A career change is often framed as a daunting and challenging prospect, but tech experts are in a unique position in that their vast knowledge and skills are readily transferable to other jobs and industries. The digital age means that your skills will very much be in demand at organizations across the globe, whether in a tech-focused role or a job such as teaching or management. And if you are among those who want to make it to the field of IT consulting, there are several important aspects that you need to consider.
There are many reasons why a career change may be preferable. You could be experiencing burnout with your current role and require a new direction to feel fulfilled and content. The stresses of your job could also be taking their toll if you are in a complex and demanding position in a business that is not fully prepared for the digital world. You may also desire a new career if you want to reposition yourself to take advantage of the ever-changing digital landscape. Mobile, cloud and data are key drivers for change, and workers require new skills to keep pace with them. Here are five career options that you could consider.
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Software Engineering
A software engineer typically creates programs according to the user’s needs. They are the ones who work behind mobile and desktop applications. A degree that is closely related to computer science can be qualified as a software engineer. You also need to be excellent in solving technical issues. As you improve your coding and engineering skills, you can apply for a higher position in the tech industry. This can open opportunity for a higher salary as well. The salary rate of a software engineer can reach up to $120,000 depending on your level of expertise and location.
Technical writing
Writing code is a core aspect of many tech jobs, but you may be equally adept at technical writing and the process of turning documents with in-depth IT language into more comprehensible articles for clients. These documents can range from corporate white papers and manuals to patents and business plans. Your knowledge and experience of all things tech should enable you to stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs, and with the right exposure and work volumes, a lucrative career is readily attainable. You could also become your own boss and opt for a freelancing and contracting career, which is generally desirable for talented tech experts.
Teaching
Teaching is one of the most fulfilling and rewarding avenues open to tech experts, as they will potentially be able to change lives by informing and educating students and preparing them for a career in tech. Teaching is also ideal if you want to attain a better work and life balance, as it is relatively stress-free, and you will have long vacations throughout the year. There are an ever-growing number of professional institutes that are eager to hire skilled IT workers, so there has never been a better time to make the switch.
A tech background will give you several options to pursue. You could become a Technical Trainer, which will require you to plan, conduct and evaluate computer training via webinars, workshops and other digital and offline resources. You should think about attaining the CT++ Certification for tech teaching roles, as it will add credibility to your standard. Whether you want to focus on IT or pursue another subject entirely, a doctor of education degree is also recommended, as it will prepare you for all academic, administrative and professional positions in public, private, civil and educational institutions.
Management
When considering a career change, it is best to opt for a new direction that uses your tech expertise in some form. Management is a great option, as you will be able to oversee IT projects from inception to conclusion using your vast knowledge and skill sets. You could also act as the public spokesperson or Head of Tech when interacting with clients and customers. It may be preferable to return to education to attain a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or add other project management certifications that can be gained from reputable agencies to your resume to improve your credentials for top roles. In terms of pay rates, management is one of the more lucrative options available to tech experts.
Software quality analyst
Your tech credentials can easily be applied to nice tech roles such as a software quality analyst. This job is basically quality assurance and the process of reducing errors throughout the development cycle of software. Common tasks include undertaking internal quality audits, approving QMS documents and identifying and resolving problems. A DQS Certification will show employers that you have the ability to perform this role sufficiently.
Bonus
Game programming
Video game development is another rewarding career change option for tech experts. These roles require software engineering skills and a knowledge of computer simulation and graphics. Your tech expertise should give you a foundation from which to build on in this industry, so begin by pursuing game design in your own time. You can then opt for a bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer engineering if you want to work at a major studio as a game programmer.
These are just a selection of the vast career choices available to you as a tech expert. You could also, for example, focus on helping struggling industries with digital transformation strategies or join technical consultancies. Forging a new path for yourself may seem difficult, but keep in mind that every employee will value your tech skills and knowledge.
