How I Found My Unexpected Path into the Tech World

As someone who never had a technical background, the idea of working in the tech industry seemed completely out of reach. Throughout high school and university, I focused on social science programs, never once considering a career in technology.

In my mind, tech gigs were reserved for the physics and mathematics students, the ones who seemed to effortlessly navigate the world of algorithms and coding. I didn’t belong to that tribe, so I never even entertained the thought of pursuing a career in tech. Little did I know that my perception would soon be shattered.

Despite not actively pursuing a career in tech, I found myself constantly drawn to the amazing web products that were being created using technology. It was like witnessing magic unfold before my eyes. This fascination kept me around the tech world, even though I didn’t see myself as a part of it.

During my time in university, a friend and I started a radio program called “Digital Age.” We covered everything from tech tips and tricks to the latest tech news. We even had panel discussions about the hottest topics in the tech world. This experience only fueled my curiosity further.

It was during this time that I realized I wasn’t alone in my belief that tech was an exclusive field reserved for those with a strong science background. But here’s the thing: tech is not just for the scientifically inclined. Sure, there are highly scientific niches within the tech industry that require complex mathematical calculations, but there’s also a place for non-techies like me.

Careers like product design, product analysis, sales development, and product management are all examples of tech roles that don’t necessarily require coding skills. They are in high demand and offer exciting opportunities for those without a technical background.

My journey into tech began when I landed a job at a software company as a public relations officer. While I wasn’t directly involved in the technical aspects of the work, I was surrounded by brilliant engineers who continuously amazed me with their software skills. Witnessing their work firsthand inspired me to explore the world of tech even further.

Unfortunately, the company eventually faced insolvency, and I found myself venturing into graphic design. I learned various design tools and started creating flyers, posters, and banners for clients. It was during this time that a friend introduced me to UI/UX design, which felt like a natural progression from graphic design.

I instantly fell in love with the niche and decided to take a certified course on Coursera. I immersed myself in videos, books, and articles on product design, spending countless hours designing website interfaces and mobile applications. As my portfolio grew, I began seeking freelance gigs for small projects within my local community.

But my journey didn’t stop there. I soon discovered web development, which seemed like a perfect addition to my skill set as a product designer. The more I delved into these two tech niches, the more excited I became about the possibilities they offered. I made significant progress and met incredible people at my software engineering school, Rebase (but that’s a story for another article).

Of course, this journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Learning new skills and navigating the tech world can be daunting at times. However, the benefits and rewards that come with these skills are immeasurable.

So if you’re considering a career in tech, don’t let your lack of a technical or science background hold you back. There is a place for you in this ever-evolving industry. Embrace the journey and dive in headfirst because the world is going digital, and it’s a journey worth taking.