Chapter 1: The Reality of Breaking into Tech

In recent years, I have experienced a diverse journey in the technology sector: I’ve worked as a freelancer with startups, established two tech enterprises, and currently serve as a tech consultant for Fortune 500 companies. This path is becoming increasingly common, as many individuals are now choosing non-traditional routes to enter the tech field.

What I find particularly noteworthy is that I achieved all this without writing a single line of code. My knowledge of programming is limited to engaging in meaningful conversations with those who are proficient in it.

Every time I encounter a post on social media suggesting that coding is a prerequisite for a successful tech career, I can’t help but feel exasperated. Such advice is outdated and misleading, especially given the current technological landscape, which is continuously evolving and becoming more accessible to those who didn’t grow up with computers.

A widely recognized Venn diagram illustrates the three essential components of any tech product or business:

Technology is just one aspect of this diagram. Numerous opportunities exist in the other two areas, and new non-technical tech roles are emerging daily, emphasizing the significance of other essential skills for developing and maintaining technology.

When I speak with individuals from liberal arts backgrounds who are interested in tech, they often express uncertainty about where to begin. “I genuinely don’t know how to start,” is a common sentiment.

Having a background in graphic design, which stemmed from my love for comic books, made my transition into UX design somewhat easier, despite the fact that the UX industry was still in its infancy at the time.

To navigate this transition, I recommend identifying “gateway jobs” that can make the shift less intimidating. Here are examples of how various fields can translate into tech roles: - Psychology → UX Research - Graphic Design → UX or UI Design - Creative Writing → UX Writing/Content Design - Marketing → Customer Strategy/Growth Hacking - Customer Service → Customer Experience - Business Studies → Operations

Finding these entry points is just the beginning. Once you identify a suitable path, it’s crucial to explore the specific skills required for that role. Reviewing job descriptions across different companies can reveal that you may already possess more qualifications than you thought.

After identifying your skill gaps, the real excitement begins. Whatever skill you wish to acquire, there are numerous resources available online. Many platforms, like Skillshare, Udemy, and General Assembly, offer self-paced courses that can fit your schedule.

The future looks promising for those without technical skills who seek the flexibility and opportunities available in the tech industry. By focusing on addressing your non-technical skill gaps, you’ll be better equipped to make a successful transition.

How the Heck Do You Get Into Tech? aims to make a tech career accessible to everyone. We begin by sharing experiences from individuals who have successfully transitioned into the field. Subscribe to our publication to read interviews and follow our journey on Medium.

Chapter 2: Embracing New Perspectives

The video titled "Why 'Learn to Code' is Outdated Advice" sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding the need for coding skills in tech careers, emphasizing that there are many pathways into the industry for non-technical individuals.