Changing careers is a significant move, and often comes with a lot of questions. Are you considering a transition into the tech industry? Many people from diverse backgrounds successfully shift into tech without prior experience in the field. Here is a list of frequently asked questions and their answers to guide you through this process. 

Is it too late to change careers? Am I too old?

No, it is never too late to change careers. Many people transition into tech from different industries at various stages of life. Employers in tech often value skills and experience over age, making it a flexible and accessible field for career changers.

What is the average age to change careers?

While career changes can happen at any age, studies suggest that the average age for a career switch is between 30 and 40 years old. However, many people successfully transition into tech both earlier and later in life. Northcoders has helped people train for a tech career at a wide range of ages, from eighteen years old to their late fifties! 

What are some tech careers I can transition into?

There are many careers in tech, and some involve more coding than others. Typical software development roles involving coding include: 

• Web developer: Build and maintain websites using programming languages like JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. The focus is on creating user-friendly web pages.
• Full-stack developer: Work on both the front-end (user-facing interface) and back-end (such as servers and databases) of applications. These developers have expertise in multiple technologies and frameworks to develop complete applications.
• Data engineer: Design, build, and maintain data pipelines and infrastructure. Ensure data is collected, processed, and stored efficiently, often working with big data technologies and cloud platforms.

Do I need a degree to get into tech?

No, a traditional degree is not necessary to enter the tech field. There are many ways to learn software development, so tech employers tend to value practical skills over degrees. 

Whether you’d like to get into software development or data engineering, Northcoders will help you develop your skillset and portfolio with a focus on practical experience, as that’s what employers look for. 

How do I start learning the necessary skills to change to a tech career?

There are various ways to learn the tech skills you need. The most common ones are self-study, coding bootcamps, and university. 

Northcoders offers a free, self-guided coding basics course, as a taster to see if coding is for you. If it’s a good fit, you can join a bootcamp with live teaching and mentor support, to learn all the skills you need to start your first tech role in just a few weeks.

Do I need to quit my job to retrain into tech?

No. You can learn to code while keeping your current job with Northcoders’ Part-Time Bootcamp in Software Development. Its flexible schedule is designed to fit alongside your current life, whether you have a full-time job or caring responsibilities. In twenty weeks involving both live learning and self-study, you will learn all the skills you need to start a new tech role. You can find out more here. 

How long does it take to transition into a tech career?

It can take as little as a few weeks, but will depend on how you’re learning your new skills. With a coding bootcamp like Northcoders, you can retrain for your new career in tech in around 13 to 20 weeks, depending on your chosen course. The university route can take a few years, and self-learning will depend on your own pace and self-set schedule. 

How do I get my first job in tech?

To land your first tech job, you’ll need to learn relevant skills, usually through courses such as online bootcamps. You can then work on practical projects to develop your portfolio, through either your course, freelancing work, or open-source contributions.

It also helps to network with industry professionals via LinkedIn, meetups, and online communities. You can then prepare for technical interviews, identify transferable skills from your past work experience, and start applying for entry-level roles.

With a bootcamp like Northcoders, you will also receive career support tailored to the tech industry to help you land your first role.  

Is remote work common in tech?

Yes, remote work is very common in the tech industry. Many tech companies offer fully remote or hybrid work options, providing flexibility for employees. 

What skills do I already have that I can transfer to a new career?

Many soft and hard skills from other industries will be valuable in your new tech career. For example, skills in communication, collaboration, and creativity will be an asset no matter your industry.

Employers also value career changers for the different perspectives they bring to the table based on their previous work experience. If you reflect on your experiences and interests, you’re sure to find a lot of relevant skills, such as in problem solving and critical thinking, project management and organisation, or customer service and relationship management. 

Changing careers into tech is an exciting journey with many opportunities. With the right mindset, learning strategy, and persistence, you can successfully make the switch and build a rewarding career in the tech industry.