I've been working in financial sales for years, managing a team and holding a D-level management position. Despite wanting to switch to a tech-related field, I've had little to no coding experience, aside from building my own PCs. Now, at 33, I'm considering a career change into programming, focusing on areas like AI. I'm prepared to take a pay cut for an entry-level position, since I'm currently making six figures. I'm hoping to find remote work that allows for traveling, but I'm unsure where to start with my education in coding. Have others made a similar shift? What resources should I look into?
5 Answers
Consider looking into data analysis roles as well. It combines business and tech skills, which could suit your background in finance—plus, it may be less competitive than software development.
Many have successfully switched careers after 30! Sure, your starting salary might drop, but with some experience, you can get back on track within a couple of years. Just stay persistent and adaptable.
That’s reassuring to hear! My main concern was finding opportunities because of my age.
Thanks for the suggestions! I plan to explore different programming languages and see what truly interests me. It’s about finding the right fit.
It's definitely not too late to switch careers! Just keep in mind it's a commitment. If you're aiming for a quick salary boost as soon as you graduate, that might be unrealistic. But if you're looking to learn programming for the fun and marketable skills, then go for it! Just make sure you're prepared to invest time and effort, especially if you're okay with a lower salary for a bit.
I'm already on the clock 24/7 in my current job, so I'm fine starting at a lower salary. I want to develop useful skills that I can build on later.
33 is young enough to make a change! I recommend starting with Python—it’s beginner-friendly. Work on small projects and stay consistent to improve your skills. Your experience in management can actually give you an edge in the tech world.
Would a coding boot camp be better than self-studying?
That sounds interesting! I’m not too familiar with what a data analyst does, but I'll definitely look into it.