The tech industry is expanding at an unprecedented rate, with over 3 million jobs currently in the sector in the UK alone.
And with the UK Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan outlining strategies to create more jobs in the AI space, now is the time to look at a career in tech.
Yet, despite this surge, women still represent only 29% of the STEM workforce in the UK. This gap presents a huge opportunity for women to start something new and enter the tech scene, especially with AI and machine learning specialist jobs increasing by 30% by 2028.
Changing your career can be quite daunting and you might not know where to start but these tips are designed to offer simple ideas to help you get started. So, how can more women enter the tech world and start developing the skills needed to thrive in this fast-paced industry?
Join user groups and forums
User groups and online forums are a great place to start. These communities are treasure troves for discovering different tech areas and figuring out what piques your interest.
Platforms like Linkedin, Google Developer Groups, GitHub communities, and Stack Overflow allow you to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about AI, software development, cloud computing, and more. User groups are hubs of shared learning, offering insights, support, and networking opportunities.
By immersing yourself in these networks, you’ll have access to valuable educational resources and the chance to meet professionals already working in tech. It’s a great way to explore different tech fields before committing to one.
Utilise your transferable skills
Think you need a computer science degree to get into tech? Think again. Many of the skills you already have are perfect for tech roles.
Transferable skills, such as problem-solving, communication, project management, and organisation, are essential in tech. Problem-solving is actually at the centre of the industry, whether you’re debugging software, refining AI algorithms, or improving user experiences.
Communication is also key. Whether you’re explaining technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders or collaborating with teams, roles like UX design, software development, or product management rely on clear communication to drive success.
So, even if you don’t have a formal tech background, your existing skills could make you an excellent fit for a variety of roles.
Take free courses
You don’t need to spend a fortune to start learning tech. There are numerous free online courses to help you gain the qualifications you need.
Platforms like the National Careers Service, LinkedIn Learning, and specialised programs like Founders & Coders or Code First Girls offer free resources to get you started. From coding and web development to data analysis and AI, these courses let you learn at your own pace and earn certifications that can enhance your CV.
In tech, continuous learning is the norm and is needed to keep up with the rapid pace of tech development. These courses provide a solid foundation and help you determine which areas of tech spark your interest, giving you the skills to start your journey.
Apply for apprenticeships
Internships and apprenticeships are a fantastic way to gain practical experience and make valuable connections. Many companies, including ANS, offer apprenticeship programs specifically designed for those with little or no tech experience.
Whether it’s an apprenticeship or an internship, these give you the opportunity to learn on the job while gaining qualifications that will boost your career prospects. At ANS, our Academy apprenticeship programme focuses on investing in young talent from a variety of backgrounds, so you can gain the skills with the skills you need to succeed in tech. This hands-on experience allows you to apply your learning in real-world scenarios and build your professional network.
Attend industry events
In tech, networking is crucial. Attending industry events like meet-ups, hackathons, or conferences provides a chance to stay up to date with industry trends, while also connecting with people already working in the space.
These events are excellent for finding mentors, meeting potential employers, and collaborating with peers. Hackathons, in particular, are great for developing problem-solving skills and working on real-life tech challenges with a team.
By taking these steps, you’ll not only build the technical and transferable skills needed for a successful career in tech but also immerse yourself in the fast-moving world of innovation.
Get ready for your tech career
If you’re thinking about pursuing a career in tech, there’s never been a better time to start. The industry is expanding rapidly, creating more opportunities than ever before.
By joining tech communities, leveraging your transferable skills, exploring free learning resources, and attending industry events, you can build a strong foundation and confidently embark on your journey into tech.
Remember, everyone’s path into the industry is unique, what matters is that you keep exploring, keep learning, and enter a career that enables you to thrive.
