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how to transition to tech?

how to transition to tech?

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Subject: Career question for you

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Fadi’s Answer

Hello Wood!
Many people successfully transition to tech from non-technical backgrounds..

Being in that field myself, I would advise to break down thoughts into steps and try to work progressively towards the end goal

IMHO, you should first start by identifying your area(s) of interest as tech is broad!

just to name few: Software Development (web, mobile..), data (science, analytics, big data..), cybersecurity, cloud/devops…

Once the field that interests you identified, start learning the fundamentals.

Everyone is different so you can pick whatever method you feel more comfortable with (books, online courses…)



try to work towards something specific by following a learning path (again the reason tech is broad and things move quickly)



this is, is my opinion, the most important part of it:

Try to learn by doing!
Start small by applying the concepts you learned and progressively building bigger projects until you feel comfortable doing so.
This way, you will gain experience and create some sort of a portfolio (depending on the field you choose)



From that point on, it’s going to be about networking, joining communities, keeping up with the trends…
and most importantly try to learn how to talk about it from both a technical and non technical perspectives

Finally, tech evolves quickly and it’s a continuous journey, so keep learning new skills and Enjoy it !
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Hartley’s Answer

Tech is a vast field, so I recommend researching the specific area you'd like to explore. Roles within the tech industry can vary greatly, from technical positions like software development and cybersecurity to non-technical roles such as consulting and project management.
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Josh’s Answer

Hi! I work for a software/tech company and I work in Sales Development and Marketing as a team lead/manager.

Transitioning into tech might seem like a big leap, but it’s often more about reframing your current skills than starting from scratch. My own journey has been grounded in leveraging my background in client development, sales strategy, and leadership to excel in roles that bridge business and technology. For example, my experience mentoring teams, analyzing data to refine strategies, and collaborating across departments (marketing, product, and customer success) directly prepared me for roles requiring cross-functional alignment and strategic thinking in tech. Many of these skills—like building trust with clients, managing pipelines, and training teams—translate seamlessly into positions like customer success management, sales engineering, or product management.

I started out working at a suit shop and then was able to latch on to an opportunity as an SDR (Sales Development Rep. They're also sometimes called BDRs). I didn't need a ton of previous experience for the role as I was still in college when I landed my first position in the field.

For someone transitioning, I’d recommend focusing on identifying transferable skills and supplementing them with targeted learning. Platforms like Coursera, freeCodeCamp, or Udemy are great for picking up technical skills like sales coaching, analytics, or CRM tools, which are often in demand. Networking is also critical—reaching out to people in roles you’re interested in can provide valuable insights and potential mentorship. Above all, don’t underestimate the value of your existing experience; many tech companies value diverse perspectives, especially when paired with a willingness to learn and adapt, like I said, I didn't have any previous field relevant experience before my first role! Sometimes it's about being willing to learn and be coachable.

My own experience has shown that the transition doesn’t happen overnight but comes with persistence and a focus on continuous growth. If you have specific questions or want advice on a particular role, feel free to ask—I’d be happy to share what’s worked for me!
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Takieaa ReyFaun’s Answer

Hello Wood

I'm Miss Takieaa and tech is a great career field. Following are some ideas about transitioning to a tech career. Also, I will include the top technical universities and careers to choose from and their yearly pay. I hope the information is a blessing for you.

To transition into a tech career, you can:
Develop relevant skills
Learn technical skills that complement your existing expertise. You can take online courses, enroll in coding bootcamps, or earn certifications.

Highlight transferable skills
Emphasize skills from other fields that are relevant to tech, such as verbal and written communication, collaboration, and mindful listening.

Network
Reach out to your network for job leads and recommendations. You can also follow tech experts on social media, volunteer for a tech company, or get involved in open-source projects.

Consider an internship
Look for an internship or related role.

Be open to starting at the bottom
Don't be afraid to start at an entry-level position. Some entry-level IT jobs include:
Help desk analyst
PC technician
NOC technician
Software developer
Cybersecurity technician
Front-end web developer
Quality assurance (QA) analyst
Database developer

Some of the top universities for engineering and technology include:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Ranked as the best university in the world for engineering and technology overall

Stanford University: Ranked second in the world for engineering and technology

University of Oxford: Ranked third in the world for engineering and technology

University of Cambridge: Ranked fourth in the world for engineering and technology

University of California, Berkeley (UCB): Ranked among the top engineering schools in the US

Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech): Ranked among the top engineering schools in the US

California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Ranked among the top engineering schools in the US

Purdue University--Main Campus: Ranked among the top engineering schools in the US

Carnegie Mellon University (Carnegie): Ranked among the top engineering schools in the US

University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell): Ranked among the top engineering schools in the US

Some of the highest-paying tech jobs include:
Engineering manager: Average salary of $203,500, and requires a bachelor's degree

Technical program manager: Average salary of $174,000, and requires a bachelor's degree

Principal software engineer: Average salary of $244,500, and requires a bachelor's degree

Machine learning engineer: Average salary of $206,000, and requires a bachelor's degree

IT vice presidents and C-suite executives: Some of the highest-paid IT jobs in the US

Computer network architect: Average base salary of $128,136

Information security analyst: Average base salary of $112,875

Wood, I hope the information I provided blesses you in your transition to a technical career. Have a great life!

Miss Takieaa
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Colleen’s Answer

Look into applying to LaunchCode for free tech training. They also help place you at paid apprenticeships. This is how I transitioned from education to data analysis.
https://www.launchcode.org/
Best wishes to you!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Hello Wood!

How to Transition to Tech

Transitioning into the tech industry can be a rewarding journey, especially given the vast opportunities available. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this transition effectively.

1. Identify Your Area of Interest

The tech field is broad and encompasses various domains such as:

Software Development: This includes web development, mobile app development, and software engineering.
Data Science and Analytics: Focuses on data analysis, big data technologies, and machine learning.
Cybersecurity: Involves protecting systems and networks from digital attacks.
Cloud Computing/DevOps: Centers around cloud services management and software deployment practices.

Understanding where your interests lie is crucial as it will guide your learning path.

2. Learn the Fundamentals

Once you’ve identified your area of interest, start learning the basics. There are numerous resources available:

Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or edX offer courses tailored to various tech fields.
Books and Tutorials: Depending on your preferred learning style, books can provide in-depth knowledge about specific topics.

Focus on foundational concepts that are essential for your chosen field.

3. Practical Application through Projects

Learning by doing is one of the most effective ways to solidify your understanding. Start with small projects that apply what you’ve learned:

Build simple applications or websites if you’re interested in software development.
Analyze datasets using tools like Python or R if you’re leaning towards data science.

As you gain confidence, progressively tackle more complex projects. This not only enhances your skills but also helps you build a portfolio that showcases your work.

4. Networking and Community Engagement

Networking plays a vital role in transitioning to tech:

Join Online Communities: Engage with platforms like GitHub, Stack Overflow, or LinkedIn groups related to your field of interest.
Attend Meetups and Conferences: These events provide opportunities to meet professionals in the industry and learn from their experiences.

Building relationships can lead to mentorship opportunities and job referrals.

5. Develop Transferable Skills

Many skills from non-tech backgrounds can be valuable in tech roles:

Skills such as project management, communication, problem-solving, and analytical thinking are highly sought after.

Identify these transferable skills within your current experience and highlight them when applying for jobs in tech.

6. Continuous Learning

The tech industry evolves rapidly; therefore, continuous education is essential:

Stay updated with the latest trends by following industry news through blogs, podcasts, or webinars.
Consider obtaining certifications relevant to your field (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect for cloud computing).

This commitment to lifelong learning will keep you competitive in the job market.

7. Prepare for Interviews

When you’re ready to apply for positions:

Practice common technical interview questions related to your field.
Be prepared to discuss both technical concepts and how your previous experiences relate to the role you’re applying for.

Mock interviews can be beneficial for building confidence.

By following these steps diligently, you can successfully transition into a fulfilling career in technology.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:

1. Coursera

An online learning platform offering courses from top universities worldwide across various subjects including technology-related fields.

2. Udemy

A global marketplace for learning and teaching online where users can find courses on nearly any topic including programming languages and software development techniques.

3. LinkedIn Learning

A professional development platform that provides video courses taught by industry experts covering a wide range of topics including business skills relevant to technology careers.

God Bless You, Richly!
James Constantine,
The Little Old Aussie Battler.
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Patrick’s Answer

Wood, please know that transitioning to a career in tech can be a rewarding and transformative experience, whether you're switching fields from a non-technical role or advancing within a tech-related domain. The tech industry is diverse, with opportunities in software development, data science, cybersecurity, product management, and more, making it an excellent choice for individuals seeking dynamic and high-growth career paths. Here’s an approach that could help you:

- Start by identifying transferable skills from your current role that may be valuable in tech. For example, if you have strong analytical, problem-solving, or project management skills, these can be leveraged in areas like data analysis or product management. Additionally, consider what specific areas of tech interest you most, whether it's coding, cybersecurity, cloud computing, AI, or UX design. This will help you focus your learning and tailor your transition strategy.

- Building the technical skills required for your desired role is key. There are numerous resources to help you learn the necessary skills, such as:
- Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer a wide range of tech-related courses, from beginner programming classes to advanced topics in machine learning, data science, or cloud architecture.
- Bootcamps: Coding bootcamps like General Assembly, Flatiron School, and Le Wagon offer immersive, intensive training programs designed to equip you with the technical skills needed for specific roles (e.g., software development, web development, data science).
- Certifications: Many tech roles, such as cybersecurity or cloud computing, offer certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Google IT Support Professional Certificate) that can demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.

- Practical experience is essential in tech. Start by working on personal projects, contributing to open-source projects, or doing freelance work. Building a portfolio of projects that showcases your abilities will be crucial when applying for jobs. Platforms like GitHub allow you to share your code and collaborate with others. Additionally, internships, even unpaid or part-time, can provide valuable hands-on experience and help you build a professional network in the tech industry.

- Building a strong network can accelerate your transition into tech. Attend tech meetups, industry conferences, and events (many of which are now virtual), where you can meet professionals, recruiters, and potential employers. Additionally, seek out a mentor—someone with experience in the field who can provide guidance, feedback, and career advice. Platforms like LinkedIn and professional communities (e.g., Women Who Code, Tech Meetups) are great ways to connect with individuals in your desired field.

- When you're ready to apply for roles, update your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight your technical skills, relevant projects, and certifications. Focus on showcasing how your previous experience, whether in a different field or within tech, aligns with the job requirements. Also, consider writing blog posts or creating video content about your tech learning journey, which can help establish your personal brand and demonstrate your passion for the industry.

- Tech interviews often involve both technical assessments (e.g., coding challenges, problem-solving tasks) and behavioral questions. Be prepared to demonstrate your problem-solving approach, technical knowledge, and ability to work in a team. Practice coding challenges on platforms like LeetCode, HackerRank, or Codewars. If you're transitioning into non-technical roles (e.g., product management, data analysis), be prepared to discuss your understanding of the tech industry, the tools commonly used in the field, and your ability to collaborate with technical teams.

- The tech industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay informed about new technologies, tools, and trends. Follow tech blogs, podcasts, or YouTube channels, and engage with online communities to keep learning. Transitioning into tech can be challenging, but persistence and continuous improvement will pay off. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks, and keep refining your skills and knowledge.

Wood, I believe that by following these steps and remaining dedicated, you can successfully transition into the tech industry and position yourself for long-term success. Whether you're looking to become a developer, data scientist, or tech entrepreneur, the opportunities are vast and the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow.
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Beatriz’s Answer

Transitioning into tech is not as difficult as some may make it out to seem. I am someone who transitioned from Industrial Engineering into tech.

What did I do?

I started researching what I could do in tech with the knowledge that I already had.
I started looking at tech companies.
I started looking at the requirements that tech companies have when recruiting.
I started researching jobs that caught my interest.
I started speaking with others who work in tech in the positions that I was researching to get a better understanding of what this field was like.
Having gathered the information from the points above, I started editing my CV to cater to the positions that sounded interesting to me.
I started applying and sending my CV to tech recruiters on LinkedIn.
Apply even if you think that you may not 100% qualify! There are a lot of companies that will give you the learning opportunity.
Take on a healthy amount of interviews, these are good practice!
Repeat the process until you find a job that you like!

I transitioned from working on the production floor of a manufacturing plant as a Process Engineer to working as a Support Engineer for Oracle.
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