Jobs in tech

[rainbowzebra05]

Hi,

I'm looking at retraining in something IT based. I used to code as a hobby and still dabble occasionally, but I'm rusty and out of date. HTML, CSS and basic PHP is my limit atm! I learned online about 10 years ago.

I've got no formal IT qualifications (not even a GCSE...) and have a degree in an unrelated subject. I've got an overpayment from a past student loan so can't attempt anything that requires student finance. I'm able to partially self fund training, but to the tune of about £50 a month or less so it certainly isn't going to manage a degree! I'm currently on maternity leave so have a year out of work and want to make the most of it, though not my first baby so I'm also realistic about my ability while sleep deprived!

I'm wondering what jobs out there other people are doing without having formal IT qualifications, or with those quals that can be done while in a trainee type role? I'm starting to learn python and react online as these seem to be requested in job adverts for software devs, but I'm a bit lost as to what other options are out there in regards to roles (and the realities of those roles).

I'm hoping for a job that's not too "people-ey", I'm someone who like problem solving, routine, logic. I'm autistic and best at task based roles instead of those where you're jumping about a lot. I'm ok at putting a face on for customer service but absolutely hate it and don't get on well with large offices because I don't understand the social side of it all so end up as the sore thumb! I've got experience artistically, am competent with photoshop, and with the basics of electrical hardware through theatre experience. Also have disabled children so need some degree of flexibility when it comes to jobs.

Is anyone in a role they'd recommend looking into please? I'm obviously on google too, but you can't beat actually speaking to people who're actively doing the roles involved.

I currently work in HR, which as the list above will likely show really isn't a good fit! My dream as a teenager was to become a theatre technician but it's not compatible with bringing up children so it was shelved. Im happy working either directly on a computer, or with my hands in a technical manner however.

Any suggestions or feedback would be very appreciated. There's so much out there and im struggling with working out what the realities of various roles are!

Have a look on YouTube at

Data Analyst
DevOps
Solution Architects
Tester

Tech roles that involve engaging with people will be more PM, Delivery Manager, Change Managers, BAs, Product Owner, PMO.

Lots of these roles can be done remotely with occasional travel to an office.

Some cloud certification never hurts. Microsoft AZ 900 and AWS cloud practitioner are entry level qualifications and both offer free training from their website. Microsoft also do free online training sessions which you can sign up for and sometimes offer a free exam voucher as well. Both cloud offerings are crying out for python programmers...FutureLearn offer lots of free online python training as well.

That's fantastic thank you, I hadn't come across the cloud certifications so I'll start on that and will look into the roles mentioned. I feel like I've been looking so much that I've only confused myself, so having direction will help massively!

Future learn looks fab too, it looked like it was paid initially so I think I might well have overlooked it previously! Thank you!

You could use your HR background as a route in to work in HR software. Testing is very task oriented. Bigger tech firms have return to work (post maternity) schemes that might be open to you.

You don’t say where you are based but it might be worth you searching for tech communities and events where you are. We hosted Codebar events at my previous workplace - practical sessions for those underrepresented in tech, and I know people who have gone on to find jobs with the connections they made. Potentially helpful way to meet employers and get a sense of what sort of opportunities are out there for you.

Good luck with your adventure!

www.codebar.io

Ps I’m in project management in a technical field. Lots of people that I work with don’t have formal training, more that they pursued their passion and maybe got work-sponsored training along the way

Maybe have a look at something like this?

www.qa.com/qa-talent/become-a-tech-specialist/

We've just taken on a cohort of entry level technology staff from a scheme like this, some in software development, others in operations and tech support. It's not for everyone, but worth a look.

Cloud stuff is a good shout above, and AWS (Amazon Web Services) have a free tier you can use to get practical experience (other cloud platforms do too, but I'm not so familiar with those)

There's loads of free resources and some free qualifications out there.

ISC2 are offering a free Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) course and exam which is a formal recognised cert from a globally recognised accrediting body.

If you're looking at coding/dev work then look up OWASP top 10 and make sure you have a good understanding of those vulnerabilities and how to avoid them when developing software.

Get onto Twitter and start looking up coding and software development then following a load of accounts. You'll get lots of suggestions and start seeing information and recommendations for training content, companies that are hiring, new roles and specialisms that are coming into the sector.

This thread might be useful.

Women are far more likely than men to have taken an unconventional route into tech, and I think it often makes them better at it as a result, having a wider experience and perspective.

Hi Op,

... a bit late, but worth mentioning these websites

I moved into technical writing some years ago. Free resources at
Udemy.com,
Coursera,
and edx.org.

Not just for tech, but lots of other professions too.

All the best x