| Topic Name: |
Career switch in my late 30's, Imperative that I get it right! |
| Message Name: |
Similar Situation - Need Advice |
| Date Posted: |
02/03/2000 |
| In Reply To: |
Jonathan,
I think you have received solid advice so I'll just add my two cents. You need to keep an eye on the "business." The technology, especially for someone with your focus, is a tool. Cisco and companies like it are good hardware/software environments and likely to remain relevant, but so is IBM and AS/400 configuration/support is not a booming career track.
The installed base of communication & computer systems is not getting swapped-out like a corrupt hard drive. Pick a company that will remain relevant, but also pick one that will keep you current. Don't hang your hat on a product-line and don't feel you have to learn the "new stuff" on the sly.
The blistering pace of technological change makes "keeping your skills fresh" a virtual joke so ask prospective employers about their training and development. You have the credibility so be sure to maintain your life-long learning interests. It will keep you relevant. |
| Message: |
Since Johnathan was able to receive such good advice, I thought I would continue this thread and try myself.
I too am trying to make a career change in my mid 30's. I am a 36 year old female with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering. My degree concentration was in Computer Engineering.
I've spent the last 12 years working my way up the ladder from rung #1 through the Utility, Manufacturing and Controls ranks. I've lived and worked all over the U.S. and my latest achievement was as a Corporate level Project Manager in San Francisco with an Energy Services provider.
I just recently moved back to my home state and decided to try to enter the High Tech arena as an IT Project Manager and I'm not having any luck.
Just recently I interviewed with Compuware Corporation where they told me that my PM experience was "too light" and therefore were not interested in me. However, during my interviews I learned that I had already performed many of the duties and functions that one of my interviewer's described as his job - he was a Director there. It was also implied to me by Compuware that it is almost impossible to get an IT PM job without having spent years and years of writing code etc.
Is this the norm? Should I discontinue my desire to switch over to IT? I have read so many articles about these successful people who get into IT without even having a technical background - at least I have that.
Thanks so much!
MSB
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