Changing Careers: Here’s Why You Should Consider a Career in Tech

Changing CareersMass layoffs. Inflation. A stalled economy. Downsizing. There are many troubling trends in the current economy.

But there is also a reason for optimism!

While a slow economy and layoffs are major concerns, there is a chance for motivated people to find excellent careers in technology.

For companies that want to boost productivity, allow for remote work, and become more efficient, technology will continue to be a core strategy. Every company, regardless of their industry, is now a technology company. And unfortunately for them, there is a massive shortage of tech talent.

Companies need tech professionals, but there simply aren’t enough to go around. 

You can take advantage of this situation. By learning new tech skills, you’ll prepare yourself for a career that is ready for the future. These jobs are less likely to be impacted by layoffs and also bring high salaries, numerous opportunities, and a healthy lifestyle.

Software Developer: The “Best Job in America” with Plenty of Opportunity 

Shifting to a new career takes time, energy, and commitment. (Although you’ll find that it can be exhilarating too!) So why should you put in the effort to become a technology specialist?

You’ll have the chance to work as a software developer, a profession that MarketWatch calls “the best job in America.” Looking at a variety of statistics and factors, including expected growth, income, stress level, and work-life balance, they determined that software development, which involves writing code and enhancing computer applications, is the best career in the country.

If you are considering a new career, job stability is likely an important factor. For many, knowing that jobs will be available is more important than overall pay. This is one reason why software development and other technology careers shine brightly; there are, and will be, plenty of available jobs. Computerworld reports that roughly 20% of job listings involve tech skills of some kind; roughly 15,000 jobs mention “AI” (artificial intelligence). In April of 2023, there were 21,176 job postings for software development.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the software developer profession will grow by 26% between 2021 and 2031, resulting in nearly 1.8 million people working in this career.

Changing Careers Doesn’t Mean a Four-Year Commitment

Changing careers, as we have mentioned, may seem like a massive effort. Many assume that you need to complete a large education, perhaps even a four-year degree, to be eligible for a new role in the job market.

Some alternatives are faster, more affordable, and require less commitment from your already-busy schedule. By completing one of Tech Elevator’s Coding Bootcamps, you can go from zero experience to job-ready tech skills in very little time. These bootcamps teach useful skills that include CSS, HTML, JavaScript, SQL, and other important coding languages that are used throughout the software industry.

Depending on the program you choose, you can be job ready in 14 to 30 weeks. That’s right, in less than four months, you can gain the skills needed to enter a career that has an annual median salary of over $120,000.

We have seen this program work for real people just like you. Let’s take a look at two examples of how people have improved their technology skills with Tech Elevator.

Tech Elevator’s Success Stories

Abigail Clery: Political Organizer to Associate Software Developer

In 2020, Abigail Clery was working as a political organizer, a temporary position that lacked daily challenges and excitement.

She decided to pursue a software career and, through her research, came to Tech Elevator’s Coding Bootcamp. She developed her skills quickly, and was able to use our job search guidance to land her first position. She now works for Dart Container as an associate software developer, helping to fix software issues and implement new technologies.

Dan Schnelzer: Welder to Software Developer

While Dan enjoyed his work as a welder, he knew the physical nature of the profession would take its toll on his body.

He discovered that a coworker’s son had recently graduated from Tech Elevator’s Coding Bootcamp and decided to give it a try.

He found the program to be challenging yet engaging, and now has in-demand skills needed by numerous organizations. He currently works remotely for UnitedHealth Group, where he thrives at building apps and creating technology innovations.

You can join Abigail and Dan as a successful Tech Elevator graduate. Start the admissions process now by completing a simple aptitude test today!

Written by Vinny Sanfillipo, Senior Director, Career Development