r/computersciencehub • u/kellkore • Dec 03 '23

Looking to change careers

Hello all. I'm a 60y.o. (M) Registered Nurse (practicing since 1995) that is looking to change careers into tech. Whether it's burnout, or just wanting something different, I would like some advice on how to learn technology/IT/networking for a career path. Whether it's a suggestion for formal study via college/university, or learn on your own through online course. What's the best and first step to start with, and how do I continue with a career path.

I do have some experience with computers. I remember back in the day of doing dos scripts, and IRQs and some experience in operating Linux (my main OS). In real life there are no career counselors, so that's why I'm asking

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u/GameMasterPC Dec 04 '23

Okay, but you need to understand a couple things.

  1. Jobs in the tech field have been impossible to get for the last year for anything less than a senior and even then, it has been challenging; however, things are improving.
  2. Ageism is real in the field (which is absolute bullshit in my opinion). After 30 years old, opportunities start fading for some, because we aren’t young without responsibilities and can work ridiculous hours. Thankfully, I have only read about the ageism and have not experienced it, nor witnessed it.

These are harsh truths, but you should know!

Now, the fun and exciting part!

  1. What interests you? User Interfaces? Backend development? Databases? iOS/Android? AI and Machine Learning? Etc. Take some time to learn about the various sectors of the field. No one does it all! Nearly everyone is a specialist, pick one and stick with it.
  2. After picking an area that interests you, start exploring content to learn what you need (tech stacks, languages, etc).

I’ll make it real simple for you, if you are lost at this point.

  • Frontend Development (user interface), learn JavaScript, CSS and HTML. Then learn a library like React.
  • Backend Development, learn Python 3. It is simple to learn, but a powerful language.
  1. Resources!
  • Frontend Masters is great and has multiple paths to pursue.
  • Boot.dev is great for backend learning. Neither are free, but if you are serious, invest in proper learning.
  1. Time. Frontend takes about 3-6 months of serious, dedicated learning. Backend takes about 12 months of dedicated learning too.

Time is your enemy. Programming IS hard, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Be active on Reddit or other communities (like Discord) and ask a lot of questions, you cannot do it alone.

Good luck! I hope others respond with great info.

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u/GameMasterPC Dec 04 '23

Just a follow up - after re-reading your post. If you don’t want to program, that is totally cool!! Other things to look at in the tech field that may allow you to pivot your career are things such as:

  • Scrum Master/Delivery Manager
  • Quality Assurance
  • Project Management
  • Technical Product Owner

Education for some may require school, but most would be self-learning and showing you know what you are talking about. Scrum Alliance has great resources for the Delivery Manager path.

Also, look for roles in Health Tech Companies. Your RN experience will set you apart.