Breaking into the Technology Field
I won’t lie; the technology industry currently faces a challenge with attracting new talent. This isn’t a new thing, though. I have known many individuals who had just graduated from college with degrees in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Information Systems, and thought it would be easy to find a job upon completing their academic studies. Sometimes it is, if you know the right people. Often, they struggle to get their careers started, though. Few will secure their dream job right out of school, and honestly, I would be concerned if that was all they had achieved in their careers anyway. For those getting started, here's a tip: try to secure a support or testing gig first.
Support work has always been a significant need for companies. While it is true that Artificial Intelligence systems are taking over some of this industry, it will still benefit a new person’s career to learn how to work with customers and clients on issues they have. The experience you receive will inform you on how to anticipate their needs in the future. Over time, you will begin to notice common patterns in the types of support that most people require. This will help you make informed decisions as you advance in your industry and improve your company for the better.
Testing jobs are similar, especially for new programmers. Many of the programmers I have met in my career who have come from quality assurance are among the most well-rounded programmers I know. They anticipate potential problem areas in their code before they even begin coding. This is a vital skill. It also allows them to predict how their code is testable in the first place, allowing them to explain it to new testers. It is cyclical in training new people. An experienced individual can effectively train someone who is just starting out.
No, these jobs do not make the “big bucks.” No one should expect that when starting in any industry. They do build a solid foundation of understanding of the industry, though, and will make you a more well-rounded contributor later in your career. It will also help you collaborate more effectively with other roles in the industry and enable you to make an informed decision on where you would like to go when you grow up.
By the way, this advice is not just for recent graduates. If you have left another industry and want to transition into technology, it can work in your favor. It will enable you to gain the industry experience you need to transition into your new career.
