Technology is everywhere — from buying a milk packet to booking a cab and ending the day with Alexa. With this growing demand, tech careers offer better pay, job security, and growth. If you’re considering a switch to tech, this blog will help you get started.
1. Assess Your Technical Aptitude
Before making the switch to a tech career, it’s crucial to understand your technical aptitude. Let me share my own experience — I come from a Chemical Engineering background, and when I had to take coding in my first year, I quickly realized that it wasn’t my strength.
Despite the vast opportunities a tech career offers compared to Chemical Engineering, I knew I wouldn’t excel in it because my technical aptitude wasn’t strong. On the other hand, I loved Chemical Engineering and performed well in it.
So, if you’re confident in your technical abilities and believe you can thrive in the tech world, only then take the plunge. Once you switch, you’ll need to stay committed — going back and forth will only cost you precious time and money. Think it through and make an informed decision.
2. Gain Technical Knowledge and Skills
Once you’ve decided to switch, the next step is to acquire the right technical skills and knowledge. Fortunately, many startups now offer structured programs to help you make this transition.
You’ll also get one-on-one mentorship from industry experts working at Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Paytm, and IIT alumni. Plus, you’ll work on real-world projects.
3. Stand Out in a Competitive Job Market
A common misconception is that joining a training program with guaranteed placement means your job search will be easy. But the reality is, competition is fierce. Everyone joining these programs gains the same technical skills — so how do you stand out in interviews?
Having worked at a similar startup that helps students transition to data science, I’ve seen firsthand that communication skills make all the difference.
Beyond top-notch tech skills, you need to clearly articulate why you’re making this career switch, why you’re interested in the role, and how you can contribute to the company. Most students struggle here.
4. Gain Relevant Experience
One thing that makes career-switching candidates stand out is relevant work experience.
In interviews, I found that candidates with even 3–4 months of tech-related experience were far more convincing than those with years of experience in unrelated fields like construction.
Along with pursuing certification programs, try to gain hands-on experience through independent projects or internships.
This not only builds your portfolio but also makes companies more confident in hiring you — ultimately boosting your chances of landing a higher salary package.
5. Do Thorough Research
Switching from a core engineering field like Chemical, Mechanical, or Civil to tech is a big shift. It’s almost a complete 360-degree turn from your original path. That’s why proper research is essential.
Understand the career opportunities available, the difference in salary and growth between CS graduates and career switchers with short-term training, and the fee structures and terms of training programs. Only sign up when you’re fully informed and prepared for what lies ahead.
