Hey everyone! I'm currently working in application support for a multinational company, focusing on managing application servers, deployments, and server monitoring on a Windows Server domain. I'm planning to switch jobs and would like to move into a DevOps role. I've started learning Linux, Bash scripting, and AWS, but I'm looking for guidance from anyone who's made a similar transition. How did you leverage your previous support experience in the DevOps space, especially when answering questions about DevOps experience in interviews?
2 Answers
Absolutely, transitioning is doable! I made a similar move back in the early 2000s, and honestly, your Windows Server background is more valuable than you might think. The trick is to frame your existing experience correctly. You already handle deployments, monitor servers, and troubleshoot applications—these are core DevOps skills, just without the fancy title. Focus on learning tools like Infrastructure as Code and CI/CD pipelines. Highlight the deployment and automation aspects of your current role on your resume, even if you did them manually. In interviews, be honest about your transition but emphasize the valuable operational experience you bring to the table. Companies appreciate a candidate who understands how systems can fail! Keep up your Linux and AWS learning; you're on the right path!
I completely understand your journey! I started in tech support at an ISP back in 2007 and worked my way up through various roles until I became a Linux Specialist in 2018. I landed my first DevOps position in 2019. Just keep pushing through your learning—your support experience will definitely help you down the line!
Thanks for your words and guidance, it means a lot to me! I will give my best to follow this, is it fine if I can reach out to you in DMs?