Transitioning into tech can be daunting without the right tools and knowledge, and it requires that you acquire new skills or polish the existing skills you have. Before you begin the transition, you will need to consider why you want to change careers or add a new career and be sure it’s not a problem that you can correct at your current job, it should be more of an interest or desire. Once you have thought about it, you can explore your options.
What does Tech Mean?
According to Britannica, Tech is the application of scientific knowledge to the practical aims of human life. To fully transition, you will need to get one or more tech skills. Tech skills are specific knowledge required for tech careers, and can be grouped into 2;
1. Technical Skills: Technical skills are skills that require coding and programming languages like Python, JavaScript, C++, and R.
2. Non-technical skills are also known as soft skills that do not require hands-on coding and programming skills. For example, organizational skills, and communication skills.
Careers in Tech
Careers in tech leverage computers and information technology to solve problems. Each tech role requires a specific set of skills or knowledge and the demand for these roles may vary based on technology change and trends. There are various tech careers, however, here are 5 careers you might be interested in.
1. Software Developer:
Software Developers are computer programmers who design, create, and maintain software for applications and systems. Software Developers, analyze and improve the software to meet the user’s needs. The skills required to become a Software Developer are programming skills, knowledge of operating systems, database knowledge, and analytical skills.
2. Data Scientist:
A Data Scientist is responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to help make better decisions. In other words, a data scientist uses data to understand and explain processes around them. They use statistical methods, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization techniques. Skills required to be a data scientist include programming skills, knowledge of statistics, mathematics, data analysis, and visualization skills.
3. Cyber Security Specialist:
Cyber Security Analysts or specialists are responsible for protecting the software. They protect computer systems, networks, and data from unauthorized access, theft, or damage. They work to prevent cyber-attacks and hacking. The skills required for this are knowledge of operating systems, network security control, and programming skills.
4. DevOps Engineer:
DevOps Engineers bridge the gap between a software engineer and an operations team. They are responsible for server administration, optimizing and maintaining an organization’s software. Skills required include project management skills, coding and scripting, and server administration.
5. UI/UX Designer:
UI/UX Designers also known as User Experience Designers, create the user interface for a variety of products such as websites and mobile apps. The required skills include proficiency in design tools such as Adobe XD, and Figma, and knowledge of coding languages such as HTML, and Java.
6. Product Manager:
A Product Manager is a person who identifies the customer’s needs. They focus on product strategy to create, sell, and get feedback on a particular product or service. Skills needed to be a Chef de produit include communication skills, planning, technical, and operations skills. Understanding market research and user experience are also important skills needed.
6 Tips to Help You Transition into Tech
1. Research: When transitioning into tech, it is important to do your research in other to find the right career for you. Learn about the various tech industries, to understand better the different tech sectors and what the current trends and job opportunities are for each industry.
2. Identify and Define Your Interest: After you have researched the tech industry, you need to determine which area of tech you are interested in. You can start by assessing your present skills and identifying the skill set required for the tech career you are interested in.
3. Learn New Skills: Once you have decided on a tech career, you need to learn some new skills. You do not necessarily have to get a degree but explore various learning resources. Also, find out about certifications in your desired tech field and go for them. Certifications will make you more credible and marketable.
4. Build a portfolio: Start working on different personal projects online. By doing this, you will have more hands-on experience to build your portfolio. Upload your projects in an online repository like GitHub, and optimize your LinkedIn profile.
5. Network: Networking is key to transitioning to tech. you may start by maintaining a strong online presence, engaging with the tech community to show your work, attending tech events and conferences, and participating in discussions to expand your network.
6. Keep Learning: As the saying goes, “Change is the only constant thing in life”. Tech is always evolving. You will need to continue to learn new skills and tools. Keep up with new technologies so that you will not be left behind.
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