Considering a Career Shift to DevOps After Years in Project Management

Making the switch from project management to DevOps could be quite the leap, especially since most people in DevOps have backgrounds in development or systems engineering. It might be a good idea to start by learning the basics of coding and system administration first. A friend of mine transitioned successfully by beginning with Linux and learning tools like Git and Docker, before diving into CI/CD practices. Maybe try to build a small project for hands-on experience; that could really help you understand the technical side better!

Honestly, if you're starting right from a project management background, you might find it challenging to break into DevOps without any prior technical experience. Many people in the field come from systems administration or software engineering backgrounds. If you're committed, consider getting hands-on with some of the fundamentals like Linux commands, cloud services (AWS is a good start), and automation tools. Also, don't underestimate the competition—you’ll be facing people with existing DevOps experience, too.

Transitioning to DevOps is definitely possible, but be prepared for a steep learning curve. Since you've been in PM roles, you may need to start at a junior level and get your hands dirty with the tech. It’s not just about knowing how to manage projects; you'll need a solid base in coding (like Python and Bash), infrastructure management, and even some networking basics. My advice? Try to engage in some open source projects. That way, you can build your skills while showcasing them to potential employers.