Navigating Your Path: Tech Careers for All Backgrounds

“How do I transition into tech?” – something that I am often asked. First, let me acknowledge that breaking into the tech industry can feel intimidating or overwhelming, especially if you don’t come from a traditional technical background. Many people assume they need to be avid coders to succeed, but tech is more than just coding—there are opportunities in project management, business analysis, product management, UX design, and more. Tech also spans different sectors from finance to healthcare to hospitality. As someone who has spent the past 18 years in tech and now serves as a Director at a Fortune 500 company in the healthcare technology sector”, I know firsthand that with the right strategy and support, anyone can make the leap into the industry.

Beyond breaking into the industry, there’s another conversation I commonly have: How do we ensure that tech is an industry where everyone—regardless of race, gender, disability, or background—can thrive? While diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) have become hot topics in tech over the past several years; despite progress, the industry still struggles with representation and equity. Women, people of color, individuals from non-traditional backgrounds, and other underrepresented groups often face barriers to entry and advancement. As a leader, I am grateful to have the opportunity to create workplaces where diverse talent can grow, lead, and innovate. I consider this a privilege, as I am passionate about supporting the next generation and continuing to help others transition and develop in technical careers..

My Journey Into Tech

Remember how I said, it’s possible to enter tech without coding background? Well, that’s my story in a nutshell. I was a pre-med student at Emory University with aspirations of becoming a neurosurgeon, but sometime between the junior and senior year of my undergraduate studies, I decided to change my path. I knew I still wanted to work in the healthcare sector but became interested in the business and operations side of healthcare. Fast forward to the end of my senior year, and I managed to secure my first “grown-up job” with a healthcare tech company. That was the start of my journey into tech.

Over the past 18 years, I’ve taken the scenic route—working in software implementation, product management, project management, and technical support. Every transition and career progression reinforced the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and advocating for myself and others. Today, I lead an implementation team that consists of Solution architects, interface analysts, tech delivery leaders, project managers, and implementation consultants. Each has a unique skill set and some are more technical than others, but they all belong in the technology industry.

How You Can Transition into Tech

If you’re looking to break into tech, here’s my advice:

 1. Identify Your Transferable Skills
Many skills from other industries translate well into tech. Strong communication, problem-solving, leadership, and analytical thinking are essential in roles like program management, customer success, and implementation. Evaluate what skills you have that you’re already excelling at and begin to search for roles that align with those skills.

2. Gain Relevant Knowledge
You don’t need a computer science degree to break into tech, but learning the fundamentals helps. Online courses, certifications, and boot camps (such as Google’s UX Design Certificate or AWS Cloud Practitioner) can help build credibility and knowledge. Furthermore you can pursue undergraduate or graduate studies with a tech focus.

3. Network and Find Mentors
Networking is key. Engage with tech communities on LinkedIn, attend industry events, and seek mentors who can offer guidance. Many professionals are willing to share their experiences and provide insights. If you come from an underrepresented background, connecting with affinity groups can provide additional support and networking opportunities. 

4. Get Hands-On Experience
If you’re switching careers, gaining practical experience is crucial. Work on side projects, contribute to open-source initiatives, freelance, or take on tech-adjacent projects in your current role to build your portfolio.

5. Apply with Confidence
Don’t let job descriptions deter you. If you meet 60–70% of the qualifications, apply! Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and transferable skills, even if they weren’t gained in a tech role.

Conclusion 

Transitioning into tech isn’t just possible—it’s achievable with persistence and the right approach. You belong in tech, not just for the skills you bring, but for the diverse perspectives that will shape the future of technology. While individuals work to break into the industry, companies must also do the work to make tech a place where all talent can thrive, innovate, and lead. If you’re looking to make the leap into tech, I encourage you to go for it. If you’re already in tech, let’s commit to making it a space where everyone has an opportunity at success.