facebook or
Google+.
